Smoke, odors, and grease produced by cooking…
…will linger in your kitchen, resulting in unpleasant odors and poor air quality.
Adding a range hood over your cooktop will help to combat that problem.
Grease, moisture, and heat are drawn into a range hood…
…which either filters and recirculates them or directs them outside.
Good range hoods keeps the air in your home clean and improves ventilation.
“The range hood is an essential part of any kitchen. These appliances are essential for removing smoke, grease, fumes, as well as filtering the air. These appliances also provide light for daily cooking and ambiance lighting.”
Aimee Nakazawa – Cookbook Author
Let’s hear Brian’s story before moving on to the next section…
It has been four months since I purchased the range hood.
Having a big Asian family means cooking all the time and three times a day.
It isn’t that our food stinks; it is quite good, it’s just that cooking it stinks.
In the past, I have replaced the vent hood in our old house
with a top-of-the-line product from a big box store,
but it didn’t work nearly as well as this unit.
We are now ready to begin…
Most Suitable Types Of Range Hoods For You
You can choose from a variety of styles of range hoods.
Choosing the right range hood for your kitchen…
…depends on your needs and the design of your kitchen.
Wall Mount Range Hoods
Wall-mounted range hoods are mounted above your stove instead of cabinets.
Although they are typically ducted, ductless and convertible models are also available.
The chimney-like shape and exposed vent stacks give your kitchen an industrial feel.
Island Range Hoods
If you have a cooktop in your kitchen island, you need an island range hood…
…which is installed above the island or peninsula and vented through the ceiling.
Because island range hoods lack cabinets on either side…
…to aid in directing air toward the hood…
…it is recommended that they be at least 6 inches wider than your stovetop.
Under-Cabinet Range Hoods
Under-cabinet range hoods are installed on the underside of your upper cabinets.
You can either have a ducted range hood or a ductless range hood.
Ducted models take in and exhaust air through vents in the adjoining wall or ceiling.
Professional-Grade Range Hoods
For avid home cooks who seek restaurant-quality ventilation in their kitchen…
… professional-grade range hoods are ideal.
They typically feature powerful exhaust fans that can expel air at high speeds.
Microwave Range Hoods
Many over-the-range microwaves include ventilation.
In general, microwave range hoods are less powerful…
…than stand-alone range hoods and can be ducted or ductless.
Perhaps you are wondering…
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Range Hood
These factors should be taken into account…
…before choosing a range hood for your kitchen.
Even though you might assume that all range hoods function the same way…
…there are several characteristics that can affect their functionality.
Keep reading to learn about some of the most important qualities…
…to consider when shopping for a range hood.
Hood Size
If you aren’t completely redesigning your kitchen…
…you will have to make sure that your range hood fits within specific dimensions.
In general, your range hood should be at least as wide as your cooktop.
The standard width of a kitchen range is 30 inches, so most range hoods…
…on the market also measure 30 inches wide.
Although this size is suitable for most kitchens…
…those with larger ranges or custom-designed kitchens may prefer a larger model.
Ducted vs. Ductless
In order to purchase a range hood, shoppers must decide…
…whether they want a ducted or ductless model.
- Range hoods that draw air from the kitchen and vent it outdoors, called ducted (or vented) range hoods. They are effective at eliminating smoke and odors, but require ductwork and aren’t suitable for every kitchen layout.
- The air in ductless (or recirculating) range hoods is filtered and then circulated back into your home. Despite being less effective at eliminating smoke and cooking odors, they are much easier to install. The filters need to be cleaned and changed regularly in order to maintain their effectiveness. Typically, they are much less expensive than ducted range hoods.
- A convertible range hood can be used either with ducts or without, providing a versatile option. A recirculating kit is typically required to convert a ducted hood into a ductless hood.
CFM Ratio
Air exhaustion is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) for ducted range hoods.
The higher the CFM, the more powerful the range hood.
Experts recommend dividing the British thermal units (BTUs)…
…of your stovetop by 100 to determine the CFM you need in your range hood.
For example, if your range has an output of 30,000 BTU…
…you should look for a range hood with a CFM of 300.
In general, range hoods with CFMs between 300…
…and 500 will provide adequate ventilation for most kitchens.
CFM measures the speed at which air is ventilated;
…it does not measure the effectiveness of the removal or redistribution of air.
CFM is important, but it isn’t the only factor to consider.
