If youve ever cooked broccoli or fish, you know how important it is to vent the smell properly. Without proper ventilation, grease particles from cooking are released into the air and attach themselves to the backsplash, walls, curtains, and more. As the owner of Hearthstone Home Remodeling, he provided expertise on why a range hood is important in every kitchen, along with what features to look for when comparing models. Removes Smells Properly cleaning a range hood involves removing build-up from the exterior of the hood, as well as the filter inside. In order to prevent a grease fire, it's integral to clean the mesh filter in the range hood on a regular basis. Although a beautifully crafted range hood can become the focal point of your kitchen, there are some people who would rather not see a hood at all. Broan-Nutone is the market leader in ventilation products and range hoods. One of the most popular options for a wall-mounted range hood is the ZLINE KB-30 model. Only the Cattura series of hoods from Best comes with multiple installation options to accommodate flexible location for the duct and the motor. You may choose this type if youre looking for an appliance that will become a focal point of your kitchen design. After filtration, the air is exhausted through vents on the underside of the range hood. Like many ducted range hoods, this 2-speed one comes with filters that can easily be cleaned, or replaced if they get too gunky. These staple appliances remove smoke, grease, fumes, and filter the air. This Cavaliere hood has 900 CFM and thats just one of the reasons why the convertible range hood is so popular. With depressurization, the carbon monoxide from cooking goes right back into your home instead of being vented out. Kitchen hoods are generally considered to be a pretty low tech appliance, comprised only of some metal and a motor. Dimensions: 47 x 29.2 x 23.6 inches | Mount Type: Island | Vent Type: Ducted | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: 380 CFM | Number of Fan Speeds: 3, Must adapt power cord for hardwire installation. There are a select number of hoods that offer both venting types. Ducted range hoods use ductwork to pull in particles and push them outside of the house. For example, if you live in a small apartment and don't want to compromise on space, you may alternatively opt for an over the range microwave. They also provide illumination for everyday cooking, as well as a soft dim accent light for ambiance. Keep in mind that regularly cleaning a kitchen range hood is a good practice, and this model has stainless steel baffle filters that can be removed and washed by hand or in the dishwasher. There is also a third type of filter, known as a charcoal filter. Because since your range hood will pull out air, and the house is sealed, there is nothing to make up for that air. The light is strong enough to illuminate your cooking surface. Under cabinet range hoods account for 95% of all hoods sold. A downdraft range hood is integrated into the range. Theyre more affordable but do require more maintenance due to the filters. Ductless range hoods, on the other hand, recirculate the air using filters. If you prefer modern minimalism, a downdraft hood may be a good option for you. One way to prevent this unnecessary chaos is to install a range hood. With this GE range hood, you won't have to sacrifice design for cost. Dimensions: 8 x 29.75. x 23 inches | Mount Type: Under cabinet | Vent Type: Ducted | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: 860 CFM | Number of Fan Speeds: 6, Corrosion-resistant stainless steel finish, Extension pieces for tall ceilings sold separately. This means that the air is filtered within the hood and released back into the home, instead of being vented outdoors. The coolest part about this style is that you can often order when in custom colors. The duct should be the most direct route out of the house, either through an exterior wall or the roof. Slide out hoods, quite literally, slide out from below your cabinets. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Wine Enthusiast, Real Simple, and The Kitchn.. Slide-Out Range Hoods These blowers are relatively large and live outside the home. As a rule of thumb, you can remember that Broan ranges are good, Zephyr's are better and more stylish, and Best offers the best quality and style options. The extra height will make it easier for the fan to exhaust cooking fumes and steam from pots. When choosing a range hood, you must first determine whether or not you can vent the air outside. If there are no cabinets above the hood, its considered a wall-mounted range hood. Mount: Wall-Chimney | Vent: Convertible | CFM: 460 | Dimensions (DxWxH): 24 x 36 x 30 inches, What We Love: Stylish, easy to clean, powerful, What We Don't Love: Humming noise at low settings, can be tricky to install. Range hoods come in different varieties of mounting styles. Why? Theres a timer feature to turn off the fans should you need it. Most people suggest getting a hood that is one size bigger than your range, so if your stove is 30 inches, get a hood thats 36 inches to ensure that it will catch all the particles floating around while youre cooking. If your blower is outside your home, it will have to work harder to remove the smoke from your kitchen. If it's placed too high, it won't be effective at trapping grease, smoke, and fumes. Inline blowers combine the power of both internal and external blowers. Dimensions: 5.5 x 29.8 x 20 inches | Mount Type: Under cabinet | Vent Type: Convertible | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: 200 CFM | Number of Fan Speeds: 2, Telescoping mechanism requires maintenance. