Are you searching about types of range hoods? Range hoods are essential appliances that ensure a clean and pleasant kitchen environment while you cook. They effectively remove smoke, odors, and grease, providing proper ventilation and allowing you to enjoy your cooking experience without any worries. With various options available, you can choose a range hood that suits your kitchen layout and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a subtle and compact design or a powerful hood that becomes the centerpiece of your kitchen, there are choices to fit every need. These hoods come in different materials, configurations, styles, and finishes, allowing for installation under the cabinetry or directly above the stove. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the various types of range hoods, focusing on their distinct features. Our objective is to assist readers in making informed decisions according to their specific kitchen needs. By familiarizing yourself with the strengths, materials, types, and designs available, you can choose the ideal range hood for your kitchen, enhancing its functionality and visual appeal.
TYPES OF RANGE HOODS ventilation system
There are two main types of kitchen ventilation systems:
1. External venting: This type of system works by directing air through ductwork installed in the wall, ceiling, or floor to effectively expel it from the house. The air is vented outside, helping to remove smoke, odors, and pollutants from the kitchen.
2. Recirculating venting: In this type of system, the air is filtered within the hood and then recirculated back into the kitchen. Instead of being vented outside, the hood captures airborne particles, smoke, and odors, and passes them through filters before releasing the clean air back into the kitchen.
It is important to highlight that convertible range hoods provide the option to switch between these two types based on the availability of ductwork in your kitchen. If your kitchen doesn’t have the necessary ductwork, it can be professionally installed to accommodate your desired cooking configuration. TYPES OF RANGE HOODS
Range hoods are offered in a wide array of styles and are equipped with various features. Let’s explore the different types of range hoods available.
1. Wall Mount Range Hoods
A wall-mounted range hood is a kitchen ventilation system installed directly on the wall above the cooking area. It replaces the cabinets above the range and offers functional and aesthetic benefits. Installing a wall-mounted range hood typically involves removing a section of cabinets above the stove to create an optimal capture area.
Styles and Resemblance: Wall-mount canopy hoods come in various shapes and styles. The most common styles are the pyramid chimney style or tapered hood. They can also be referred to as chimney hoods due to their resemblance to household chimneys.
Ventilation and Features: Wall-mounted range hoods effectively vent smoke, odors, and airborne particles to the outdoors through an exterior wall. They offer a range of powerful venting speeds and can have additional features like LED lighting and perimetric ventilation.
Size and Options: Wall-mounted range hoods are available in different sizes to match the width of your range, ranging from compact to extra-wide. Some models may include an optional chimney piece that enhances ventilation and adds a stylish element to your kitchen.
Aesthetic Appeal: Wall-mounted range hoods are considered a centerpiece in the kitchen and can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your cooking space.
2. Under-cabinet range hoods
Under-cabinet range hoods are designed for kitchens with cabinets or cupboards above the cooktop. They offer discrete and compact designs while providing powerful venting for everyday cooking. Installation of under-cabinet range hoods does not require the removal of cabinets.
Space Requirements: Sufficient space between the hood and the stovetop is important for optimal capture area, typically recommended being around 28″-36″ above the stovetop.
Ductwork and Ventilation Options: Under-cabinet range hoods have versatile ductwork installation options, including behind the hood, through an exterior wall, or up through the cabinet above. They offer two ventilation methods: air recirculation or external venting if possible.
Styles and Designs: Under-cabinet hoods come in various styles and designs to match your kitchen aesthetics. They can be ducted or ductless, offering installation flexibility.
Size and Installation: Finding the right size of the under-cabinet range hood to fit snugly under and between your cabinets is essential. Many models come with systems that simplify the installation process, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
3. OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVE HOOD COMBINATIONS
An over-the-range microwave hood combination is a kitchen appliance that combines a microwave and a ventilation hood. It allows for cooking food while simultaneously removing smoke and odor from the cooking surface below.
Space-Saving Design: These appliances are designed to save space by mounting the microwave under a cabinet. They free up countertop space and allow for storage above the microwave.
Ventilation Method: Over-the-range microwave hood combinations operate by recirculating the air within the kitchen, rather than expelling it outside.
Air Quality and Recirculation: By utilizing recirculation, these appliances help maintain clean kitchen air by filtering and recirculating it back into the kitchen. They effectively remove smoke and odors, improving the overall air quality.
Additional Features: Some models of over-the-range microwave hood combinations offer features similar to those found in ovens, such as Dual Crisp by Maytag®. These features combine top-down heat and microwave cooking to achieve oven-like, crispy results.
4. Island or Ceiling Mounted Range Hoods
Island range hoods are ventilation systems designed for kitchen islands where the cooking surface is not against a wall. They hang from the ceiling and effectively remove smoke, odors, and pollutants while enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetics.
Design and Variety: Island range hoods come in various shapes, styles, and materials to complement the kitchen theme. They offer homeowners the flexibility to choose a hood that suits their personal preferences.
Installation Considerations: Installing an island range hood typically requires ductwork in the ceiling to vent air outside the house.
Features and Functionality: Island canopy hoods are a popular choice due to their strong ventilation capabilities and incorporation of advanced features.
They are finished on all sides, making them visually appealing from any angle.
Ductwork Options: Island range hoods commonly utilize ductwork in the ceiling for venting, but ductless or convertible models may also be available.
Versatile and Attractive: Island range hoods are a versatile option for enhancing the kitchen island’s functionality and appearance.
5. RETRACTABLE DOWNDRAFT HOODS
Retractable downdraft hoods provide a sleek and integrated ventilation solution by remaining hidden and flush with the countertop when not in use. They are installed directly into countertops and can be raised behind the range or cooktop when needed. Ideal for kitchen islands or for those who prefer concealed appliances.