Keep reading…
Fan Speeds
Most range hoods have between one and six speeds.
Ideally, a model with at least two speeds will allow users…
…to choose a faster speed while cooking…
…and a slower speed for after-cooking ventilation.
Manufacturers tout several speed options…
…but it isn’t really necessary to have more than three.
Features
Some range hoods have additional features.
- An exhaust timer automatically turns off the fan after a set amount of time.
- When temperature sensors detect heat, the range hood’s fan automatically turns on.
- By using LED lights on range hoods, you can save energy and replace them less often.
- Change filter indicator lights let you know when it is time to change the filter.
- Smart home systems or smartphones can connect to the Wi-Fi capability of your range hood.
Appearance
Range hoods can act as a visual focal point in your kitchen…
…due to their placement above your stovetop.
They come in a variety of finishes and can stand out…
…or blend in depending on the style of your cabinetry and fixtures.
A range hood made of stainless steel is a popular choice…
…because it’s easy to clean and matches many ranges and other appliances.
Despite showing dirt more easily…
…white range hoods complement white cabinets and appliances.
Noise Level
In general, range hoods are rated in sones depending on their noise level.
The refrigerator produces a sound that is approximately one sone.
Four sones is the level of the average conversation.
Manufacturers sometimes measure the sound output of their range hoods in decibels.
While cooking, anything under 65 decibels (or 13 sones) should be tolerable.
The important thing to remember is that higher CFM range hoods are typically louder.
Installation
Most ductless range hood installations are simple…
…and don’t require a professional to install.
In most cases, however, ducted range hoods are installed…
…by a contractor because the installation process is more complex.
Vents are either located at the front or back of ducted models…
…which provides a variety of installation options.
Range Hoods Inserts
A kitchen exhaust fan that fits within and powers a bespoke hood is known…
…as a range hood insert. The majority of home range hood inserts…
…are 28″ to 60″ in length. They usually have a CFM range of 600 to 1200.
Liners are inserts that are sometimes used. Both of them are the same item….
Although the majority of them are ducted, some low-profile inserts…
…can be made ductless. For restaurants and other commercial settings…
…inserts usually aren’t powerful enough. 5000+ CFM commercial hoods…
…can filter grease and grime from a variety of ranges, fryers, and grills.
Commercial hoods, on the other hand, are ideal for use in the home…
It’s entirely up to you which type of insert you choose to use….
Because greasy air will enter the hood from all sides…
…inserts over an island may require more care. A wall custom hood…
…on the other hand, is easy to maintain. One of Proline’s most popular inserts…
…is Hurricane. It is available with either a single 600 CFM blower…
…or two blowers for a total of 1200 CFM. You’ll have a lot of versatility…
…with its four-speed control panel, and you can change…
…the power dependent on your cooking method.
Here’s the main part…
Our Top Picks
| Image | Title | Offer Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | Hauslane | Chef Series 30" PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood, Stainless Steel | Pro Performance | Contemporary Design, Touch Screen, Dishwasher Safe Baffle Filters, LED Lamps, 3-Way Venting | Check Price on Amazon | |
Top | Cosmo 668ICS750 30 in. Island Mount Range Hood with 380 CFM, Soft Touch Controls, Permanent Filters, LED Lights, Tempered Glass Visor in Stainless Steel | Check Price on Amazon | |
Top | IKTCH 30'' Wall Mount Range Hood, 900 CFM Stainless Steel Kitchen Chimney Vent with Gesture Sensing & Touch Control, Ducted/Ductless Convertible, 2 Pcs Adjustable Lights, 2 Pcs Baffle Filter IKP02R-30 | Check Price on Amazon |
Let’s go through them one by one…
Hauslane | Chef Series PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
- CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Whether you’re remodeling your entire kitchen or just upgrading appliances, this sleek stainless steel range hood with its convenient digital screen and baffle filters will fit in perfectly and stand the test of time. Choose from matte white, matte black, and stainless steel.
Our first pick range hoods go to Hauslane Range Hoods! Simply because the under-cabinet range hood from Hauslane would fit well in any kitchen.
A ducted model of this air source can handle output…
…from both gas and electric stoves!
It has six-speed speeds and maximum airflow of 860 CFM.
However, despite its high fan power…
…it only produces 3.8 sones of noise at its maximum…
…which is slightly higher than the noise level in an average library.