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best Dimensions: 5.5 x 29.75 x 19.75 inches | Mount Type: Under cabinet | Vent Type: Convertible | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: 100 CFM | Number of Fan Speeds: 3. So, if you find the perfect hood, but think it will stick out from your kitchen cabinets too much, don't worry! GE is a brand we love and trust with service, This model is convertible and can vent outside or recirculate the air, The 350 CFM is below make up air requirements, which will give you one less thing to worry about, The 30 and 36 inch models include a black stainless color, which is hard to find in a hood, This range hood isn't powerful enough to be placed over pro gas ranges. Although baffle filters are more expensive than mesh filters, they are usually more durable. This is something Zephyr specializes in, which means you'll never have to choose power over style. 73% of 100+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above. With this hood comes Zephyr's signature Air Control Technology (ACT). This type is most appropriate if your stove is located in a center island. You live in an apartment and have a 30 inch opening, You have limited space under your cabinet and cant fit an over-the-range microwave. The filter is not dishwasher safe. For reference, this is around the noise level of a quiet vacuum. Replacement filters are usually sold in packs of six for about $15. With induction or electric cooktops, the range can be placed closer to the cooktop. Many range hoods may look alike but have different mounting types. If you're looking for a chimney hood but don't want to spend an arm and a leg, this sleek GE model is a great option for you. In other words, a CFM of 350 means 350 cubic feet of air is being blown each minute. You run around the house opening windows to prevent the smoke alarm from going off and waking up everyone else in the home. Each has distinct advantages, Induction vs electric cooktop is the key question when you're looking to buy a new smooth-top stove. As a rule of thumb 400-600 CFMs is more than enough for most homes. You may also be able to opt for a convertible range hood, which can be used either ducted or nonducted. Wipe down the range hood and control panel with a cleaning cloth or sponge to keep it looking spot-free. XtremeAIR Ultra Series UL10-U30 30 in. We will answer questions such as how high you need to place them above your stove. It also needs a powerful range hood to keep the unpleasant particles from floating around the kitchen. Theyre responsible for removing aromas, heat, and smoke particles from your kitchens air while you cook. You want both a stylish hood and a powerful blower. The bulb sits behind a protective lens to shield it from heat. The Simply Recipes A-Z Guide to Cooking Terms and Definitions, Viking 36-Inch Wall Mount Convertible Chimney Range Hood, Hauslane 30-Inch Ducted Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood. This is important because it affects placement, and Ulatowski suggests installing your cooktop or range on an exterior wall (if possible) so that the exhaust can release outside the home as quickly as possible. You won't be anxious to suck up grease particles with this since it has an interior steam cleaning function that can dissolve grease inside the hood itself. 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This convertible model from GE is a great option for filtering the air from your kitchen range, and it will enhance your homes indoor quality with a frills-free but efficient operation. Keep in mind: depth and height are as important as width, Forgetting to check the make up air requirements of your town, Not centering the ventilation hole (or not knowing that it is not centered). Good lighting and visibility are also important features of range hoods, and this Cosmo island range hood includes four 2-watt LED light bulbs to provide adequate lighting over your entire cooking surface. However, it provides air recirculation above your cooktop and traps contaminants like smoke and grease in a replaceable charcoal filter. Large kitchens typically feature a classic style chimney hood. The Cosmo COS-5MU30 has a slim profile and is lightweight but is equipped with a three-speed fan motor to draw exhaust from your cooktop. This article was written by Erica Puisis, a content and home appliance writer for The Spruce. The tradeoff for this compact range hood is more limited air movement of about 100 CFM per the manufacturer. However, if you install a cooktop in a kitchen island, you probably don't want to block your view of your family and guests with a large device. The company also makes hoods under the names Broan, Best Range Hoods, and Zephyr. Then you can proceed with the installation of the range hood according to mounting type. Each manufacturer is responsible for claiming the CFM for their products. Permanent stainless steel filters are designed with special baffles to improve circulation. Gas vs Electric Stove: Which Is Better for Home Cooks? Island Range hoods hang from your ceiling and are a great option if your cooktop isnt positioned against a wall. Usually, it will mean that the cooktop and range hood are located on an exterior wall. She's contributed to Forbes and smart home blogs like Smart Home Solver and TechDigg. productslearn more about Mount: Under cabinet | Vent: Convertible | CFM: 375 | Dimensions (DxWxH): 19.6 x 30 x 6 inches, What We Love: Easy to install, affordable, ADA compliant, What We Don't Love: Fan not as powerful as a vented hood. We spent hours searching for the best range hoods on the market, evaluating each one on ease of installation, effectiveness, noise output, and overall value. Another correct term for a hood insert is a built-in range hood. Keep in mind that a higher CFM rating is also accompanied by an increase in fan noise. