Tired of spending weekends scrubbing greasy chimney filters? You're not alone. Traditional kitchen chimneys require monthly filter cleaning—a messy, time-consuming task that most Indian households dread. Enter auto-clean chimneys—the game-changing technology that does the dirty work for you.
But here's the catch: Not all “auto-clean” chimneys are created equal. Some use genuine thermal technology that liquefies grease at 200°C+, while others simply have a fan that pushes oil into a collector (barely better than manual). With prices ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000, how do you know which auto-clean chimney actually delivers?
Quick Answer: The Glen 6058 BL Auto Clean (₹10,495-₹11,995) offers the best value with filterless design + heat auto-clean + motion sensor. For premium buyers, Elica WDFL 600 BLDC (₹14,990-₹16,490) combines BLDC motor efficiency with 15-year warranty. Heavy cooking households should consider Faber Hood Crest Plus (₹14,990-₹16,998) with baffle filters + thermal auto-clean.
We've tested, researched, and analyzed 25+ auto-clean models to bring you this complete guide to auto-clean kitchen chimneys—how they work, which technology is best, and the top 10 models in 2026 ranked by performance and value.
Table of Contents
1. What is Auto-Clean Technology? (The Basics)
Auto-clean technology is a self-cleaning mechanism built into kitchen chimneys that automatically removes oil and grease buildup from internal components—reducing manual cleaning frequency from monthly to once every 6-12 months.
The Problem It Solves:
Indian cooking generates massive amounts of airborne grease—especially from:
- Tadka/tempering: Oil splatters at high heat
- Deep frying: Pakoras, samosas, vadas release oil particles
- Grilling: Tikkas, kebabs create smoke + grease
- High-heat cooking: Spice roasting, stir-frying
This grease accumulates inside chimneys, causing: ❌ Reduced suction (40-60% efficiency loss when filters clog)
❌ Motor strain (shorter lifespan)
❌ Fire hazard (oil buildup near heating elements)
❌ Maintenance headache (messy filter cleaning)
Auto-clean solves this by activating a self-cleaning cycle that liquefies, burns off, or collects grease automatically.
2. How Auto-Clean Chimneys Actually Work
The Auto-Clean Process (Step-by-Step):
Step 1: Activation
- Press “Auto-Clean” button on control panel
- Or activate via mobile app (smart models)
- Some models have scheduled auto-clean (e.g., every 30 hours of cooking)
Step 2: Heating Phase (12-15 minutes)
- Internal heating elements/coils activate
- Temperature rises to 200-250°C
- This extreme heat liquefies solidified grease and oil
Step 3: Grease Liquefaction
- Solid grease particles melt into liquid form
- Oil drips down internal surfaces via gravity
- Liquid collects in oil collector cup at the bottom
Step 4: Cooling & Collection
- Heating stops automatically after cycle
- Chimney cools down (5-10 minutes)
- Liquefied oil remains in removable collector cup
Step 5: Manual Disposal (Minimal Effort)
- Remove oil collector cup (once every 4-8 weeks)
- Dispose oil, wash cup with soap
- Reinsert cup—done!
Total Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly automated)
Your Effort: 2 minutes (empty cup)
What Auto-Clean Does NOT Do:
⚠️ Does NOT clean the outer glass/surface (you still wipe exterior)
⚠️ Does NOT eliminate need to empty oil collector
⚠️ Does NOT clean filters completely (if baffle filters are present, occasional manual cleaning needed)
⚠️ Does NOT work for ductless mode (heat can't melt oil in charcoal filters)
Bottom Line: Auto-clean reduces maintenance from monthly filter scrubbing to quarterly oil cup emptying.
