Whether you are constructing a new kitchen or remodeling an old one, you need to decide which range hood to opt for. After all, a range hood is a primary component in any kitchen.
Range hoods come in many different types and designs, and are made of several different materials. Among the so many options available in the market, how do you select the best ones for your needs?
Let us review the most common types of range hoods.
Under-the-Cabinet Range Hoods
This is one of the most common types of range hoods in the market. As the name implies, the appliance is positioned directly above the stove and below the cabinets.
Since the venting system is simple and versatile, the under-the-cabinet range hood gels well in any kitchen, regardless of the layout and the design.
Ventilation is provided by placing the ductwork in the cabinet above the stove or behind the range hood and out through the wall.
Though this reduces some of your storage space, an under-the-cabinet range hood is a recommended option for most kitchen designs because it takes up less space and can be installed with ease.
Wall Mounted Range Hoods
Wall mounted range hoods also preserve kitchen space. As the name implies, models of this range hood type are attached to the wall right above your stove.
For newer kitchens, the appliance or the ductwork isn’t concealed behind the cabinet because the aesthetics are often appealing and contribute to the overall design of your kitchen.
If you’re remodeling your kitchen and already have cabinets above the stove, then choosing this range hood may mean removing some of them so that the hood can be accommodated.
Some models are also equipped with a chimney for ventilation; the ducts lead the fumes outside through the exterior wall behind the hood.
As already mentioned, wall mounted hoods add to the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen by adding a sleek touch to your cooking space. Since they offer more than their basic functionality, these models are often pricier than other types of range hoods.
Island Mounted Range Hoods
If your cooking range is not located against any wall, you should consider the island mounted range hood. Also known as ceiling mounted hoods, these are recommended if you have a professional cooking range so that the load of additional burners and tools can be handled more effectively.
Island mounted range hoods also contribute to the design and are available in modern materials like glass, copper or ceramic. They often come in pretty shades, so you’re sure to find something that contributes to the overall design of your kitchen.
Ductless Range Hoods
Wall, under-the-cabinet or island hoods are also available in a ductless version, where they direct steam and smoke away from the cooking range. Once the air is filtered out, it is thrown back inside the kitchen. As such, the filters on a ductless range hood quickly accumulate oil and grease buildup, and must be cleaned on a monthly basis.
A carbon filter is often integrated with a ductless range hood to remove odor.
Chimney Range Hoods
A chimney range hood can be mounted to the wall or above the ceiling. As such, it can be used whether your kitchen range hood is installed against a wall or isolated.
Downdraft Ventilation Hoods
This is one of the less popular types of range hoods, but nonetheless, it is recommended for kitchens with limited space or with isolated cooking ranges. The exhaust component is hidden inside your cooking range.
When it has to be used, you can press a side button, upon which it will pop out of the range. Since the design is unobtrusive, the downdraft ventilation range hood can be used in any type of kitchen.
Wall Ventilation Fans
Wall ventilation fans are an alternative to kitchen range hoods. They can be a good choice if the ventilation in your kitchen is poor, but they don’t always work efficiently if you want to eliminate fumes and odors from your cooking space.
Follow our blog for more great information on range hoods.
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