A range hood is one of the most important appliances in your kitchen. It removes smoke, grease, heat, and cooking odors from the air. This keeps your kitchen cleaner and your home healthier.
Many people spend hours researching stoves and cooktops. But they forget about the range hood. This is a mistake. A good ventilation system makes cooking more pleasant. It also protects your indoor air quality.
What Is a Range Hood?
A best range hood is an appliance mounted above your stove or cooktop. It uses a fan to pull air from your cooking area. The hood either vents this air outside or filters it and sends it back into your kitchen.
Range hoods serve several important purposes:
- Remove cooking smoke and steam
- Eliminate food odors
- Reduce grease buildup on surfaces
- Improve indoor air quality
- Remove harmful combustion gases (especially important for gas stoves)
Without a range hood, grease, moisture, and smoke settle on your cabinets, walls, and countertops. This creates more cleaning work and can damage your kitchen over time.
Types of Range Hoods
Ducted Range Hoods
Ducted range hoods (also called vented range hoods) are the most effective option. They connect to ductwork that sends contaminated air outside your home.
How They Work: A fan pulls in smoke, steam, and grease. The air travels through ducts and exits through an exterior wall or roof.
Advantages:
- Most effective at removing smoke and odors
- Removes moisture completely from your kitchen
- No need to replace filters frequently
- Removes harmful combustion gases from gas stoves
- Often quieter because blowers can be placed away from the kitchen
Disadvantages:
- Requires professional installation
- Needs ductwork to an exterior wall or roof
- More expensive upfront
- Installation may not be possible in all kitchens
Ducted range hoods are best for people who cook frequently, use gas stoves, or do high-heat cooking like stir-frying and deep-frying.
Ductless Range Hoods
Ductless range hoods (also called recirculating range hoods) don’t vent air outside. Instead, they filter the air and send it back into your kitchen.
How They Work: Air passes through metal filters that capture grease. Then it goes through charcoal filters that absorb odors. The cleaned air recirculates back into your kitchen.
Advantages:
- Easier and cheaper to install
- No ductwork needed
- Can be installed almost anywhere
- Lower upfront cost
- Good for apartments and rentals
Disadvantages:
- Less effective than ducted hoods
- Don’t remove heat or moisture
- Filters need regular replacement (every 3-6 months)
- Not as good for heavy cooking or gas stoves
- Cannot remove all combustion gases
Ductless range hoods work best for light cooking, electric stoves, and kitchens where ducting is not possible.
Convertible Range Hoods
Convertible range hoods can work as either ducted or ductless. They give you flexibility based on your kitchen setup.
You can install them with ductwork if available. If not, you can use them with filters as a ductless system. Many models include the conversion kit.
Range Hood Styles
Under-Cabinet Range Hoods
These install beneath your upper cabinets, directly above your stove. They are the most common style.
Best For:
- Smaller kitchens
- People who want to maximize cabinet space
- Budget-conscious buyers
- DIY installation
Specifications:
- Typically 4-18 inches tall
- Usually 30 or 36 inches wide
- Generally 190-400 CFM
- Often ductless, but ducted options available
Pros:
- Space-efficient design
- Most affordable option
- Easier to install yourself
- Fits standard kitchen layouts
Cons:
- Less coverage area
- Lower ventilation power
- Fewer design options
- May not work for heavy cooking
Wall-Mount Range Hoods
Wall-mount range hoods (also called chimney hoods) attach to the wall above your stove. They include a chimney that covers the ductwork.
Best For:
- People who cook frequently
- Those who want a design statement
- High-heat cooking methods
- Larger kitchens
Specifications:
- Typically 24-29 inches tall
- Usually 30-42 inches wide
- Generally 300-600+ CFM
- Most are ducted, some convertible
Pros:
- More powerful ventilation
- Greater coverage area
- Variety of designs and finishes
- Can be a kitchen focal point
Cons:
- Takes up cabinet space
- More expensive
- Requires professional installation
- Needs more wall space
Island Range Hoods
Island range hoods hang from the ceiling above a cooktop on a kitchen island or peninsula.