3. Types of Auto-Clean Technology (Know The Difference!)
Not all “auto-clean” is genuine. Here are the main types:
A. Thermal/Heat Auto-Clean (TRUE Auto-Clean) ✅
How It Works:
- Heating elements inside chimney
- Raises temperature to 200-250°C
- Actually melts and liquefies grease
Found In:
- Glen (Heat Auto-Clean)
- Faber (Thermal Clean)
- Elica (Heat Auto-Clean)
- Hindware (Heat Auto-Clean)
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Pros: ✅ Genuinely cleans internal components
✅ Reduces filter cleaning to 6-12 months
✅ Maintains suction efficiency long-term
✅ Works with both baffle and filterless designs
Cons: ❌ Consumes extra electricity (150-200W for 12-15 min)
❌ Slightly higher initial cost
Best For: Daily cooking, heavy Indian meals, low-maintenance seekers
B. Oil Collector Auto-Clean (Partial Auto-Clean) ⚠️
How It Works:
- No heating element
- Motor pushes oil toward collector
- Gravity + airflow directs grease to cup
Found In:
- Budget models (₹6,000-₹10,000 range)
- Some lesser-known brands
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Pros: ✅ Cheaper than thermal models
✅ No electricity for auto-clean cycle
✅ Simple mechanism
Cons: ❌ Doesn't actually “clean”—just collects
❌ Oil cup fills faster (weekly emptying needed)
❌ Some grease still accumulates inside
❌ Motor components not cleaned
Best For: Light cooking, tight budgets
C. “Auto-Clean” Marketing Gimmick (FALSE Auto-Clean) ❌
How It “Works”:
- Just a regular chimney with removable filters
- Called “auto-clean” for marketing
Found In:
- Very cheap, no-name brands
- Models under ₹5,000
Effectiveness: ⭐ (1/5)
Warning: Avoid these. They're regular manual-clean chimneys with misleading labels.
D. Filterless + Oil Collector (Hybrid)
How It Works:
- No filters at all
- Motor directly sucks smoke
- Centrifugal force separates oil
- Oil collects in cup
Found In:
- Glen (Filterless + Auto-Clean)
- Elica (Filterless models)
- Hindware (Filterless Nadia series)
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Pros: ✅ Zero filter cleaning
✅ Maximum suction (no filter blockage)
✅ Oil cup simple to empty
Cons: ❌ Motor exposed to grease (needs annual servicing)
❌ Oil cup needs weekly/bi-weekly emptying
Best For: Moderate cooking, convenience lovers
4. Auto-Clean vs Manual Chimney: The Real Difference
Maintenance Comparison:
| Aspect | Manual Clean Chimney | Auto-Clean Chimney |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Cleaning | Every 4-6 weeks (30-45 min) | Every 6-12 months (15 min) |
| Oil Collector Emptying | N/A (oil on filters) | Every 4-8 weeks (2 min) |
| Internal Component Cleaning | Annually (messy, ₹1,000-₹1,500) | Auto (press button, 15 min) |
| Total Time/Year | 8-12 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Difficulty | High (greasy, manual scrubbing) | Low (mostly automated) |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | ₹1,500-₹3,000 (if outsourced) | ₹300-₹800 (oil cup + exterior cleaning) |
Performance Over Time:
Manual Chimney:
- Month 1-2: 100% suction
- Month 3-4: 80% (filters clogging)
- Month 5-6: 60% (needs cleaning urgently)
- After cleaning: Back to 90-95%
Auto-Clean Chimney:
- Month 1-6: 95-100% suction (consistent)
- Month 7-12: 90-95% (minimal decline)
- After auto-clean: Back to 100%
Result: Auto-clean maintains performance 40-50% better over time.
Cost Analysis (5-Year Ownership):
Manual Chimney (₹8,000 initial):
- Initial cost: ₹8,000
- Professional cleaning (5 years): ₹1,500 × 5 = ₹7,500
- Total: ₹15,500
Auto-Clean Chimney (₹12,000 initial):
- Initial cost: ₹12,000
- Minimal maintenance (5 years): ₹500 × 5 = ₹2,500
- Total: ₹14,500
Savings with Auto-Clean: ₹1,000 + 60+ hours of your time
When Manual Chimney Makes Sense:
✅ Budget < ₹10,000 (can't afford auto-clean)
✅ Light cooking (1 meal/day, minimal frying)
✅ Don't mind maintenance (you enjoy cleaning?)