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. They serve five distinct purposes, including removing smells, smoke, and grease, illuminating your cooktop, and adding an element of design to your kitchen. They tend to be smaller than other range hoods but also look uniform with the range. This causes a bevy of problems like: To prevent this from happening, make up air is required. Removes Grease Convertible Under Cabinet Range Hood, Best Downdraft: This allows the installer to set the maximum fan CFM to align with local codes and regulations. Then, tighten the screws to fully secure the range hood. Loud noises as air tries to get in through crevices in the house. If youre working with a small space or low ceiling heights, you may not have room for a standard-sized range hood. When it comes to time to clean, all three 6-layer grease filters are able to be put into the dishwasher while the hood itself just needs a quick wipe down. This hood is not recommended for use over high-powered pro ranges and cooktops. XO is a reliable brand with excellent service history. Although both filters are just as effective at trapping grease, they differ in design and ease of use. And finally, if you're looking for an effective downdraft hood, the Best D49M30SB Cattura is here to save the day! Have you ever seen a vent hood that sticks out too far? How to Prepare for Your Range Hood Installation, Monogram Appliances Reviewed: Smart, Dependable Luxury, How a Baltimore Chef Built a Timeless Home Studio Kitchen. You must determine if your kitchen requires horizontal or vertical ducting, as well as what size ducting is most appropriate. Ductless hoods recirculate air after it has vented through the filter. Either way, let them dry completely before placing them back in the hood. A range hood will not be the right fit for your kitchen if you're low on space. Another thing to keep in mind is that, like depth, manufacturers make hoods in different heights. That exhaust is also pushed away from your cabinets. Depth Looking for a seamless look in your kitchen? The fact that its ductless also makes it a better choice for DIY installation. Use a clean cloth with warm water to rinse all surfaces after they have been cleaned. In the last five years, most localities have enforced make up air requirements. With superior air movement of 860 CFM, the Hauslane Chef Series PS18 is our top pick for an under cabinet range hood because of its power. This means you'll have to change the filter every three to six months, depending on how much you cook. However, these are also important safety considerations to keep in mind. External blowers are great for those who are easily bothered by noise. A range hood can add several hundred dollars (or more) to your kitchen project. Since an island range hood will attract attention, youll want to choose a stylish option. (P.S. There are so many on the market, and its hard to know which ones are stylish as well as functional. Ductless Under Cabinet Range Hood at Amazon, ZLINE 36-Inch Wall Mount Range Hood at Amazon, Cosmo 30-Inch Island Mount Range Hood at Amazon, Best Overall, Wall Mount: The hood can, however, be about three inches bigger than the cooktop. It also offers the advantage of being a convertible unitit comes ready to install as a ducted range hood, but you can also order a kit to convert it for ductless operation. Dimensions: 26.5-42.5 x 30 x 18 inches | Mount Type: Wall-mounted | Vent Type: Convertible | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: 400 CFM | Number of Fan Speeds: 4. Viking does offer an optional charcoal filter kit if your air needs better purification. However, if your outdoor kitchen is enclosed, you'll need a vent hood. Keep in mind, this design style means that you will need to sacrifce kitchen cabinets above your cooktop. The telescoping design allows this KitchenAid model to extend 14 inches above your cooktopsome downdraft systems only reach a height of 10 inches and are better suited for use with a skillet or saut pan. This results in unsightly grease stains all around. First up, we have our pick for the best budget range hood, the Broan-NuTone 413004. Youll need to keep the telescoping mechanism in good working order with regular maintenance, and when you do, youll have a downdraft on demand that doesnt obstruct your view when not in use. Within wall-mounted range hoods, its important to know that some are ducted, and some are ductless., Most wall-mounted range hoods come in chimney designs. Downdraft hoods slide out from your cooktop when you need them, and can easily be hidden when not in use. This provides you with increased flexibility when entertaining outdoors. When you turn on the fan to vent normal cooking smells, the fan will operate at one of the quietest levels around, which means you can leave it on while eating and not have to shout your dinner conversation. It's important to know your local building code, which tells you maximum CFM allowed in your town. It's also easy to install since there's no duct to deal with. The dual motors on this model suck out even the toughest odors and smoke (one online reviewer is a cast-iron skillet enthusiast and loves this range hood). Whether you're looking for a stunning showpiece or a minimalistic and functional hood, there is a design to fit your needs. A win-win. That's why we're giving you our picks for the top 5 best range hoods on the market, from brands like Broan, GE, Zephyr, XO, and Best. Ulatowski suggests that an ideal height in most kitchen configurations is about 30 inches above the stovetop, but no less than 24 inches. Therefore, it is customary for them to offer the blower as a separate purchase. We based our reviews on factors such as noise level, power, design, and ease of installation. