Choose the Right Range Hood for Your Kitchen

Explore various models and installation options for range hoods. Here are some tips and tricks to assist you in making your decision.

Ventilation Systems: Extracting or Recirculating

 One of the primary factors to consider when selecting a range hood is the ventilation system. There are two main types of hoods: ducted (extracting) and ductless (recirculating).

Ductless Hoods – Recirculating

This type of hood functions by using a charcoal filter to purify foul air, removing most grease particles and odors before reintroducing the air back into the kitchen. While simpler to install, ductless hoods are generally considered less effective than ducted hoods, as they do not extract smoke, heat, or moisture from the kitchen environment.

Ducted Hoods – Extracting

This type of hood eliminates foul air entirely by venting it outside the house through ductwork. Ducted hoods are highly favored and are regarded as the most efficient method of meeting ventilation standards outlined in the National Building Code of Canada.

Installing a ducted range hood is more complex due to the involvement of ductwork. However, once the ductwork is in place, the hood can be installed swiftly.

Discover the 5 Main Oven Hood Models

To ensure effectiveness, the hood should be positioned directly above or in close proximity to the cooktop. Thus, the placement of your cooktop will dictate the appropriate hood model for installation.

Under-Cabinet Hoods

Under-cabinet range hoods stand as the most prevalent model, available in ducted or ductless configurations. They are mounted beneath cabinets, securely held in place by them.

Chimney-Style Hoods

Also known as “pyramidal range hoods,” chimney-style hoods are rapidly gaining popularity. Wall-mount hoods are affixed directly onto the wall and typically utilize ducted ventilation. In cases where duct venting is impractical, certain models offer a recirculation system.

Island Range Hoods

Suspended above a kitchen island or peninsula, island range hoods feature an adjustable chimney to accommodate ceiling height variations. The fan can be internal or external, venting through ductwork. This type of hood generates increased air movement, requiring careful evaluation of its power.

Built-In Hoods

Designed for installation within custom-built cabinets, built-in hoods offer the option of internal or external ventilation modules. Models with exterior ventilation modules tend to operate more quietly. Built-in hoods boast high-performance capabilities, with ventilation capacities ranging from 600 to 1200 CFM.

Microwave with Integrated Hoods

Opting for a microwave with an integrated hood presents a space-saving solution compared to most other hood models.

Let’s Not Forget Specialized Kitchen Fan Models

Downdraft Range Hoods

Downdraft range hoods feature a ventilation module positioned on the side or behind the cooking area, aligning with the cooking surface. These models, known for their discreet appearance, require internal or external venting. However, they may be less effective than other hood types, as heat and odors tend to rise, and in some cases, the ventilation modules may be too distant from certain cooktop elements.

Slide-Out Range Hoods

Installed beneath a full-size kitchen cabinet, slide-out range hoods offer options for both external venting and recirculating with a charcoal filter.

Range Hood Features and Components to Look Out For

Motor Power

To select the ideal range hood for your kitchen, carefully assess the size of the space it will occupy. Range hoods are equipped with electric motors chosen based on their capacity to move air, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).

This measurement is applicable only to exterior venting systems. When determining capacity, consider both the kitchen’s volume and duct length:

• Kitchen volume: Calculate the required capacity by multiplying the kitchen’s height (H) by its surface area (W x D) to obtain the room’s volume. Multiply this figure by 10, and the result is expressed in cubic meters per hour (m3/h). For example, in a room measuring 15 m2 and 3 m high, a hood with a 450m3/h motor power is suitable. The hood should achieve 10-12 air changes per hour to effectively extract odors and fumes.
• Duct length: Longer ducts with multiple 90-degree elbows necessitate additional ventilation capacity. Refer to the following table to determine minimum capacity requirements based on duct length:
• Duct Length    CFM Capacity
• 1-15’                Up to 270
• 16-20’               270-400
• 20’                + 400 or more
• Important: For open-concept kitchens, calculate the total volume.

Sizing

Range hoods typically range in width from 24″ to 36″, with 30″ models being the most popular. This width is suitable for most electric and gas stoves. Ensure the range hood overlaps the cooking surface by 3″ on each side, especially crucial for gas ranges.

Lighting

Most range hoods feature one or more lights, providing additional illumination in the kitchen. Depending on the model, you may have incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, or LED bulbs. LED lighting is preferred for its ability to withstand heat.

Fans

Fans, typically made of plastic or metal, are located within the range hood body. While easily accessible for cleaning and maintenance, they tend to be noisy. For reduced noise levels, consider range hoods with fans placed outside the house, either in the attic or on the roof.

Filters

Filters capture grease particles before they enter the ducting, reducing fire hazards and cleaning challenges. Aluminum and baffle filters are common, while charcoal filters are used in ductless hoods to eliminate odors and grease. Ensure filters are easily removable and washable, or replaceable as needed.

Hood Body

The hood body houses various components, including filters, fans, and motors, essential for the hood’s operation and efficiency.

Other Range Hood Features to Consider

ENERGY STAR-certified range hoods consume up to 70% less energy compared to their non-certified counterparts, offering a dual benefit of reducing electricity costs and environmental impact.

Some hoods incorporate advanced features such as electronic touch controls for automatic shutoff functions and heat sensors. For instance, the Heat Sentry™ detector adjusts ventilation settings automatically if excessive heat is detected from the stovetop.

Certain models include electronic sensors that activate the hood upon detecting smoke. The suction power of the hood adjusts based on the intensity of smoke in the air and shuts off automatically when no longer needed.

Perimeter suction hoods, originally developed for commercial use, are now available for residential purposes. These hoods effectively capture peripheral odors and smoke, enhancing overall ventilation performance.

Install Your New Range Hood

Installing your new range hood is a straightforward process once the ventilation ducts are in place. The height of the hood from the stove depends on factors such as the type of cooktop, suction capacity, and the specific unit being installed. Generally, positioning the hood closer to the cooking surface improves suction and air evacuation.

Here are some general guidelines for hood installation heights:

• Lower-performing hoods should be placed 18″-24″ from the cooktop.
• Average-performing hoods are typically installed 24″-30″ from the cooktop.
• Top-performing and commercial-type hoods are commonly positioned 30″-36″ from the cooktop.
• These measurements may vary based on individual manufacturer specifications, so it’s crucial to adhere to the provided instructions.

Additional installation tips include:

• Note that the location of the exhaust opening may vary between manufacturers.
• Ensure the ducting circumference matches or exceeds that of the hood connection.
• Maintain a minimum distance of 20″ above an electric unit and 30″ above a gas range for proper installation.
• To enhance efficiency, keep the distance between the cooking surface and the hood below 30″.
• When configuring ductwork, prioritize short, straight runs with minimal turns. Prefer 45° angles over 90° angles for better air circulation if turns are necessary.
• Use a roof cap or wall cap to appropriately terminate the ducting.
• For 6″ round ducting, utilize a transition piece and seal joints with 2″ duct tape. Ensure the wall duct is prepared for easy insertion of the adaptor.
• Avoid venting into an attic to prevent moisture damage and fire hazards, as well as the attraction of insects due to expelled cooking grease.
• Choose rigid steel ducts over flexible duct pipes or corrugated metal to minimize grease buildup and reduce fire risks.

Angela Macpherson