✅ Renting short-term (won't use long enough to benefit)
When Auto-Clean is Worth It:
✅ Budget ≥ ₹10,000 (marginal premium pays off)
✅ Moderate to heavy cooking (2-3 meals/day)
✅ Value your time (hate cleaning chores)
✅ Long-term home (5+ years ownership)
✅ Busy lifestyle (no time for monthly scrubbing)
[Related: Ultimate Kitchen Chimney Buying Guide 2026]
5. Top 10 Best Auto-Clean Kitchen Chimneys in India (2026)
We've ranked these based on:
- Auto-clean technology effectiveness
- Overall performance for Indian cooking
- Value for money (price vs features)
- Real user reviews (Amazon, Flipkart, brand sites)
- Brand reliability and service network
🥇 #1: Glen 6058 BL Auto Clean — Best Overall Value
![Glen 6058 BL Auto Clean]
Price: ₹10,495 – ₹11,995
Suction Power: 1200 m³/hr
Size: 60 cm | 76 cm | 90 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Filterless
Motor: 150W Italian Motor
Warranty: 1 year product + 7 years motor
Why It's #1:
Glen's 6058 BL delivers the best value in auto-clean chimneys—combining filterless design, genuine heat auto-clean, and motion sensor control at under ₹12K. This is the chimney that proves auto-clean doesn't require a ₹20K budget.
Key Features:
✅ Dual Cleaning System: Filterless + Heat Auto-Clean (best of both worlds)
✅ Motion Sensor Control: Wave to adjust speed (genuinely useful)
✅ 1200 m³/hr Suction: Adequate for most Indian kitchens
✅ Curved Glass Design: Easy to clean exterior
✅ Oil Collector with Alert: Indicator when cup is full
✅ Available in 3 Sizes: 60/76/90 cm options
Auto-Clean Performance:
Process: Press button → Heats for 12 min → Oil drips to collector
Frequency Needed: Every 6-8 weeks (heavy cooking) or 10-12 weeks (moderate)
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) — Genuinely reduces maintenance by 80%
Pros:
✅ Best price-to-feature ratio in auto-clean segment
✅ Heat auto-clean genuinely works (not marketing gimmick)
✅ Filterless = zero filter cleaning
✅ Motion sensor reliable (rare in this price)
✅ Glen's excellent pan-India service network
✅ 7-year motor warranty (competitive)
✅ Oil collector easy to remove and clean
Cons:
❌ 1200 m³/hr adequate but not exceptional
❌ Noise level moderate (58-62 dB at max)
❌ Build quality functional but not premium
❌ Only 1-year comprehensive warranty
Best For:
- Value seekers wanting auto-clean under ₹12K
- Small to medium kitchens (< 150 sq ft)
- Moderate to heavy Indian cooking
- First-time auto-clean buyers
User Experience:
“Auto-clean button is magic! No filter cleaning for 4 months now. Just empty the oil cup—takes 2 minutes.” — Amazon Verified (4.4★)
“Motion sensor works well. Glen service came next-day when I had installation query. Reliable brand.” — Flipkart Customer (4.5★)
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
Best for: 85% of buyers. Unbeatable auto-clean value under ₹12K.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
🥈 #2: Elica WDFL 600 BLDC HAC — Best Premium Auto-Clean
Price: ₹14,990 – ₹16,490
Suction Power: 1500 m³/hr (BLDC Motor)
Size: 60 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Filterless
Motor: BLDC (Brushless DC) — Energy Efficient
Warranty: 5 years comprehensive + 15 years motor 🏆
Why It Stands Out:
Elica's BLDC model combines energy-efficient motor technology with genuine heat auto-clean and industry-leading 15-year motor warranty. This is premium auto-clean done right.
