A range hood is an essential kitchen appliance that helps remove odors, grease, heat, and smoke from the cooking area. Choosing the right range hood for your kitchen is important to ensure proper ventilation and maximize efficiency. This comprehensive guide will provide useful tips and factors to consider when selecting, installing, and maintaining range hoods.
Introduction
A range hood, also known as an exhaust hood or kitchen vent, is installed above the cooktop or range in the kitchen. It removes airborne grease, combustion products, smoke, odors, heat, and moisture from the air while you cook. Range hoods are typically placed 18-24 inches above the cooking surface for optimal performance.
Having the proper range hood in your kitchen provides the following benefits:
- Improves indoor air quality by eliminating cooking pollutants
- Prevents grease and smoke buildup on kitchen surfaces
- Removes moisture to prevent mold growth
- Protects walls and cabinets from grease damage
- Cools the kitchen by removing excess heat
- Keeps the kitchen smelling fresh
- Saves money on cleaning costs over time
With so much reliance placed on the humble range hood, it is obvious how critical it is to choose the right one for your specific needs.
This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a range hood, proper installation, ducting, and maintenance tips. Follow these best practices, and you’ll have a range hood that performs efficiently for years to come.
Choosing the Right Range Hood
Several criteria determine the best range hood for your kitchen setup. Assessing your cooking style, kitchen size, and budget will help narrow down the options. Keep the following factors in mind when selecting a new range hood:
Ventilation Power
Ventilation power is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CFM, the more effective the range hood is at moving air. Hoods are available in single-speed, two-speed, three-speed, or variable speed motors.
Consider how frequently you cook and what type of cooking you do. For occasional use with minimal fumes, a low CFM around 150-300 is sufficient. Normal cooking with regular fume generation calls for a mid-range 400-600 CFM. Frequent heavy-duty cooking requires a powerful 700+ CFM motor.
Size
Range hood size should match the size of your cooktop or range for optimal fume capture. Measure your cooking surface width and choose a hood at least that wide or preferably 3” wider. Standard hood sizes include 30”, 36”, 42”, 48”. Some are available in higher-end 60” or larger custom sizes.
Mounting Type
Wall-mounted range hoods are installed on the wall behind the cooktop. They take up less space and are easier to install but usually offer lower CFMs than other styles.
Island range hoods hang from the kitchen ceiling over an island cooktop. They require more ductwork but provide very effective ventilation.
Undercabinet range hoods mount beneath wall cabinets and have a sleek built-in look. However, they may not fit well with low mounting cabinets.
Noise Level
Higher CFM motors tend to generate more noise. Look for specs listed in sones—the lower the sones, the quieter the range hood. Under 1.5 sones is ideal, while under 3 sones is still reasonably quiet.
Venting Style
Range hoods are either ducted or ductless. Ducted vents expel air outside through exhaust ducting. They are more effective for removing pollutants but require professional installation.
Ductless (recirculating) vents pass through charcoal filters and redistribute cleaned air indoors. They are easy DIY installs but less efficient ventilators. Ductless hoods must have high CFMs to work well.
Additional Features
Added features to look for include:
- Adjustable speed settings
- Timer function
- Filter clean reminders
- Dishwasher safe filters
- LED, halogen, or incandescent lighting
- Touch controls
- Remote control
- Automatic shutoff
Budget
Range hood prices vary widely from about $50 up to $2000 or more depending on the power, size, style, and extra features. Determine how much you are willing to invest and find the best range hood you can afford within your budget.
Brand
Reputable brands like GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Samsung, Frigidaire, and Bosch offer good warranties and support. Check reviews of specific models for noise, durability, ease of installation, and overall performance.
Range Hood Installation Tips
Proper installation is necessary for your new range hood to function as designed. Follow these top tips:
Hire a Professional
Unless you are very handy, it is wise to hire a professional installer for ducted range hoods. They have the skills to cut holes through cabinets and walls and connect ductwork to exterior vents.
Mount at Proper Height
Standard installation height is 18-24 inches above the cooking surface. Island hoods can be installed up to 36 inches high if needed.
Use Appropriate Mounting Hardware
Ensure all brackets, screws, and hardware are rated for the hood’s weight. This prevents vibrations and slippage over time.
Connect Ductwork
For ducted hoods, use rigid metal ductwork to maximize airflow. Connect ducts to the shortest possible exterior vent. Keep duct elbows to a minimum.
Seal Connections
Seal all duct connections thoroughly with aluminum tape to prevent air leaks. Leaks can compromise performance.
Wire Correctly
Hardwire direct to the electrical panel if possible. Use exact wire gauge and connections per manufacturer instructions.
Check for Proper Ventilation
Verify the hood is actually venting outside by feeling airflow at the exterior vent. Balance the system if needed.
Use Make-Up Air
Adding make-up air replaces exhausted air and improves kitchen temperature and pressure balance. Consider make-up air for CFMs over 1200.
When installed properly, your range hood will vent cooking pollutants reliably for many years. Poor installation can lead to grease buildup, clogs, electrical hazards, and other problems.
