When it comes to maintaining a clean and fresh kitchen, a high-quality range hood is essential. These powerful appliances don’t just remove smoke and odours; they also filter out grease and other airborne particles, ensuring your kitchen remains a pleasant place to cook and entertain.
Choosing the best range hood can be overwhelming with so many options available. From sleek wall-mounted designs to discreet under-cabinet models, there’s something to suit every kitchen style and budget. This guide will help you navigate the key features and top picks, making your decision easier and more informed.
Top Amazon Sellers
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
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SIA CHL60BL 60cm Pyramid Chimney Cooker Hood Kitchen Extractor Fan In Black, 5… | £64.99 £59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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CIARRA Cooker Hood 60cm CBCB6201 600mm Kitchen Extractor Hood with Carbon… |
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COMFEE’ 60 cm Visor Cooker Hood SLIF17B-60 LED Extractor Hood Under Cabinet Hood… |
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Key Takeaways
- Essential Kitchen Appliance: Range hoods are vital for maintaining a clean and fresh kitchen by removing smoke, odours, grease, and other airborne particles.
- Variety of Types: There are several options including under cabinet, wall mount, island, convertible, ceiling mount, microwave, and downdraft range hoods to suit different kitchen layouts and aesthetic preferences.
- Ducted vs. Ductless: Ducted range hoods expel air outside and are more efficient in air removal, while ductless hoods recirculate filtered air, making them suitable for spaces lacking external vents.
- Key Buying Factors: When selecting a range hood, consider the kitchenโs layout and size, cooking style, vent type, airflow capacity (CFM), and noise level to ensure it meets your specific needs.
- Top Picks for 2024: The best range hoods combine powerful airflow (ideally above 400 CFM), low noise levels (below 60 decibels), and aesthetically pleasing designs to effectively enhance any kitchen space.
What is a Range Hood?
A range hood, also known as an extractor hood or cooker hood, is an essential kitchen appliance designed to improve air quality. It removes smoke, odours, grease, and airborne particles produced during cooking. Positioned above the stove or cooktop, it uses a fan to draw in contaminated air, which is either expelled outside through ductwork or recirculated after passing through filters in ductless models.
Range hoods come in various styles to suit different kitchen designs. Wall-mounted, under-cabinet, and island range hoods are common types, catering to diverse aesthetics and functional needs. They contribute to a cleaner environment, preventing grease buildup on walls and cabinets while ensuring fresh and pleasant air in the kitchen. Investing in the best range hoods promotes a healthier and more enjoyable cooking space.
Types of Range Hoods
Several types of range hoods cater to different kitchen layouts and functional needs. Each type provides unique features and benefits.
Under Cabinet Range Hoods
Under cabinet range hoods fit beneath kitchen cabinets, saving space. They connect to ductwork through the wall or ceiling, offering efficient ventilation in compact areas.
Wall Mount Range Hoods
Wall mount range hoods attach directly to the wall above the hob. They serve as focal points in the kitchen, providing powerful ventilation for larger cooking areas.
Island Range Hoods
Island range hoods hang from the ceiling over kitchen islands. They’re ideal for open-plan layouts, offering extensive ventilation and often featuring elaborate designs.
Convertible Range Hoods
Convertible range hoods can switch between ducted and ductless modes. They’re versatile options, accommodating various kitchen configurations and providing flexible installation.
Ceiling Mount Range Hoods
Ceiling mount range hoods integrate into the ceiling, giving a discreet appearance. They offer strong ventilation for open kitchens, maintaining a clean aesthetic.
Microwave Range Hoods
Microwave range hoods combine ventilation and microwave functionality. They provide efficient use of space, making them suitable for smaller kitchens.
Downdraft Range Hoods
Downdraft range hoods retract into the countertop when not in use. They pull air downward, making them ideal for kitchens with limited overhead space or where a minimal look is desired.
Ducted vs. Ductless Range Hoods
Choosing between ducted and ductless range hoods depends on the specific needs of the kitchen. Ducted range hoods expel air outside through a dedicated duct, making them effective for removing smoke, odours and grease. These are ideal for kitchens where exterior venting is feasible. In contrast, ductless range hoods recirculate the air through filters, purifying it before releasing it back into the kitchen. These are suitable for spaces where external venting isn’t possible.
Advantages of Ducted Range Hoods
- Efficient Air Removal: Ducted range hoods remove airborne particles and odours more effectively.
- Lower Maintenance: They require less frequent filter changes compared to ductless units.
- Better Ventilation: Optimal for larger kitchen spaces needing robust ventilation.
- Flexible Installation: They can be installed in any kitchen without the need for external venting.
- Energy Efficiency: They help in energy conservation by reducing the need for heating and cooling adjustments.