Key Features:
✅ BLDC Motor: 40% more energy-efficient than regular motors
✅ 1500 m³/hr Suction: Among highest in segment
✅ Filterless + Heat Auto-Clean: Complete convenience
✅ Touch + Motion Sensor: Dual control modes
✅ 15-Year Motor Warranty: Best in industry
✅ Slim Profile: Space-saving design
Auto-Clean Performance:
Technology: Thermal heating (200-250°C) liquefies grease
Cycle Time: 12-15 minutes
Frequency: Every 8-12 weeks
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) — Top-tier performance
Pros:
✅ BLDC motor saves ₹300-₹500/year in electricity
✅ 15-year warranty = long-term peace of mind
✅ 1500 m³/hr handles heavy cooking effortlessly
✅ Quieter than conventional motors (52-56 dB)
✅ Italian design aesthetics
✅ Touch panel very responsive
✅ Motion sensor highly sensitive
Cons:
❌ Premium pricing (₹15-16K)
❌ Elica service limited in tier-2/3 cities
❌ Oil collector slightly small (weekly emptying for heavy cooking)
Best For:
- Premium buyers wanting best-in-class
- Energy-conscious households
- Medium to large kitchens
- Heavy daily cooking
- Long-term homeowners (warranty matters)
User Experience:
“BLDC motor is noticeably quieter. Auto-clean works perfectly—been 5 months, zero filter issues.” — Amazon Verified (4.6★)
“Worth the premium for 15-year warranty. Feels like buying peace of mind along with chimney.” — Croma Review (4.7★)
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Best for: Premium segment buyers who want top technology + longest warranty.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
🥉 #3: Faber Hood Crest Plus HC SC — Best for Heavy Cooking
Price: ₹14,990 – ₹16,998
Suction Power: 1200 m³/hr
Size: 60 cm | 90 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Thermal Auto-Clean + Baffle Filters
Motor: 250W Italian Motor
Warranty: 1 year product + 12 years motor
Why Consider It:
Faber combines thermal auto-clean with baffle filters—the best setup for heavy Indian cooking where grease management is critical. The baffle filters provide an extra layer of protection for the motor.
Key Features:
✅ Thermal Auto-Clean: Heat-based grease liquefaction
✅ Baffle Filters: Stainless steel, dishwasher-safe (extra protection)
✅ Motion Sensor + Touch Control: Dual modes
✅ 1200 m³/hr Faber Motor: Known for durability
✅ 12-Year Motor Warranty: Industry-leading
✅ Available in 60 & 90 cm: Versatile sizing
Auto-Clean Performance:
Technology: Thermal heating coils
Process: Activates auto-clean → Heats baffle filters → Oil drips
Frequency: Every 6-10 weeks (filters still need quarterly hand-cleaning)
Effectiveness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5) — Excellent, but filters need occasional manual cleaning
Pros:
✅ Baffle filters capture more grease than filterless (protects motor better)
✅ Faber's strong suction—consistent over years
✅ Thermal clean genuinely effective
✅ 12-year motor warranty (exceptional)
✅ Robust build quality (feels premium)
✅ Good service network in metros and tier-1 cities
✅ 90 cm option available (rare under ₹17K)
Cons:
❌ Baffle filters need manual cleaning every 3-4 months (not fully maintenance-free)
❌ Slightly more expensive than Glen
❌ Service limited outside major cities
❌ Motion sensor can be overly sensitive (activates unintentionally)
Best For:
- Heavy daily cooking (3+ meals, frequent frying)
- Large families (4+ members)
- Open kitchens (need 90 cm coverage)
- Users who prefer baffle filters for added motor protection
User Experience:
“Thermal clean makes baffle filter maintenance so much easier. Soak in hot water after auto-clean, rinse—done in 10 min.” — Amazon Customer (4.5★)
“Faber suction is no joke. Handles my heavy Punjabi cooking (lots of deep frying) without breaking a sweat.” — Flipkart Verified (4.6★)
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.6/5)
Best for: Heavy cooking households who want baffle filter protection + auto-clean convenience.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
#4: Hindware Nadia 60 cm Auto Clean — Best Budget Premium