Ducting Tips for Optimal Ventilation
Ductwork carries hot, humid, greasy air from the range hood outside. Following ducting best practices improves air flow:
- Use rigid round metal ductwork rather than flexible plastic. Metal ducts are less likely to sag, kink, or accumulate grease.
- Keep the duct run as short and straight as possible. Long ducting with multiple turns reduces airflow.
- Make sure all connections are tight with aluminum tape to prevent leaks.
- Do not use screws to connect ducts. Screws catch grease and cause clogs.
- Use make-up air to balance kitchen pressure and ventilation.
- Provide proper slope for moisture drainage. Slope horizontal ducts downward at least 1/4 inch per foot.
- Use an exterior damper to prevent backdrafts. Dampers close when the hood is off.
- Extend the exterior vent at least 12 inches from the roofline. This allows exhaust to properly dissipate.
- Cap the exterior vent to keep out birds and pests. Gooseneck vents work well for this.
Following these guidelines when installing your ductwork will help maximize air flow and venting effectiveness.
Range Hood Maintenance Tips
Like any appliance, proper care and maintenance are necessary for a range hood to work efficiently over time. Here are useful cleaning and maintenance tips:
Clean Filters Regularly
Metal mesh grease filters trap cooking particles. Clean monthly in a degreaser or dishwasher. Let air dry completely before replacing.
Clean Fans and Housing
Over time, grease builds up on the fan blades and interior housing. Clean annually with a degreaser and small brush.
Clear Ductwork
Inspect ducting yearly for any blockages or leaks. Hire a professional if needed to clear significant grease or air flow issues.
Replace Charcoal Filters
Ductless recirculating hoods require replacing charcoal filters every 3-6 months. Check manufacturer guidelines.
Tighten Mounting
Check that all mounting hardware is secure. Tighten and adjust as needed.
Replace Lightbulbs
Replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately to maintain proper lighting for cooking.
Service when Noisy
Unusual noise from the motor often indicates a problem. Have hood serviced by a professional.
Consistent maintenance makes your range hood far more effective and prolongs its lifespan significantly. Be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s suggested care guidelines.
Common Range Hood Problems and Solutions
Range hoods are relatively trouble-free. However, issues can arise on occasion, especially if maintenance is overlooked. Here are some potential problems and troubleshooting tips:
Problem: Weak airflow, inadequate ventilation
Solution:
- Clean filters, ducts, and fans
- Check for leaks and tighten duct connections
- Remove any blockages or sharp duct angles
- Consider increasing CFM if cooking needs have increased
Problem: Excess grease buildup
Solution:
- Clean range hood and filters regularly
- Use lower heat while cooking
- Have ducts professionally cleaned
Problem: Lights not working
Solution:
- Reset circuit breaker
- Check/replace light bulbs
- Check wiring connections
Problem: Noisy range hood
Solution:
- Clean fan blades
- Tighten mounting bolts
- Replace worn-out motor
Problem: Rattling, vibration
Solution:
- Adjust damper to open more
- Tighten mounting and duct connections
- Adjust cabinet mounting screws
Periodically inspecting your range hood and troubleshooting promptly will help restore proper performance. Seek professional repair if issues persist.
FAQs About Range Hoods
What CFM do I need for my range hood?
Choose a minimum CFM of 100 for electric ranges or 150 for gas ranges. Increase CFM if you do frequent frying or wok cooking. As a rule of thumb, your range hood CFM should be equal to or greater than the BTUs of your cooking surface.
Where should I install my range hood vent?
Ideally vent through the roof. Sidewall vents work too but may recirculate exhaust back inside. Avoid venting into the attic or crawl spaces.
Do range hoods require special wiring?
Hardwired, direct wire connections are best. Hoods pull considerable power, especially commercial styles. Ensure circuits are properly rated.
Should I get a ducted or ductless range hood?
Ducted vents are more powerful and effective. Ductless are easier to install but recirculate air. Ductless require very high CFMs (1,000+) to work well.
How often should I clean my range hood?
Clean metal filters monthly. Wipe down fan housing and blades at least annually. Have ducts cleaned by a professional every 3-5 years depending on use.
Why does my hood vibrate or rattle?
Usually airflow is restricted, causing turbulence. Clean ducts and open dampers to improve airflow. Or mounting bolts may need tightening.
How can I reduce noise from my range hood?
Look for low sone ratings when shopping. Maintain clean fan blades. Install sound dampening insulation around the housing.
Does range hood size matter?
Yes, size your hood at least as wide as your cooking surface. Undersized hoods will not capture and vent fumes properly.
Should I run my range hood before or after cooking?
Run your hood several minutes before and after cooking to capture all pollutants effectively. The hood helps clear initial fumes when you start cooking.
Conclusion
Installing the proper range hood makes a significant difference in your kitchen’s air quality, safety, and comfort. Assess your specific ventilation needs, choose the right style and power, and follow good ducting and installation practices. Perform regular maintenance like cleaning filters and fans to extend the hood’s lifespan. Consider the tips in this guide when selecting and caring for your range hood. With the right hood in place, you’ll breathe easier in your kitchen for years to come.