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Soak the filters in a mixture of warm water, soap, baking soda, and then scrub them clean with a brush. It is available in 14 other colors and finishes if you're looking to match your kitchen decor. KOBE INX2930SQBF-500-1 Insert Range Hood, Best Ductless: KitchenAid KXD4636YSS 36 in. She also took into account trends noted in customer reviews, especially in terms of installation and performance. The most common and efficient type is a ducted range hood. It is best to reach our to your contractor for your range hood installation unless you are simply replacing a 30-inch under cabinet range hood. If you're looking for a wall-mounted option, the Viking 36-Inch Wall Mount Convertible Chimney Range Hood is our top choice. Make up air systems ensure an equal amount of fresh air enters the house after the filtered air is vented out. You spent a ton of money on the rest of your stainless steel appliances and want a cost-effective option that matches your kitchen design. Models like the KitchenAid Specialty Series Telescopic Downdraft System appear when you need ventilation and then retract when not in use. However, it's important to note that hood inserts are not the same thing as hood liners, even though many people use the names interchangeably. If your ceilings are taller or shorter, short kits or extension pieces are sold separately. Last but not least, it has two 35-watt lights to help you see what you're cooking. Removes Smoke Unlike some other models, this features easy-on-the-eyes LED lights to illuminate your stove area. Looking to add an extra source of light to your kitchen? All ducted or covertible range hoods come with vertical or horizontal venting options. To avoid making this costly mistake, be sure to avoid blindly purchasing a hood based soley on the design. Every time you turn on the hood, a signal is sent to your HVAC system. This cost-effective option retails for under $100 and is the perfect range hood for those with limited space. Mount: Wall-Chimney | Vent: Convertible | CFM: 400 | Dimensions (DxWxH): 19.7 x 36 x 10.5 inches. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Its also worth pointing out that some compact or shallow range hoods fail to provide sufficient exhaust action for the front burners on a range, but this range hood is 22 inches deep and provides coverage for most cooktops. GE GEAP1148 30 in. It is a good idea to check with your contactor about your site specific requirements before making your purchase. Whatever style you choose, you do need to keep in mind how powerful you want your range hood to be, and thats where the cubic feet per minute (CFM) ratio comes into play. In fact, Broan is the only company that still makes bisque-colored hoods. To figure out what you need for your kitchen, its important to figure out the CFM ratio by taking your stoves BTU and dividing it by 100. The 30-inch GE Convertible Under Cabinet Range Hood fits snugly above your range, in the perfect spot to capture cooking oil, smoke, and steam from the pans and pots below. Most downdrafts usually cover about eight to ten inches, and are therefore, ineffective. There are many things to consider when shopping for a range hood. Picture this - youre cooking up a pound of greasy bacon on a Sunday morning, when suddenly, the smoke seems to take on a life of its own. The range hood takes in this grease and traps it in a filter before blowing clean air out of the unit. Adds an Elegant Design Element to Your Kitchen Under-cabinet range hoods will mount to cabinets over the stove, while wall-mounted range hoods will attach to the wall. Its a job that is best left to a professional. Chimney Style However, the biggest difference in an inline blower is that it does not live inside the hood. While some range hoods feature an integrated blower, other options are designed for aesthetics and then outfitted with a range hood insert to provide the functionality needed for proper airflow. You want to maximize cabinet availability above the coooking surface. Because they're easily hidden, they're a great option for a minimalistic kitchen. Height The specific process will vary depending on your homes layout and the type of range hood you choose. Best of all, this comes in multiple sizes and finishes, so you can have your entire cooking area match. Width, height, and depth are all important in terms of making sure the hood fits in the space alotted. For outdoor use, your options are limited to pro style. Range hoods look cool, but they serve a purpose, too. The height is especially important if you have a gas cooktop, as heat can easily escape from the bottom of the pot while cooking. Maintenance of this range hood insert is super simple, as the baffles and aluminum mesh inserts are dishwasher-safe. Hauslane makes a 6-speed under-cabinet range hood thats sleek and powerful, while still being easy to maintain. It also happens to be stylish in its brushed stainless steel presentation and has a digital panel that allows you to control the lights, fans, and cleaning reminders. Before fastening the range hood in place, connect the wiring in the hoods electrical box and ensure that the duct connector is secure. Think of it as wearing a pair of socks with your shoes! It's the only downdraft hood that extends 18 inches above the cooking surface. Dimensions: 6 x 29.8 x 17.5 inches | Mount Type: Under cabinet | Vent Type: Ductless | Maximum Air Flow Capacity: Not Applicable | Number of Fan Speeds: 2, Heavier and larger than some other options. Overall, Zephyr hoods are as reliable as they come. Forgetting to read the product description and specifications before purchasing.