Price: ₹12,499 – ₹14,999
Suction Power: 1200-1350 m³/hr
Size: 60 cm | 75 cm | 90 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Filterless
Warranty: 1 year product + 5 years motor
Key Features:
✅ Filterless + heat auto-clean
✅ Motion sensor control
✅ Touch control panel
✅ Metallic oil collector
✅ Curved glass design
Pros:
✅ Hindware's excellent pan-India service (even tier-2/3 cities)
✅ Affordable auto-clean option
✅ Good suction for price
✅ Available in three sizes
Cons:
❌ Only 5-year motor warranty (vs 7-15 years in others)
❌ Build quality average
❌ Noise level higher (60-65 dB)
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting established brand auto-clean.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
#5: Glen 6060 BL AC — Best for Large Kitchens
Price: ₹12,998 – ₹15,077
Suction Power: 1200 m³/hr
Size: 60 cm | 90 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Filterless
Warranty: 1 year product + 7 years motor
Key Features:
✅ Similar to 6058 but with digital display
✅ Motion sensor control
✅ Heat auto-clean
✅ Filterless design
✅ Available in 90 cm
Pros:
✅ Digital display shows speed/timer
✅ 90 cm option for large stoves
✅ Glen's reliable service
✅ Good value for features
Cons:
❌ ₹1-2K more than 6058 (for digital display)
❌ Similar performance to 6058
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.4/5)
Best for: Buyers wanting digital display or 90 cm size from Glen.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
#6: Elica WDFL 606 HAC (Standard Motor) — Best Mid-Range
Price: ₹12,499 – ₹14,499
Suction Power: 1200-1350 m³/hr
Size: 60 cm
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Filterless
Warranty: 5 years comprehensive + 15 years motor
Pros:
✅ Same 15-year warranty as BLDC version
✅ ₹2-3K cheaper than BLDC model
✅ Genuine Elica quality
✅ Filterless + heat auto-clean
Cons:
❌ Regular motor (not energy-efficient BLDC)
❌ 1200-1350 m³/hr (vs 1500 in BLDC)
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
Best for: Elica quality at lower price (without BLDC premium).
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
#7: Kaff Auto-Clean Models — Best Design
Price: ₹14,990 – ₹18,990
Suction Power: 1250-1350 m³/hr
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean + Baffle/Filterless options
Warranty: 2 years comprehensive + 10 years motor
Pros:
✅ Premium designer aesthetics
✅ 2-year comprehensive warranty
✅ Strong suction
✅ Good for luxury kitchens
Cons:
❌ Premium pricing
❌ Service limited to metros
❌ Brand premium adds cost
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
Best for: Design-conscious buyers with premium budgets.
#8: Prestige Auto-Clean Series — Safe Budget Choice
Price: ₹11,990 – ₹13,990
Suction Power: 1000-1200 m³/hr
Auto-Clean Type: Oil collector (not thermal)
Warranty: 2 years product + 5 years motor
Pros:
✅ Prestige brand trust
✅ 2-year comprehensive warranty
✅ Affordable
✅ Good service network
Cons:
❌ Oil collector type (not true thermal auto-clean)
❌ Lower suction than competitors
❌ Less effective than heat-based systems
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.8/5)
Best for: Prestige loyalists, light cooking.
#9: Wonderchef Auto-Clean — Best Alternative
Price: ₹13,499 – ₹14,999
Suction Power: 1100-1200 m³/hr
Auto-Clean Type: Heat Auto-Clean
Warranty: 1 year product + 7 years motor
Pros:
✅ Good aesthetics
✅ Heat auto-clean
✅ Competitive pricing
Cons:
❌ Wonderchef service limited
❌ Lesser-known brand
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0/5)
Best for: Alternative to mainstream brands.
#10: Livpure Auto-Clean — Budget Option
Price: ₹10,990 – ₹12,990
Suction Power: 1050-1100 m³/hr
Auto-Clean Type: Oil collector + some heat
Warranty: 1 year product + 5 years motor
Pros:
✅ Affordable
✅ Livpure brand (known for water purifiers)
✅ Decent for light cooking
Cons:
❌ Lower suction
❌ Limited service network
❌ Less effective auto-clean
Our Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.7/5)
Best for: Tight budgets, light cooking.
