When it comes to cooking, we can produce a lot of different smells or smoke and fumes depending on the dish. These may linger in the air or discolour your cabinetry, as well as have negative effects on your health. This is when the range hood comes in handy.
In addition to removing unpleasant odours while cooking, other functions of a range hood include protecting your kitchen wall from grease and even adding a touch of luxury to your kitchen design.
1. Range hood size: Things to consider
Space
Space is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a range hood, as it must fit snugly above your stove. Before diving into the selection process, take precise measurements of the available space to streamline your search.
One that suits your stove
It’s essential to match the width of the range hood to that of your stove, or opt for a slightly larger size. This ensures optimal extraction of smoke and fumes during cooking. Selecting a hood that is too small may lead to inadequate ventilation, resulting in lingering odors, fumes, or even triggering smoke alarms.
2. Types of range hoods
Wall-mounted hoods
Wall-mounted range hoods, often seen in commercial kitchens, serve as a striking focal point in any home kitchen. Positioned openly and not integrated into cabinetry, these canopy hoods are not for those who prefer appliances to blend discreetly into the background.
Ideal for:
- Large kitchens
- Entertainers
- Sizes: 60-90cm
Integrated range hoods
Integrated range hoods, also known as concealed, built-in, or undermount range hoods, offer a seamless and discreet solution for kitchens of various sizes. Their ability to blend seamlessly into any kitchen aesthetic makes them a popular choice among homeowners.
Ideal for:
- Small to medium families
- Seamless kitchen design
- Apartment living
- Sizes: 50-86cm
Slide-out range hoods
Slide-out range hoods, also known as retractable range hoods, operate by sliding in and out. While they may not be as powerful as canopy range hoods, they offer seamless integration into kitchen cabinetry.
Ideal for:
- Small to medium families
- Apartment living
3. Range hood design & other considerations
Ducted or Recirculating
When selecting a range hood, you have two circulation options: ducted or recirculating. A ducted range hood expels air outside the kitchen through piping. If ducting is not possible, a recirculating range hood cleans the air with filters before reintroducing it into the kitchen. However, recirculating hoods are less powerful and require more frequent filter replacements.
Power or Extraction Rate
The power or extraction rate of a range hood is measured in m3/hour. Higher extraction rates indicate greater air removal. Consider your cooking habits; for heavy-duty cooking like wok frying, opt for a rate exceeding 700m3/hour.
Noise
In open-plan living spaces, range hood noise can disturb activities like TV watching. Choose a range hood with a motor installed in the roof rather than within the unit to minimize noise in the kitchen.
Filters
Range hoods come with various types of filters. Ducted models typically feature aluminum filters, which require regular hand cleaning or dishwasher washing. Recirculating hoods use carbon filters to remove impurities from the air. When these filters reach the end of their lifespan, they must be replaced with new ones.
Conclusion
Selecting the right range hood involves considering several factors such as space constraints, circulation options, extraction rates, noise levels, and filter types. By carefully evaluating these aspects in relation to your kitchen layout and cooking habits, you can choose a range hood that not only complements your kitchen design but also effectively removes cooking odors, grease, and smoke. Whether you opt for a wall-mounted hood, integrated hood, or slide-out hood, ensuring regular maintenance and proper installation will maximize its performance and longevity.
Investing in a high-quality range hood is essential for maintaining a clean and comfortable kitchen environment while enhancing the overall cooking experience. With the right range hood in place, you can enjoy cooking without worrying about lingering odors, grease buildup, or excessive noise. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern design or a more discreet integrated option, there are range hood solutions available to suit every kitchen style and preference.