The range hood comes with three exhaust options…
…as well as adapters to fit most vent styles.
It is also relatively low maintenance…
…featuring a button-free LED control panel…
…that is easy to clean and dishwasher-safe permanent filters.
Stainless steel, matte black, and matte white finishes…
…are available for this model, allowing you to choose a model to suit your kitchen decor.
Next one we have…
Cosmo 668ICS750 30 in. Island Mount Range Hood
- Built with cutting edge technology and with the utmost of care, Cosmo brings you beautiful premium range hoods at an affordable price. Expect cooking and cleaning experiences that make life easier, brighten up your kitchen, and protect your health
The Cosmo Island Mount Range Hood comes second!
A good option if your range isn’t mounted against a wall.
Considering that this range hood is installed on the ceiling…
…it is ideal for kitchens with islands or peninsulas containing ranges.
With a suction of 380 CFM, it is powerful enough…
…to work with most electric cooktops.
With the purchase of a filter kit, this range hood can be used ductless.
What’s interesting from the Cosmos Island Mount Rang Hoods is their featuring dishwasher-safe permanent stainless steel filters and energy-efficient LED lights!
Other than that, this range hood is 30 inches wide!
The highest speed has a sound level of 65 decibels…
…about the same as a conversation in a restaurant or office.
IKTCH 30-inch Wall Mount Range Hood
- 【Modern design】 1mm (19-gauge) thickness full stainless steel body, round corner design, 6 round exhaust duct vent on top, Four-speed Gesture Sensing & Touch Control Switch Panel with 1-15min adjustable timer and remote control, two pcs 3w LED lights (adjustable brightness) and two pcs stainless steel washable baffle filters with handlebars, make your kitchen more modern and fashionable.
IKTCH Wall Mount Range Hoods has become one of our favorites since they are offering the best technology development for a range hood!
Electric stoves produce fewer fumes and heat than their gas-powered counterparts.
They also emit nitrogen dioxide, which may irritate the respiratory system.
A more powerful range hood is therefore necessary.
The wall-mounted range hood has an airflow rate of 900 CFM…
…which is powerful enough to eliminate the fumes and heat that gas stoves produce.
Moreover, the control panel has gesture sensing…
…so you can change settings with a wave of your hand.
This is especially useful when cooking!
It also has an adjustable timer and a remote control…
…so you can turn it off from your dining room table.
The sound output starts at 40 decibels at the lowest setting…
…and it rises to 65 decibels at the highest setting.
This model measures 30 inches wide…
…but it’s also available in a 36-inch version for those with wider ranges.
It includes two dishwasher-safe filters.
It’s also important to note…
How Often to Clean a Kitchen Range Hood
The inside and outside of the hood, as well as the filter…
…should be cleaned monthly if you cook every day.
Seasonal cleaning will suffice if you are not a frequent chef.
Even if you don’t clean the rest of the hood, clean the filter after preparing a holiday feast.
The grease and food particles naturally cling to the surfaces…
…of the ductwork as the fan and suction draw them up.
Cleaning the hood is essential not only to make it look and smell better…
…but also to prevent a house fire.
Cooking is the fourth leading cause of injuries…
…in residential fires after carelessness, smoking, and electrical problems…
…according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
This measure is even more significant when it comes to commercial kitchen fires.
When a pot or pan is left on the stovetop for too long…
…flames may appear and may leap into a greasy range hood…
…causing extensive structural damage.
Sum Up!
Range hoods are an excellent investment…
…if you want to eliminate odors, smoke, grease…
…and other unpleasant odors from your home.
The decorative pieces can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.
Until your kitchen is noise-free, don’t stop dusting it.
Choose the best range hood for you and your family to live a healthier life!
Conclusion
For those of you who want to keep odors, smoke…
…and grease out of their home, a range hood can be a great investment.
Additionally, these decorative pieces give your kitchen a touch of elegance…
…and make it a visual focal point.
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Hi there! I’m a food enthusiast and journalist, and I have a real passion for food that goes beyond the kitchen. I love my dream job and I’m lucky enough to be able to share my knowledge with readers of several large media outlets. My specialty is writing engaging food-related content, and I take pride in being able to connect with my audience. I’m known for my creativity in the kitchen, and I’m confident that I can be the perfect guide for anyone looking to take their culinary journey to the next level.