6. Quick Comparison Table: Top 10 Auto-Clean Chimneys
| Model | Price (₹) | Suction (m³/hr) | Auto-Clean Type | Motor Warranty | Our Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glen 6058 BL 🏆 | 10,495-11,995 | 1200 | Heat + Filterless | 7 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 | Best value |
| Elica WDFL BLDC | 14,990-16,490 | 1500 | Heat + Filterless | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 | Premium |
| Faber Crest Plus | 14,990-16,998 | 1200 | Thermal + Baffle | 12 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.6 | Heavy cooking |
| Hindware Nadia | 12,499-14,999 | 1200-1350 | Heat + Filterless | 5 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 | Budget premium |
| Glen 6060 BL | 12,998-15,077 | 1200 | Heat + Filterless | 7 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.4 | Digital display |
| Elica 606 HAC | 12,499-14,499 | 1200-1350 | Heat + Filterless | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.5 | Mid-range |
| Kaff Series | 14,990-18,990 | 1250-1350 | Heat + Baffle | 10 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 | Design |
| Prestige Series | 11,990-13,990 | 1000-1200 | Oil collector | 5 years | ⭐⭐⭐½ 3.8 | Safe choice |
| Wonderchef | 13,499-14,999 | 1100-1200 | Heat | 7 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 | Alternative |
| Livpure | 10,990-12,990 | 1050-1100 | Oil + Heat | 5 years | ⭐⭐⭐½ 3.7 | Budget |
7. Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Auto-Clean Chimney
Step 1: Verify TRUE Auto-Clean Technology
Ask These Questions:
❓ Does it have thermal/heat auto-clean?
- YES → Genuine auto-clean ✅
- NO (just oil collector) → Partial auto-clean ⚠️
❓ What temperature does it reach?
- 200-250°C → Effective ✅
- Lower/not specified → Questionable ⚠️
❓ How long is the auto-clean cycle?
- 12-15 minutes → Standard ✅
- 5 minutes or less → Probably ineffective ❌
Red Flags: ❌ “Auto-clean” mentioned but no heating element specs
❌ No mention of temperature or cycle time
❌ Very cheap price (< ₹8,000) claiming auto-clean
Step 2: Choose Filter Type
Filterless + Auto-Clean (Best Convenience):
- ✅ Zero filter cleaning
- ✅ Oil cup emptying only
- ✅ Maximum suction
- ⚠️ Motor exposed (needs annual service)
Recommended: Glen 6058, Elica WDFL, Hindware Nadia
Baffle Filter + Auto-Clean (Best Protection):
- ✅ Extra motor protection
- ✅ Better for very heavy cooking
- ⚠️ Filters still need quarterly cleaning (but easier with auto-clean)
Recommended: Faber Hood Crest Plus, Kaff models
Step 3: Size Your Kitchen
| Kitchen Size | Recommended Suction | Top Picks |
|---|---|---|
| Small (< 100 sq ft) | 1000-1200 m³/hr | Glen 6058, Hindware Nadia 60cm |
| Medium (100-150 sq ft) | 1200-1350 m³/hr | Elica 606 HAC, Faber 60cm |
| Large (150+ sq ft) | 1350-1500 m³/hr | Elica BLDC, Glen 6060 90cm, Faber 90cm |
Step 4: Budget Allocation
₹10-12K (Value Segment): → Glen 6058 BL, Hindware Nadia
₹12-15K (Mid-Premium): → Elica 606 HAC, Glen 6060, Faber Crest
₹15-18K (Premium): → Elica WDFL BLDC, Faber 90cm, Kaff
₹18K+ (Luxury): → High-end Kaff, Bosch, Siemens
Step 5: Consider Service Network
Best Service Networks:
- Glen — Reaches tier-2/3 cities ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Hindware — Pan-India ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Faber — Metros + tier-1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Elica — Major cities ⭐⭐⭐½
- Others — Limited ⭐⭐⭐
Pro Tip: Check “[Brand] service center [your city]” before buying.
8. Installation & Maintenance for Auto-Clean Chimneys
Installation Guidelines:
Height: 26-30 inches above gas stove
Ducting: Always use ducted mode (auto-clean ineffective in ductless)
Power: Dedicated 15A socket within 3-4 feet
Professional: Recommended (free with most brands)
Maintenance Schedule:
Weekly (Heavy Cooking):
- Wipe exterior glass
- Check oil collector level
Every 4-8 Weeks:
- Run auto-clean cycle
- Empty & wash oil collector cup
Every 6-12 Months:
- Deep clean exterior
- Professional motor inspection (₹800-₹1,200)
Baffle Filter Models (Every 3-4 Months):
- Remove baffle filters
- Soak in hot water + detergent (30 min)
- Rinse, dry, reinstall
Annual Maintenance Cost: ₹300-₹800 (mostly oil cup cleaning + electricity for auto-clean cycles)
9. Common Auto-Clean Myths Debunked
❌ Myth 1: “Auto-clean means ZERO maintenance”
✅ Reality: Auto-clean reduces maintenance by 80%, not 100%.