Best For:
- Open kitchen layouts
- Island or peninsula cooktops
- Modern kitchen designs
Specifications:
- Suspended from ceiling
- Usually 36-42 inches wide
- Typically 400-1200 CFM (need higher power)
- Available in various styles (glass, metal, traditional)
Pros:
- Only option for island cooktops
- Provides ventilation without walls
- Makes a design statement
- Effective for open spaces
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Complex installation through ceiling
- Ductwork runs through ceiling
- Requires higher CFM rating
Island hoods need more power than wall-mounted hoods. This is because they don’t have walls to help direct air toward the hood.
Understanding CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute)
CFM measures how much air a range hood can move in one minute. Higher CFM means more powerful ventilation.
CFM Requirements
For Electric Stoves:
- Light cooking: 150-250 CFM
- Regular cooking: 250-350 CFM
For Gas Stoves:
- Standard cooking: 250-400 CFM
- Frequent cooking: 400-600 CFM
- High-BTU stoves: 600+ CFM
CFM Calculation for Gas Stoves: Total BTUs ÷ 100 = Minimum CFM needed
Example: A gas stove with 50,000 BTUs needs at least 500 CFM.
Other Factors Affecting CFM Needs
Kitchen Size: Larger kitchens need more CFM to move air effectively.
Cooking Style: Heavy cooking with lots of frying, grilling, or stir-frying needs higher CFM.
Duct Length: Longer duct runs reduce efficiency. Add 1 CFM for each foot of ductwork and 25 CFM for each elbow in the duct.
Island Installations: Island hoods need 50-100 CFM more than wall-mounted hoods.
Remember: More CFM usually means more noise. Balance your ventilation needs with acceptable noise levels.
Noise Levels and Sones
Range hood noise is measured in sones. Understanding sones helps you choose a hood that isn’t too loud.
What Are Sones?
Sones measure perceived loudness. The scale is linear, meaning 2 sones sounds twice as loud as 1 sone.
Sone Level Guide:
- 1-2 sones: Very quiet (like a refrigerator or quiet office)
- 3-4 sones: Moderate (normal conversation level)
- 5-6 sones: Noticeable (busy restaurant or electric fan)
- 7-8 sones: Loud (highway traffic)
- 9-10 sones: Very loud (vacuum cleaner)
Choosing the Right Noise Level
For Open Kitchens: Look for 1-4 sones. These won’t disrupt conversation or entertaining.
For Standard Kitchens: 4-6 sones is acceptable for most people.
For Heavy Cooking: You may need higher CFM, which often means higher sones. Variable speed controls help manage noise.
Most range hoods operate between 4-8 sones at maximum speed. You won’t always run your hood at full power, so it will usually be quieter during normal use.
Making Range Hoods Quieter
Choose Models With:
- Remote or external blowers (installed outside or in attic)
- Insulated blowers
- Multiple speed settings
- Larger duct sizes (6-8 inches)
Installation Tips:
- Use rigid ductwork instead of flexible
- Keep duct runs as short as possible
- Minimize bends and elbows
- Under-cabinet hoods can be quieter (cabinet acts as sound barrier)
Size and Mounting Height
Width
Your range hood should be at least as wide as your cooktop. For best results, make it 3-6 inches wider on each side.
Common Sizes:
- 24 inches (for compact stoves)
- 30 inches (most common residential size)
- 36 inches (for larger ranges)
- 42-48 inches (for professional ranges)
A wider hood captures more smoke and steam before it escapes into your kitchen.
Mounting Height
Gas Stoves: Install 24-30 inches above the cooking surface. This height captures fumes effectively without interfering with cooking.
Electric Stoves: Install 20-30 inches above the cooking surface. Electric stoves produce less heat, so the hood can be slightly lower.
Never Install:
- Too low (creates safety hazard, may damage hood from heat)
- Too high (reduces ventilation effectiveness)
Always check your specific model’s installation instructions. Different hoods have different requirements.
Important Features to Consider
Lighting
Good lighting helps you see what you’re cooking. Most range hoods include built-in lights.
LED Lights: Most common. Energy-efficient and long-lasting. Bright enough for cooking tasks.
Number of Lights: Two lights minimum for 30-inch hoods. More lights for wider hoods.
Controls
Push Button: Simple and reliable. Most common on budget models.
Touch Controls: Modern look. Easier to clean. Common on mid-range models.
Remote Control: Allows you to adjust settings without reaching up.
Motion/Gesture Control: Turns on automatically when you wave your hand. Convenient when hands are busy or dirty.
Variable Speed Settings
Multiple fan speeds give you control over ventilation and noise.
