Range Hoods 101: Everything You Need to Know

A range hood is one of the most important appliances in your kitchen. Not only does it keep your kitchen well-ventilated, but it also helps to keep it free of smoke, grease, and odors. If you're in the market for a new range hood, or if you're simply curious about how they work, read on for everything you need to know about range hoods.

How Do Range Hoods Work?

A range hood is installed above your stove or cooktop and typically contains a fan that vents to the outside of your home. The fan sucks up all of the smoke, grease, and odor-filled air and filters it before venting it out. This not only clears the air in your kitchen, but it also keeps your walls and ceilings free of dirt and grime.

There are two types of range hoods: ducted and ductless. Ducted range hoods are connected to an exterior wall via ductwork, while ductless range hoods filter the air and recirculate it back into the kitchen. Ducted range hoods are more effective at clearing the air, but they can be more expensive to install.

Ducted Range Hoods

A ducted range hood is the most powerful type of range hood and is therefore ideal for homes with heavy cooking traffic. The way it works is simple: a fan inside the hood draws air up through a duct to the outside of the house, where it is then dispersed. Because the air is moved out of the house entirely, ducted range hoods are considered to be the most effective at removing odors, smoke, and grease from the air. However, they can be more expensive than other types of range hoods and can also require more installation work.

Ductless Range Hoods

Ductless range hoods are a good middle-of-the-road option for many homeowners. They are less expensive than ducted range Hoods but more powerful than wall-mounted range hoods. Ductless range hoods work by drawing air up through a filter, where it is then recirculated back into the kitchen. While this means that they are not as effective as ducted range hoods at removing odors and smoke from the air, they are still better than wall-mounted range hoods.

Under-Cabinet Range Hoods

These compact hoods are designed to be installed beneath your kitchen cabinets. They come in both ducted and ductless models, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs. Under-cabinet range hoods are typically very quiet, making them a good choice if peace and quiet is a priority.  

Island Range Hoods

Island range hoods are bigger and more powerful than under-cabinet range hoods, which makes them ideal for kitchens with multiple cooking surfaces. They also do a better job of clearing smoke and odors from your kitchen. However, they're more expensive to buy and install, and they can be quite noisy.

Wall-mounted Range Hoods

Wall-mounted range hoods are similar to island range hoods in terms of size and power. However, they're installed on the wall instead of being suspended from the ceiling. This makes them easier to install than island range hoods, but they can be a bit more expensive.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Range Hood?

When shopping for a range hood, there are several things you'll want to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your kitchen and choose a model that's appropriate for the space. Second, think about what type of ventilation you need. If your home isn't pre-wired for a ducted system, then a ductless model will be your best bet. Third, decide on a style that complements the rest of your kitchen. There are many different styles of range hoods on the market today, from sleek stainless steel models to more traditional designs. fourthly pay attention to noise levels. Some range hoods can be quite noisy, so if peace and quiet is important to you, look for a model with sound-dampening technology.

A range hood is a vital appliance for any kitchen it helps to keep the space well-ventilated and free of smoke, grease, and odors. When shopping for a new range hood, keep in mind the size of your kitchen, what type of ventilation you need, and what style would best complement your space. And don't forget to pay attention to noise levels! With these factors in mind, you're sure to find the perfect range hood for your home.