How to Choose the Best Range Hood?

Range hoods are reliable and durable pieces of equipment, making it even more important to choose the right model from the start. Should you discover that your new hood turns out to be a disappointment or very noisy … you may have to put up with it for a long time! Here are some tips to help you choose the best range hood for your kitchen project.

Ducted vs. Ductless Range Hoods

Except in those rare cases the only range hood you can install is a ductless model, these should be avoided. Although they can do a decent job of trap ping grease and odours in a filter, they just recirculate the smoke, moisture and heat elsewhere in the room. Instead, a ducted range hood will completely expel these substances outside your home , ideally through the most direct and efficient route possible.

Most Popular Types of Range Hoods

Depending on your kitchen layout, h ere are four popular types of range hoods you could choose from:

• Cabinet Insert Hood: This discreet and compact model is installed under a wall – mounted cabinet or a kitchen island cabinet, which is sometimes used to conceal the exhaust duct. (Browse products)
• Ceiling Hood: Also known as an ” island hood”, this model is either installed or suspended from the ceiling, usually over a central kitchen island. (Browse products)
• Decorative Hood: Installed against a wall or above a kitchen island, this stylish hood is topped by an exposed chimney. (Browse products)
• Custom Hood: It ’ s simple: customization makes any thing possible! This is often the choice of chefs , designers and foodies who want the very best equipment to meet their needs, without compromise. (Browse products)

How Much Power Does a Range Hood Need?

The power of a range hood is measured in cubic feet per minute ( CFM). This represents the the volume of air the unit can move under certain conditions. For power, the independent Home Ventilating Institute recommends:

• 100 CFM for each linear foot of cooktop for a wall – mounted or cabinet insert hood
• 150 CFM for each linear foot of cooking surface for a ceil ing hood

However, the performance of a range hood depends on more than just its raw power. It also needs to be properly installed following the manufacturer’s instructions, and should provide sufficient clearance to avoid smoke or steam from escaping on its sides. To maximize the hood’s performance , a vent duct leading outside should be installed using the largest width available , keeping runs short and bends minimal.

Range Hood Size: How Big Should It Be?

Rule of thumb: the bigger , the better! Consumer Reports magazine recommends choosing a model that’s at least the same width as your cooking surface.

How Much Does a Range Hood Cost?

What’s the difference between a basic, hardware store range hood under $100 and sophisticated models priced over $3,000? As with most purchases, the higher – priced unit often uses superior components and provides greater value. Thus, the cost of a range hood model will vary depending on:

• Its power
• Its noise level
• Its controls (e.g. , mechanical or digital)
• The number of speeds available (or if it includes a n electronic variator for even finer control)
• Its materials
• The quality of its lighting components (e.g. , incandescent, halogen, LED, etc.)
• Additional features such as a timer, heat sensor, smart programming, etc.

Need Advice to Choose the Best Range Hood ?

To be sure you’re making the right choice, feel free to contact our team. Our specialists will be happy to answer all your questions and help you with your new range hood purchase.