- Low speed: For simmering and light cooking
- Medium speed: For regular cooking
- High speed: For heavy smoke and steam
- Boost mode: Maximum power for clearing air quickly
Variable speed is essential. It lets you use quieter settings for normal cooking and reserve high power for when you really need it.
Filters
Grease Filters: Capture oil and grease particles. Usually made of aluminum or stainless steel mesh.
- Baffle filters: Most effective, dishwasher safe, easy to clean
- Mesh filters: Less expensive, also dishwasher safe
Charcoal/Carbon Filters: For ductless hoods only. Absorb odors. Must be replaced every 3-6 months. Not washable.
Look for dishwasher-safe filters. This makes maintenance much easier.
Additional Features
Delay Shut-Off: Hood continues running for several minutes after you turn it off. Helps clear remaining smoke and odors.
Auto On/Off: Turns on when it detects heat or steam. Turns off automatically when cooking is done.
Timer: Set how long the hood runs before turning off automatically.
Heat Sensors: Automatically adjusts fan speed based on cooking temperature.
Gas Stoves and Ventilation
If you have a gas stove, proper ventilation is especially important.
Why Gas Stoves Need Better Ventilation
Gas stoves burn natural gas or propane. This combustion process releases:
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Formaldehyde
- Water vapor
- Fine particles (PM 2.5)
These pollutants can cause health problems, especially in poorly ventilated kitchens:
- Respiratory issues
- Headaches
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Aggravation of asthma
Ventilation Requirements
While most residential gas stoves don’t legally require ventilation, experts strongly recommend it.
Minimum Recommendations:
- At least 250-400 CFM for standard gas stoves
- 400-600+ CFM for high-BTU commercial-style ranges
- Ducted hood preferred (removes gases completely)
- Hood mounted 24-30 inches above cooktop
Alternatives if You Can’t Install a Hood
If installing a range hood is impossible:
- Open windows while cooking
- Use ceiling or window fans
- Install a downdraft vent system
- Consider switching to an electric or induction cooktop
However, these alternatives are less effective than a proper range hood.
Installation Considerations
Ducted Installation
Ducted range hoods require ductwork to vent air outside.
Best Practices:
- Shortest, straightest duct run possible
- Use rigid metal ductwork (not flexible)
- 6-8 inch diameter ducts
- Minimize bends (each bend reduces efficiency)
- Exterior vent cap with damper
- Never vent to attic or basement
Vent Location Options:
- Through wall behind hood (easiest, most efficient)
- Through wall to the side
- Through ceiling and roof (for island hoods)
Professional Installation Recommended: Ducted hoods need proper ductwork design, wall or roof penetrations, and electrical connections.
Ductless Installation
Ductless hoods are easier to install.
What You Need:
- Mounting hardware (usually included)
- Electrical connection
- Proper filters installed
Many homeowners can install ductless under-cabinet hoods themselves. Wall-mount hoods may still need professional help due to weight and positioning.
Make-Up Air
High-powered range hoods (over 400 CFM) remove a lot of air from your home. This air needs to be replaced.
Why It Matters: Removing air without replacing it can:
- Depressurize your home
- Cause backdrafting in furnaces and water heaters
- Reduce hood effectiveness
- Create difficulty opening doors
Solutions:
- Open a window while cooking (simple solution)
- Install a make-up air system (required by code in many areas)
- Use a smaller hood (under 400 CFM)
Check local building codes. Many areas require make-up air systems for hoods over 400 CFM.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance keeps your range hood working effectively and extends its life.
Cleaning Schedule
Weekly: Wipe exterior surfaces with damp cloth
Monthly:
- Clean or wash grease filters
- Check for grease buildup inside hood
- Clean fan blades if accessible
Every 3-6 Months:
- Replace charcoal filters (ductless hoods only)
- Deep clean interior surfaces
- Inspect ductwork for buildup (ducted hoods)
How to Clean Grease Filters
Most metal grease filters are dishwasher safe:
- Remove filters from hood
- Place in dishwasher
- Run hot water cycle
- Dry completely before reinstalling
For hand washing:
- Soak in hot water with degreasing dish soap
- Use a soft brush to remove stubborn grease
- Rinse thoroughly
- Dry completely
Never run ductless hoods without filters. This allows grease to build up inside the motor, which can cause fires or damage.
