How to Choose A Range Hood: Style, Size, & Power Explained

How The Right Range Hood Can Benefit Your Kitchen

The right range hood does more than improve ventilation; it creates a more comfortable and healthier kitchen environment. Whether you're frying, boiling, or simmering, the right hood can dramatically improve your daily routine.

Here’s what a new range hood can do for your kitchen:

• Removes smoke, steam, and airborne grease while you cook
• Reduces lingering food odors and improves indoor air quality
• Keeps cabinets, walls, and surfaces cleaner over time
• Controls heat for a more comfortable cooking environment
• Enhances your kitchen’s style with a modern, streamlined look

Types of Range Hoods: Which Style Suits Your Space?

From compact kitchens to open-concept islands, there’s a range hood style to match your layout and your lifestyle. Below are the most common types, each with its own fit, function, and aesthetic:

Wall-Mounted

Wall-mounted range hoods are installed above the cooktop on a bare wall, a great fit for kitchens without overhead cabinets. They feature a sleek, chimney-style design, creating a focal point in the room while efficiently venting air upward and out.

Under-Cabinet

Under-cabinet hoods tuck neatly beneath existing cabinetry, ideal for smaller kitchens or more traditional layouts. They offer powerful performance without taking up additional space or altering your cabinetry.

Island Hoods

Island range hoods hang from the ceiling to vent cooktops placed in a kitchen island. They’re visible from all angles, and their bold, architectural look adds drama to any open kitchen layout.

Insert/Custom Hoods

Range hood inserts are built into a custom cabinet or decorative enclosure, giving you more control over the final look. This option blends seamlessly with your kitchen design while providing strong ventilation behind the scenes.

Downdraft

Downdraft hoods rise from behind the cooktop and pull air downward, then retract back into the counter when not in use. They’re perfect for minimalist kitchens or island installations where overhead space is limited.

Ducted vs. Ductless Hoods: What's the Difference?

Both ducted and ductless range hoods keep your kitchen air clean, but they work differently. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right call for your kitchen:

Key Features to Look For When Choosing Your Hood

Beyond style and placement, the right range hood should offer the performance, noise level, and convenience that match your cooking habits. Consider the following as you narrow down your options:

• CFM rating: Choose a higher CFM for heavy cooking, especially if you use high-heat or gas burners.
• Noise level (sones): Look for a model that runs quietly, especially in open-concept kitchens.
• Filter type: Consider washable mesh filters for ducted hoods or replaceable charcoal filters for ductless models.
• Lighting: Many hoods offer built-in LED or halogen lighting to brighten your cooktop.
• Smart features: Some models include touch controls, auto shut-off timers, and filter-cleaning reminders.
• Design finish: From stainless steel to glass to custom paneling, your hood can blend in or stand out.
• Size: The hood should be at least as wide as your cooktop, ideally 3 inches wider on each side for maximum coverage.

Installation & Maintenance Considerations

Before choosing a range hood, think about these maintenance and installation requirements:

• Ducting location: Ducted hoods work best when placed near an exterior wall to reduce installation complexity.
• Ceiling height: Taller ceilings may require extension kits for wall-mounted or island hoods.
• Cabinet layout: Under-cabinet and insert hoods need to fit existing cabinetry dimensions.
• Electrical access: Most hoods need a dedicated power source; check your wiring setup in advance.
• Filter access: Choose a model with easily removable filters for routine cleaning.
• Material care: Smooth finishes like stainless steel are easier to wipe down regularly.
• Professional installation: For heavier or high-performance models, you may need professional installation to ensure proper fit and ventilation.