Under Cabinet Range Hood Vs. Wall Mount: What’s the Difference?

Measuring for a range hood involves determining the size and placement of the hood based on the size and location of your cooktop. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Measure the width of your cooktop: This will determine the width of the hood you will need. A range hood should extend at least 3 inches on either side of your cooktop.
• Measure the distance from the cooktop to the ceiling: This will determine the height of the hood you will need, especially if you are using a vented hood that reaches the ceiling.
• Check the height of the hood with your kitchen's cabinet design: The hood should be at least 18 inches above the cooktop, but not higher than 30 inches above. If you have cabinets above your cooktop, you’ll need a specific type of range hood.
• Take note of the location of the nearest vent or duct: If you're planning to vent the range hood to the outside, the hood should be located close to a vent or duct for easy installation.

You should always double-check your measurements and consult the manufacturer's instructions before purchasing a range hood. Hire a professional to install your range hood, especially if you're venting it to the outside, to ensure proper installation and compliance with local building codes.

Installing a range hood is often a complex task that involves electrical wiring, venting, and air ductwork. If you are not familiar with these types of projects, it is recommended that you hire a professional to install your range hood. A professional can ensure that your range hood is installed correctly and safely and that it complies with local building codes.

If you do choose to install a vented range hood yourself, you must read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. You need to have a basic knowledge of electrical wiring, venting, air ductwork, and the necessary tools and equipment.

Installing a non-vented range hood is much easier, and can often be done by someone handy. However, it is still important to follow the instructions so the unit is properly installed and ventilated.

It's generally recommended to clean a range hood every three to six months to help it operate more effectively. How often a range hood needs cleaning depends on how frequently you use your stove. If you use your stove often, you may need to clean your hood monthly.

Here are some tips for cleaning a range hood:

• Clean the filter: Some ducted range hoods use a steel mesh filter that can be wiped clean. Ductless or recirculating range hoods, on the other hand, use charcoal filters to capture grease and other debris. Charcoal filters need to be replaced regularly to ensure the hood runs efficiently.
• Wipe down the exterior: To remove built-up grease from a range hood, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior.
• Clean the fan: Turn off the range hood and unplug it before cleaning the fan, then use a brush or vacuum to clear away dust or grime buildup.
• Clean the ductwork: If your range hood is vented to the outside, clean the ductwork periodically to remove any debris.

Choosing the right size range hood for your kitchen depends on the size and layout of your cooktop, as well as the size of your kitchen. Here are some general guidelines for determining the appropriate size for your range hood:

• Width: The hood should be 6 inches wider than your cooktop, extending out at least 3 inches on either side. This will ensure the hood effectively captures smoke and steam from the cooktop surface.
• Height: The hood should be at least 18 inches above the cooktop, but not higher than 30 inches above. If your hood is too high, it won’t effectively remove particles from the air. If it is too low, you can damage the hood from high-heat cooking. If you have cabinets above your cooktop, you’ll need a specific type of range hood.
• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): CFM measures the amount of air a range hood can move in one minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the hood. A general rule of thumb is to choose a hood with a CFM rating at least twice the size of your cooktop's total BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating.
• Kitchen size: The size of your kitchen will play a role in determining the appropriate size for your range hood. A larger vented hood may be needed in larger kitchens to remove smoke and steam effectively. In smaller kitchens, a small ductless hood may be sufficient.

Choosing the right size range hood for your kitchen depends on the size and layout of your cooktop, as well as the size of your kitchen. Here are some general guidelines for determining the appropriate size for your range hood:

• Width: The hood should be 6 inches wider than your cooktop, extending out at least 3 inches on either side. This will ensure the hood effectively captures smoke and steam from the cooktop surface.
• Height: The hood should be at least 18 inches above the cooktop, but not higher than 30 inches above. If your hood is too high, it won’t effectively remove particles from the air. If it is too low, you can damage the hood from high-heat cooking. If you have cabinets above your cooktop, you’ll need a specific type of range hood.
• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): CFM measures the amount of air a range hood can move in one minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the hood. A general rule of thumb is to choose a hood with a CFM rating at least twice the size of your cooktop's total BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating.
• Kitchen size: The size of your kitchen will play a role in determining the appropriate size for your range hood. A larger vented hood may be needed in larger kitchens to remove smoke and steam effectively. In smaller kitchens, a small ductless hood may be sufficient.

Choosing the right size range hood for your kitchen depends on the size and layout of your cooktop, as well as the size of your kitchen. Here are some general guidelines for determining the appropriate size for your range hood:

• Width: The hood should be 6 inches wider than your cooktop, extending out at least 3 inches on either side. This will ensure the hood effectively captures smoke and steam from the cooktop surface.
• Height: The hood should be at least 18 inches above the cooktop, but not higher than 30 inches above. If your hood is too high, it won’t effectively remove particles from the air. If it is too low, you can damage the hood from high-heat cooking. If you have cabinets above your cooktop, you’ll need a specific type of range hood.
• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): CFM measures the amount of air a range hood can move in one minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the hood. A general rule of thumb is to choose a hood with a CFM rating at least twice the size of your cooktop's total BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating.
• Kitchen size: The size of your kitchen will play a role in determining the appropriate size for your range hood. A larger vented hood may be needed in larger kitchens to remove smoke and steam effectively. In smaller kitchens, a small ductless hood may be sufficient.

Yes, in fact, this is the most common usage for range hoods. Gas stoves can release more grease, moisture, and smoke into the air than electric stoves. A range hood can help keep kitchen air clean and prevent damage to walls and ceilings.

If you choose a ducted or vented range hood, make sure the hood is properly vented to the outside. Otherwise, the hood may not adequately filter dangerous gasses like carbon monoxide from a gas stove.

When buying a range hood, make sure it is the right size and has an adequate CFM rating to filter out the byproducts of your gas stove.

It's always important to check with your local building codes before installing a range hood to ensure that it is installed safely and correctly. Some common regulations include:

• Venting requirements: If you are installing a vented range hood, it must be properly vented to the outside of the building. The vent should be made of metal and should not be obstructed. It also should not terminate under a door or window, as this can cause a backdraft and make it difficult for the hood to remove smoke and steam effectively.
• Electrical requirements: Range hoods typically require electrical power to operate. It's important to ensure that the hood is properly wired and that it meets the electrical code requirements for your area.
• Fire safety: Some building codes may require that a range hood be equipped with a fire suppression system. This is especially important in commercial kitchens, as there is a higher risk of a grease fire.
• Noise level: Some building codes, especially apartments, may have regulations on the noise level of range hoods. It's important to check the hood's noise level (measured in sones) and ensure it meets the requirements. For more information, here's a guide to sone ratings and noise levels for range hoods.
• Clearance: Some building codes may have regulations on the minimum clearance that must be maintained around a range hood, so you must check the dimensions of your hood before installation.