Signs Your Hood Needs Attention
- Takes longer to clear smoke
- Grease visible on filters or hood surface
- Unusual noises
- Reduced airflow
- Strong cooking odors remain after cooking
- Visible grease dripping
Address these issues promptly to prevent damage and maintain effectiveness.
Choosing the Best Range Hood for Your Kitchen
Follow these steps to find the right hood:
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Range hoods range from $100 to over $2,000.
Budget ($100-$300): Under-cabinet ductless hoods with basic features
Mid-Range ($300-$800): Better quality under-cabinet or wall-mount hoods with more features
Premium ($800-$2,000+): High-end wall-mount or island hoods with advanced features
Step 2: Measure Your Space
- Width of your cooktop
- Height from cooktop to ceiling
- Distance from wall to exterior (for ducting)
- Available cabinet space
Step 3: Choose Ducted or Ductless
- Ducted if possible (more effective)
- Ductless if ducting is not feasible
- Convertible if you might move or remodel
Step 4: Select Style
- Under-cabinet for space-saving and budget
- Wall-mount for power and design
- Island for island cooktops only
Step 5: Calculate CFM Needs
- Type of stove (gas needs more CFM)
- Kitchen size
- Cooking style
- BTU output (for gas)
Step 6: Consider Noise Level
- 1-4 sones for open kitchens
- 4-6 sones acceptable for most kitchens
- Variable speed helps manage noise
Step 7: Look for Key Features
- Good lighting (LED preferred)
- Easy-to-use controls
- Multiple fan speeds
- Dishwasher-safe filters
- Delay shut-off
Step 8: Check Reviews and Warranties
Read customer reviews on:
- Actual noise levels
- Effectiveness
- Build quality
- Customer service
Look for warranties covering:
- Parts: At least 1 year
- Motor: 2-5 years preferred
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying a Hood That’s Too Small
Your hood should be at least as wide as your cooktop. Wider is better. Small hoods let smoke and grease escape.
Not Considering Noise
High CFM hoods can be very loud. Check sone ratings before buying. Variable speed settings help manage noise.
Choosing Only Based on Looks
Style matters, but performance matters more. Make sure the hood has adequate CFM and features for your cooking needs.
Forgetting About Ductwork
Installing ductwork later is expensive and difficult. Plan for ducting if at all possible when remodeling.
Ignoring Mounting Height Requirements
Too low creates safety hazards. Too high reduces effectiveness. Follow manufacturer specifications exactly.
Not Using the Hood
Many people have range hoods but never turn them on because they’re too loud or inconvenient. Choose a hood you’ll actually use.
Neglecting Maintenance
Dirty filters reduce effectiveness and can create fire hazards. Clean filters regularly.
Building Codes and Requirements
Range hood requirements vary by location. Check with your local building department.
Common Code Requirements
Residential Homes:
- Range hoods often not required by code
- Some areas require them for gas stoves
- High-powered hoods (over 400 CFM) may require make-up air
- Ductwork must meet fire safety standards
Rental Properties:
- May have stricter requirements
- Check with landlord before installation
Commercial Kitchens:
- Always require ventilation
- Much stricter requirements
- Professional installation required
Insurance Considerations
Some insurance companies require proper ventilation, especially for gas stoves. Check your policy and inform your insurer about any installations.
Failure to meet code requirements can result in:
- Failed home inspections
- Denied insurance claims
- Fines
- Required removal and reinstallation
Always get proper permits for installations requiring ductwork or electrical work.
Top Features to Look For
When shopping, prioritize these features:
- Adequate CFM for your stove type and cooking style
- Acceptable noise level (check sones rating)
- Proper size (at least as wide as your cooktop)
- Ducted capability (even if using as ductless initially)
- Multiple fan speeds for noise and energy control
- Good lighting (LED preferred)
- Dishwasher-safe filters for easy maintenance
- Solid warranty (especially for motor)
- Easy-to-use controls you’ll actually operate
- Quality construction (stainless steel preferred)
Final Thoughts
A range hood is not just an accessory. It’s a vital appliance that protects your home and health.
The best range hood for you depends on your kitchen layout, cooking style, and budget. Take time to measure your space, understand your needs, and research options.
Don’t let your range hood be an afterthought. Choose one with adequate power, acceptable noise levels, and features you’ll use. Install it correctly at the right height. Maintain it regularly.