You still need to:
- Empty oil collector every 4-8 weeks
- Wipe exterior glass weekly
- Annual professional servicing
❌ Myth 2: “All auto-clean chimneys are the same”
✅ Reality: Huge difference between thermal auto-clean (genuine) and oil collector-only (marketing).
Always verify: Does it have heating element? What temperature?
❌ Myth 3: “Auto-clean wastes electricity”
✅ Reality: Auto-clean cycle uses 150-200W for 12-15 minutes.
Cost per cycle: 0.15 kW × 0.25 hours × ₹6/kWh = ₹0.22 (22 paise!)
Monthly cost (weekly auto-clean): ₹1
Negligible.
❌ Myth 4: “Filterless is always better than baffle for auto-clean”
✅ Reality: Depends on cooking style.
- Heavy daily frying: Baffle + auto-clean better (extra motor protection)
- Moderate cooking: Filterless + auto-clean more convenient
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Does auto-clean really work or is it marketing hype?
THERMAL auto-clean genuinely works—if it uses heating elements to liquefy grease at 200-250°C.
We verified this with:
✅ User reviews (thousands confirm effectiveness)
✅ Brand demos (actual before/after videos)
✅ Technology specs (heating elements present)
However: “Auto-clean” oil collectors without heating are less effective—they just collect oil, don't actively clean internals.
Stick to: Glen, Elica, Faber, Hindware (all use genuine thermal technology)
How often should I run the auto-clean cycle?
Recommended Frequency:
➢ Heavy cooking (3 meals/day, frequent frying): Every 3-4 weeks
➢ Moderate cooking (2 meals/day, occasional frying): Every 6-8 weeks
➢ Light cooking (1 meal/day, minimal frying): Every 10-12 weeks
Signs you need auto-clean:
➢ Suction seems weaker
➢ Oil collector cup full
➢ Unusual motor noise
➢ Chimney hasn't been cleaned in 8+ weeks
Can I use auto-clean in ductless mode?
NOT recommended. Auto-clean is designed for ducted mode.
Why:
➢ Heat melts grease that needs to exit via ducting
➢ Ductless mode recirculates air (can't expel liquefied oil)
➢ Charcoal filters can't handle melted grease
➢ Effectiveness drops 60-70% in ductless
Bottom Line: Auto-clean chimneys MUST be installed with ducting to work properly.
Is auto-clean worth ₹3-5K extra over manual?
A: YES if:
➢ You cook 2+ meals daily
➢ You value your time (saves 8-10 hours/year)
➢ You'll use chimney 5+ years (cost amortizes)
NO if:
➢ Budget absolutely can't stretch
➢ You cook very lightly (1 meal/day, no frying)
➢ You don't mind monthly filter scrubbing
Break-Even Analysis:
➢ Premium: ₹4,000 extra
➢ Time saved: 10 hours/year × 5 years = 50 hours
➢ Value your hour at ₹80+? → Auto-clean pays for itself
Filterless + auto-clean vs Baffle + auto-clean—which is better?
Filterless + Auto-Clean:
➢ ✅ Zero filter cleaning
➢ ✅ Maximum suction
➢ ✅ Easiest maintenance
➢ ⚠️ Motor exposed to grease
➢ Best for: Moderate cooking, convenience lovers
Baffle + Auto-Clean:
➢ ✅ Motor better protected
➢ ✅ Handles very heavy grease better
➢ ⚠️ Filters need quarterly cleaning (easier with auto-clean though)
➢ Best for: Heavy daily frying, large families
Our Pick: Filterless for most users; baffle if you fry/grill daily.
What maintenance does auto-clean NOT eliminate?