Ventilation Mechanism: Downdraft hoods vent smoke, odors, and pollutants down into the ductwork beneath the floor. They primarily use ducted ventilation, but recirculating kits are available as an alternative option.
Discreet and Unobtrusive: Downdraft hoods provide a clean and unobtrusive look that complements the overall kitchen layout and other appliances.
6. Range hood inserts
Range hood inserts are designed to be hidden within a custom-built hood cover, providing a concealed and customized ventilation solution. They offer a great option for those who prefer the look of a custom range hood cover rather than a visible appliance.
Customization and Aesthetics: Range hood inserts allow you to build a custom hood cover that matches your cabinet design perfectly. The insert provides powerful ventilation, while the custom hood cover enhances the overall design of your kitchen.
Installation and Cabinet Integration: Range hood inserts are typically built into highly customized cabinets located above the cooktop or stovetop. They can convert a premade cabinet into a fully functional range hood, giving you control over the appearance and theme of your kitchen.
Manufacturer Options: Companies like Proline Range Hoods offer a wide selection of highly customizable range hood inserts to suit your specific cabinet needs.
7. Custom range hood
A custom range hood is a specially designed and built hood that offers a powerful design statement for your kitchen. Unlike standard range hoods, custom range hoods are tailored to your specific requirements and can be personalized to match your kitchen’s style and décor.
Design flexibility: With a custom range hood, you have the freedom to choose the design, shape, and materials that best complement your kitchen. You can select from a wide range of options, including different metals like stainless steel, copper, or brass, as well as various finishes and decorative elements.
Size and ventilation power: Custom range hoods can be manufactured to fit any kitchen size and layout. You can determine the ideal dimensions to ensure the hood effectively covers your cooking area and efficiently removes smoke, steam, and odors.
Aesthetics and style: Custom range hoods allow homeowners to create a unique focal point in their kitchens, allowing for personalized aesthetics and style.
Enhanced functionality: Custom range hoods can be equipped with advanced features to improve their functionality.
Efficient ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial in the kitchen to eliminate cooking fumes, excess heat, and airborne contaminants.
8. Range hood liner
A range hood liner is a type of range hood that allows you to hide the ventilation system within custom cabinetry, giving your kitchen a personalized style. The ductwork is concealed inside the cabinets, and the liner is inserted at the bottom. Hood liners typically offer similar venting strength and features as traditional range hoods.
9. Outdoor or BBQ range hood
An outdoor or BBQ range hood is specifically designed for outdoor cooking areas, such as outdoor kitchens or barbecue spaces. These range hoods are essential for proper ventilation and smoke extraction, ensuring a clean and comfortable cooking environment.
Ventilation and smoke extraction: Outdoor cooking can produce significant amounts of smoke, grease, and odors. An outdoor range hood is equipped with powerful fans and efficient ventilation systems to effectively capture and remove smoke, grease particles, and cooking odors from the cooking area.
Durable construction: Outdoor range hoods are built to withstand the elements and the demands of outdoor cooking. They are typically constructed using weather-resistant materials, such as stainless steel, which can withstand exposure to heat, rain, and other outdoor conditions.
Size and design considerations: Outdoor range hoods come in various sizes to accommodate different cooking setups and outdoor kitchen configurations. The design of outdoor range hoods often incorporates a more robust and utilitarian aesthetic to complement the outdoor cooking area.
Lighting and additional features: Many outdoor range hoods are equipped with built-in lighting to illuminate the cooking area during nighttime or low-light conditions.
Cleaning and maintenance: Proper installation: Installing an outdoor range hood requires professional expertise to ensure proper venting and safe operation.
WHAT OPTIONS SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A RANGE HOOD?
When buying a range hood, there are several options you should consider to find the right one for your kitchen. Here’s a simplified explanation of the key features:
Size: Choose a range hood that matches the width of your cooking surface for proper coverage.
Venting Strength (CFMs): Look for a range hood with sufficient cubic feet per minute (CFM) airflow capacity to effectively remove smoke, odor, and grease from your kitchen. Higher CFM ratings indicate stronger ventilation.
BTU Ratings: If you have a gas range, ensure that the range hood can handle the heat generated by your burners. BTU ratings measure the heat output of gas burners, so select a hood with a rating equal to or higher than your cooktop.
Lighting: Opt for a range hood with bright LED lights to illuminate your cooking surface. Some models offer adjustable brightness levels and even night light settings.
Automatic Speed Adjustment: Consider range hoods with automatic sensors that detect cooking activities and adjust the fan speed accordingly for convenience.
Filters: Range hoods come with different types of filters, such as baffle, mesh, or charcoal filters. Baffle filters are easier to clean, while charcoal filters require replacement. Choose one based on your cleaning preferences.
Quietness (dBAs): Check the decibel ratings to find a range hood that operates quietly, especially if noise is a concern for you.
Conclusion
After reading the types of range hoods? Choosing the right range hood is crucial when renovating your kitchen. A well-functioning range hood contributes to a pleasant environment throughout your home. With a wide variety of brands, styles, and installation options available, you have the freedom to customize your kitchen according to your preferences. Fortunately, the layout of your kitchen helps determine the type of range hood that suits your needs. If you have cabinets above your stove, an under-cabinet hood is the recommended choice. When there is open space above your range, a wall mount hood is ideal. And if you have an island where you do your cooking, an island range hood is the perfect fit. Once you have determined the layout that suits your kitchen, it can be beneficial to consult a range hood buying guide for personalized recommendations. By referring to a range hood buying guide, you can make well-informed decisions that are tailored to meet your specific requirements and preferences.
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