- Cost-Effective: Installation typically incurs lower costs since there’s no need for ductwork.
Both types of range hoods contribute to maintaining a clean, fresh kitchen environment, fitting diverse needs in pursuit of the best range hoods for any home.
Factors to Consider When Buying
Choosing the best range hood involves multiple considerations to ensure it matches the kitchen’s requirements and preferences.
Kitchen Layout and Size
A suitable range hood depends on the kitchen’s design and dimensions. For smaller kitchens, under-cabinet hoods save space, whereas wall-mounted and island hoods serve larger areas effectively.
Cooking Style
Select a range hood based on cooking habits. Frequent use of high-temperature cooking or fryers demands a model with strong ventilation to manage smoke and odours.
Vent Type
Decide between ducted and ductless models. Ducted range hoods expel air outside, providing efficient air removal, while ductless models recirculate filtered air, suitable for spaces without external vents.
Airflow Capacity
Check the hood’s airflow capacity, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). High CFM values are essential for heavy cooking or larger kitchens to ensure efficient ventilation.
Noise Level
Consider the noise level, as high-powered hoods can be loud. Choose models with low decibel ratings to maintain a quiet kitchen atmosphere while ensuring adequate ventilation.
Top Recommendations
Selecting the best range hoods focuses on combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. A top-rated option should have a powerful airflow capacity, ideally above 400 cubic feet per minute (CFM), ensuring efficient removal of smoke and odours. Noise level is another priority, with quieter models operating below 60 decibels to maintain a peaceful kitchen environment.
For under-cabinet hoods, look for compact designs that save space while offering strong ventilation. Wall-mounted models serve as stylish centrepieces, providing robust performance above the hob. Island range hoods, suited for open-plan kitchens, hang from the ceiling, delivering extensive coverage.
Convertible range hoods, with their versatility, switch between ducted and ductless modes, catering to changing needs. Ceiling-mounted options blend seamlessly into the ceiling for a minimalist look. For those needing dual functionality, microwave range hoods combine ventilation with microwave use, ideal for smaller kitchens.
Focusing on the best range hoods for specific kitchen layouts and preferences, one should consider downdraft models that retract into the countertop, suitable for spaces with limited overhead room. Prioritising a combination of airflow, noise levels, and kitchen fit ensures selecting the most effective and aesthetically pleasing range hood for any home.
Conclusion and Top Picks
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
SIA CHL60BL 60cm Pyramid Chimney Cooker Hood Kitchen Extractor Fan In Black, 5… | £64.99 £59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
CIARRA Cooker Hood 60cm CBCB6201 600mm Kitchen Extractor Hood with Carbon… |
£99.99
£93.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
COMFEE’ 60 cm Visor Cooker Hood SLIF17B-60 LED Extractor Hood Under Cabinet Hood… |
£45.99
£39.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
FIREGAS Chimney Cooker Hood 60 cm, 3 Fand Speeds, 335 mยณ/h,Touch… |
£69.99
£53.15 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
FIREGAS 60cm Visor Cooker Hood LED Extractor Hood Under Cabinet Hood Wall… |
£60.99
£44.95 |
Buy on Amazon |
Choosing the best range hood for your kitchen involves balancing functionality and design. With so many options available, it’s crucial to consider your kitchen layout, cooking habits, and ventilation needs. Whether opting for an under-cabinet, wall-mounted, island, or convertible range hood, each type offers unique benefits tailored to specific requirements.
A powerful airflow capacity and low noise levels are essential for effective and quiet operation. Considering these factors will ensure you select a range hood that keeps your kitchen clean and fresh while complementing your home’s aesthetic. Prioritising these aspects will lead to a healthier and more enjoyable cooking environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are expensive range hoods worth it?
Yes, investing in a high-quality range hood can be worth it. They offer efficient ventilation, better durability, and can save costs on interior repairs and health issues caused by poor air quality.
What is the life expectancy of a range hood?
On average, a range hood lasts between 12 to 18 years. Proper maintenance can extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains effective for longer.
Which type of kitchen hood is better?
Ducted range hoods are generally considered more effective at removing smoke, odours, and grease by venting the air outside. However, ductless models offer flexible installation and are suitable for spaces without external venting.
What is the disadvantage of range hood?
Range hoods can be noisy, especially models with higher fan power. They can also increase humidity levels in the kitchen and may require regular maintenance, such as filter replacement or cleaning.
How powerful should my range hood be?
The range hood’s power should be at least 100 CFM for every 10,000 BTUs of your stove. For a 100,000 BTU stove, a 1000 CFM range hood is recommended. For electric stoves, multiply the stove’s width in inches by 10 to determine the required CFM.