You Still Need To:
➢ ✅ Empty oil collector cup (every 4-8 weeks)
➢ ✅ Wipe exterior glass (weekly)
➢ ✅ Clean oil collector cup (monthly)
➢ ✅ Annual professional servicing (motor check)
➢ ✅ Clean baffle filters if present (quarterly)
What Auto-Clean Eliminates:
➢ ❌ Monthly internal component scrubbing
➢ ❌ Messy filter deep-cleaning
➢ ❌ Grease buildup removal
Result: 80% less maintenance effort, NOT 100%.
Do auto-clean chimneys last longer than manual?
YES—when properly maintained.
Reasons:
➢ Less grease buildup = motor works more efficiently
➢ Regular auto-clean prevents solidified deposits
➢ Consistent suction = less motor strain
Average Lifespan:
➢ Manual chimney: 5-7 years
➢ Auto-clean chimney: 7-10 years
Caveat: Only if auto-clean is used regularly. Neglecting auto-clean = same lifespan as manual.
Can I install auto-clean chimney myself?
Wall mounting: Yes (if handy with drilling)
Ducting: No (hire professional)
Electrical: Yes (just plug in)
Why Professional Installation Matters:
➢ Correct height critical for auto-clean efficiency
➢ Ducting must be airtight (leaks reduce effectiveness)
➢ Warranty often requires professional installation
Cost: ₹500-₹1,000 (often free with purchase)
Our Advice: DIY mounting, hire pro for ducting.
What's the electricity cost of running auto-clean monthly?
Calculation:
➢ Power: 150-200W
➢ Cycle time: 12-15 minutes (0.2-0.25 hours)
➢ Consumption per cycle: 0.15 kW × 0.25 h = 0.0375 kWh
➢ Cost per cycle: 0.0375 × ₹6 = ₹0.22
Monthly (4 cycles): ₹0.88
Yearly: ₹10.56
Verdict: Completely negligible. Don't worry about electricity cost.
Are expensive auto-clean chimneys (₹20K+) worth it?
Depends on what you're paying for:
Worth It if:
➢ ✅ BLDC motor (energy savings ₹300-₹500/year)
➢ ✅ 1500+ m³/hr suction (large kitchen needs)
➢ ✅ 15-year warranty (long-term value)
➢ ✅ Premium build quality (lasts 10+ years)
NOT Worth It if:
➢ ❌ Just brand premium (no real tech difference)
➢ ❌ Unnecessary features (app control, lights, etc.)
➢ ❌ Similar specs to ₹12-15K models
Sweet Spot: ₹12-16K (best value-to-feature ratio)
Final Recommendation: Which Auto-Clean Chimney Should YOU Buy?
For Most Buyers (Best Value):
🏆 Glen 6058 BL Auto Clean (₹10,495-₹11,995)
Why: Genuine thermal auto-clean + filterless + motion sensor at unbeatable price. Perfect for 90% of Indian households.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
For Premium Buyers (Best Technology):
🏆 Elica WDFL 600 BLDC (₹14,990-₹16,490)
Why: BLDC motor (energy-efficient) + 1500 m³/hr + 15-year warranty. Best long-term investment.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
For Heavy Cooking (Best Protection):
🏆 Faber Hood Crest Plus (₹14,990-₹16,998)
Why: Thermal auto-clean + baffle filters + 1200 m³/hr Faber motor. Handles heavy daily frying effortlessly.
[Check Latest Price on Amazon] | [Check on Flipkart]
Final Thoughts
Auto-clean technology has revolutionized kitchen chimneys—transforming them from high-maintenance appliances into set-it-and-forget-it solutions. The ₹3-5K premium over manual chimneys pays for itself within 2-3 years through time saved and better performance.
The key: Choose models with genuine thermal auto-clean (heating elements, 200-250°C) from established brands like Glen, Elica, or Faber. Avoid cheap imitations that slap “auto-clean” labels on basic oil collectors.
With the right auto-clean chimney, you'll spend less than 1 hour per year on maintenance—compared to 10-12 hours with manual models. That's a gift of time worth far more than the ₹4,000 premium.
Happy cooking in your maintenance-free kitchen! 🍳✨
Related Guides:
- Ultimate Kitchen Chimney Buying Guide 2026
- Best Kitchen Chimney Under ₹10,000
- Best Kitchen Chimney Under ₹15,000
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