It’s not just the raw power that counts. Of course, a range hood model with more CFM (cubic feet per minute) than another will have a higher venting capacity. But to effectively eliminate smoke and cooking odours from your kitchen, your appliance must also be the correct size.
Note:The information below is general advice. Consult the user’s manual for your range or cooktop regarding the manufacturer’s venting requirements.
Range Hood Width — The Rule of Three Inches
At a minimum, your range hood should be as wide as your cooking surface. For improved performance, install a range hood that is 3″ wider on each side—so 6″ wider in total. This extra clearance makes it easier to capture smoke or steam that may not always rise in a straight line. Therefore, a 36″ range hood should be sufficient for a standard 30″ range, whereas a 36″ wide cooking surface would require a 42″ range hood.
Range Hood Depth
Starting from the back of your cooktop, your range hood should at least reach halfway through the front burners. For greater performance, it should cover the full depth of your cooktop.
Your range hood usually shouldn’t need to extend beyond your cooking surface—it would otherwise get in the way of your cooking.
Range Hood Height
The vertical clearance between the cooking surface and your range hood depends on many factors. For example, the burners on a gas range produce much greater heat than on an electric range, so it’s best to allow more clearance to avoid damage to your range hood. Flush-mount ceiling hoods can be installed at a greater distance from your cooking surface if they have sufficient power.
Most models require 24 to 36 inches of clearance between the bottom of the range hood and the cooking surface. Please check your owner’s manual or contact our team for technical specifications regarding the model of your choice.