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🔧 Kitchen Chimney Dripping Oil? Causes and Quick Fixes
Problem Overview
Sticky oil dripping from the kitchen chimney or falling back on the hob usually points to filter saturation or ducting/installation issues. Use this checklist to fix it fast.
Safety First
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!
Switch off appliances: Switch off the chimney and hob before cleaning to prevent accidents.
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!
Wear protection: Wear gloves as degreasers can irritate skin. Unplug if you'll remove filters or clean inside.
🔍 Quick Checks ⏱️ 5 minutes
1 Filter Saturation
Baffle/mesh filters look brown or blocked? If yes, clean immediately.
2 Oil Collector Tray
For auto-clean models: Is the tray full? Empty and wipe clean.
3 Chimney Tilt & Level
Ensure the unit is level; oil should drain into the tray, not back to the hob.
4 Duct Slope
Maintain a slight upward slope from hood to outside; avoid dips where oil condenses.
5 Duct Length & Bends
Keep ≤2–3 bends; excessive length/bends cause vapour condensation.
6 Cowl/Rain-cap Outside
Ensure it's present and clean to prevent back-drip from outside.
🛠️ DIY Fixes You Can Do Now
Clean Filters
Soak filters in hot water + dish soap + a spoon of baking soda for 30-40 minutes. Scrub thoroughly, rinse, and dry completely before reinstalling.
Auto-clean Cycle
Run the auto-clean cycle as per manual instructions. Empty and clean the oil tray after each cycle.
Seal Gaps
Check and reseal all duct joints with aluminum tape to prevent leaks and oil seepage.
Adjust Suction Speed
Use lower speed for simmering, high only for frying/tadka. This prevents excessive oil vapor collection.
💡 Installation Issues (Call Installer)
Wrong Height
Chimney too high or low from hob
Solution
Ideal: 24-30 inches above hob (check manual)
Incorrect Tilt
Oil draining backwards
Solution
Adjust so oil drains forward to tray
Ducting Issues
Too many bends or wrong material
Solution
Use 6-inch smooth metal duct, reduce bends
Heavy Build-up
Motor & housing need cleaning
Solution
Professional service required
🛡️ Maintenance Schedule for Indian Cooking
Baffle Filter
Clean every 2-4 weeks for heavy frying
Oil Tray
Empty every 1-2 weeks (auto-clean models)
Deep Service
Professional cleaning every 6-12 months
💡 Tip for Heavy Frying: Prefer baffle filters over mesh filters and ensure correct ducting. Regular cleaning prevents oil pooling and dripping.
📞 When to Call a Professional
🔧 Installation Issues
- • Chimney height adjustment needed
- • Ducting needs reconfiguration
- • Tilt/level correction required
- • Outdoor cowl installation
⚡ Service Required
- • Motor making unusual noise
- • Heavy grease build-up inside
- • Auto-clean function not working
- • Persistent oil dripping after cleaning
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for basic maintenance only. For electrical issues or major repairs, always consult authorized service centers. Regular maintenance extends chimney life and ensures kitchen safety.
Important Safety Reminder
If you're not comfortable with any step, or if the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact a qualified technician. Safety should always be your first priority when dealing with electrical appliances.
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