How to Select the Right Range Hood
All range hoods have the same basic purpose, but when you’re choosing one for your kitchen, you need to consider installation type, overall size, filter type and other features. Learn how to select the right range hood in this Build.com video:
Installation Types
You want to position the range hood over your cooktop, so if the range is installed against the wall with no cabinets above it, you can choose a wall-mounted range hood or a range hood insert with a custom surround. If your cooktop is installed in a kitchen island, you can choose an island range hood which vents out of the ceiling or a downdraft hood which pulls the air through pipes installed below the cabinet. Ceiling mounted hoods have a lot of visual impact and typically feature integrated lighting to illuminate the work surface. Downdraft hoods retract out of site when not in use, so you’ll need to install task lighting above the cooktop.
Range hoods with external vents are connected to duct work that pulls the air outside of the house, either venting through the roof or through the side of the house. Recirculating vents are not vented outside; instead, the air is cleaned by pulling it through filters before blowing it back into the room. One thing to note about these hoods is that they include filters that need to changed or cleaned regularly, but they’re a good choice when venting outdoors would be too costly, inconvenient or impossible.
Overall Size
In general, the range hood should extend about three inches beyond the cooktop on all sides. For example, a 30-inch wide range would call for a 36-inch wide hood. You’ll also need to consider the air capacity of the range hood. Range hoods are rated by the amount of air they move in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CFM, the faster the air can move.
Filter Types
The job of a range hood is to remove impurities from the air, and all that grease, steam and particulates need to go somewhere. Aluminum mesh filters can be washed and reused. Charcoal filters (commonly found in recirculating vents) usually have to be replaced at least twice a year. Baffle filters channel grease into a residue cup rather than trapping grease within the filter itself, and since the baffles are typically made of smooth shiny metal which resists build-up, cleanup is easy.
Other Features
Integrated lighting is very useful and is designed to shine down on the cooktop for task lighting while your working. Many range hoods have adjustable lighting that can be dialed down to serve as a night light or to create ambience in the kitchen when you’re not cooking.
For convenience and easy cleanup, look for range hoods with filters or baffles that are dishwasher safe. Many of the latest range hoods are WiFi enabled so they can be controlled through an app on your device.
Your final consideration will be style, whether you’re looking for a downdraft hood that disappears between uses or a big industrial stainless steel statement piece.
