A Rundown on Range Hoods

Decorative Accessories

A Rundown on Range Hoods: What to Know Before You Buy

Range hoods make a bold design statement in today’s kitchens, but they also play a vital role in maintaining air quality and comfort in your cooking space. Installed above a cook top or range, they act as an exhaust fan by venting steam and cooking odors out or recirculating filtered air back into your kitchen. Choosing the right range hood depends on factors such as kitchen layout, cooking habits, ventilation type, and aesthetic preferences. Compare styles and find your ideal kitchen hood.

Wall Mount and Canopy Range Hoods– The focal point of your kitchen with superior ventilation

Wall mount range hoods are installed directly on the wall above a cook top or range and are one of the most popular choices for kitchens without overhead cabinetry. Some are designed to be standalone, while canopy styles are mounted between two cabinets. These hoods combine strong ventilation performance with a visually striking focal point. Wall mount range hoods are typically ducted to vent air outside, making them very effective at removing smoke, grease, and odors. Available in a wide range of widths, finishes, and styles—from a sleek modern stainless steel range hood to more decorative wood range hood designs—they suit both standard and professional-style ranges. Their placement allows for higher airflow capacity and better capture area, making them ideal for frequent or high-heat cooking.

Best for large, open kitchens; grease, smoke and odor control, and frequent cooking

Pros:

Strong ventilation and air quality with ducted range hoods
Stylish and designed to be the focal point of your kitchen
Due to larger size and power, they provide wider coverage than other options
Flexible mounting allows higher installation with more room for cooking

Cons:

Higher cost for both the unit and installation (requires ductwork)
A large footprint – may take up premium wall space in your kitchen
Installation complexity – should be installed by a professional due to required ductwork and electrical
Noise level – wall mount range hoods have a strong motor that can be more noticeable especially on high settings

Clayton Painted Black with a Straight Valance Range Hood

Under Cabinet Vent Hoods– The best range hoods for space saving efficiency

Under cabinet vent hoods are installed beneath existing kitchen cabinets directly above electric or gas cooktops, making them a practical and space-efficient ventilation solution. They are especially popular in kitchens with limited space or where a clean look is desired. These hoods can be ducted to vent air outside or configured for ductless operation, offering flexibility for different kitchen layouts. Under-cabinet hoods are available in a range of sizes, airflow capacities, and styles; from basic functional models to more powerful designs with enhanced lighting and multiple fan speeds. While typically more compact than wall-mounted or island range hoods, they provide effective everyday ventilation and integrate seamlessly into most standard kitchen designs.

Best for small kitchens and light to moderate cooking

Pros:

Lower cost for both unit and installation
Space efficient – located just below the cabinet above the cook top area
Easier installation – due to generally having a ductless design, can be a DIY installation if electrical is present
Blends with kitchen design

Cons:

Less powerful due to recirculating range hood motor
Smaller coverage area, generally right below the unit
Clearance Restrictions – some undercabinet hoods or microwave hood combinations do not offer the expanded height clearance for large pots
Performance varies by vent type – typically ductless with a recirculating air option

Canyon Duraform Breeze with a Hood Valance

Built In or Insert Hoods– For a sleek, custom look

Insert, or built-in range hoods are designed to be installed inside cabinetry or decorative enclosures, providing powerful ventilation while maintaining a seamless, integrated kitchen aesthetic. The hood fan insert contains the functional components—fan, filters, and lighting—while the surrounding cabinet or range hood cover is customized to match the kitchen design. These hoods are most often ducted for optimal performance, though some models offer ductless options. Ventilation hood inserts are available in various sizes and airflow capacities, making them suitable for both standard and high-performance gas stove tops. Their concealed design makes them an ideal choice for homeowners who want effective ventilation without a visible appliance dominating the space.

Best for gourmet kitchens of any size and moderate to frequent cooking

Pros:

Offers a seamless, custom look
Space saving - unit is installed within a cabinet or range hood cover
Quieter operation than wall mounted designs
Customizable performance options – choose ducted or ductless

Cons:

Higher cost – the unit and cabinetry or range hood cover must be purchased
More complex installation – may need to be custom fit which requires professional installation
Maintenance can be difficult due to narrower access to filters and parts
Less visible design features – if you are looking for a statement piece

Durango Painted Pewter Glaze with Box Fillers and Decorative Panels

Options For Islands

Ceiling Mount

Ceiling mount range hoods are installed on the ceiling above cook tops, usually located at kitchen islands, where no wall or cabinetry is available for support. Because they are exposed on all sides, these hoods typically feature higher airflow capacity and bold, decorative designs to effectively capture smoke and odors while serving as a visual centerpiece in the kitchen.

Downdraft

Downdraft range hoods are installed behind or beside the cook top and pull smoke, steam, and odors downward rather than up, making them a good solution when overhead ventilation is not possible. They are commonly used in island or open-concept kitchens and can retract into the countertop when not in use.

Choosing Between Ducted and Ductless

Ducted and ductless vent hoods differ mainly in how they handle cooking air.

Ducted Range Hoods: Smoke, steam, grease, and odors are moved outside the home through ductwork.

An effective option for improving air quality, especially for frequent or high-heat cooking
Proper ducting is required and typically costs more to install

Ductless Range hoods: Air is filtered and recirculated back into the kitchen through charcoal or carbon filters

Easier and less expensive to install - ideal for apartments or homes without exterior range hood vents
Less effective at removing heat, moisture, smoke, steam, grease or odors and require regular filter replacement to maintain performance

Consider the Technical Specifications

Range hood performance is primarily defined by airflow, fan speeds, and sound levels, all of which determine how effectively and comfortably the hood operates.

What is CFM in fans? CFM is an airflow measurement of cubic feet per minute, this measurement is used to indicate how much air the vent fan can move.

Higher CFM ratings are better for gas cooktops, high-heat cooking, or frequent frying
Most kitchen range hoods offer multiple fan speeds, allowing users to select lower, quieter settings for light cooking and higher speeds for heavy smoke or odors
Sound levels are typically measured in sones or decibels, with lower numbers indicating quieter operation
Because the fuel source determines the size of the blower system, make sure to check with the cooking appliance manufacturer to understand the CFM requirements

Evaluate the Extra Features Offered

In addition to basic ventilation, many range hoods offer extra features that enhance convenience.

Integrated lighting—often LED—provides clear illumination of the cooking surface while using minimal energy
Heat or steam sensors that automatically adjust fan speed, as well as timer or delayed shut-off functions to continue clearing the air after cooking
Other common features include dishwasher-safe filters, filter-cleaning indicators, remote controls, and smart connectivity for app or voice control

Get Ready for Install

When to Hire a Professional

New ductwork, electrical work, or major modifications are needed
Professional help is always recommended to meet electrical, ducting, and code requirements

When DIY is Possible

DIY may be possible when existing ductwork will not be altered or when ductless venting systems are in place
Check all requirements: electrical needs, ducting, clearances, and local codes and confirm that ductwork is compatible with the vent
Make sure to confirm the capacity of the HVAC system and its compatibility with the new vent prior to purchasing

Make Sure to Measure

Identify the size and location of your cook top or range, as the range hood should be at least as wide as the cooking surface to ensure proper coverage
Measure the width of the range, then determine the recommended mounting height—typically 24 to 30 inches above the cooktop for electric ranges and 30 to 36 inches for gas ranges – reference the appliance specifications to confirm the height clearance
Measure for space to the left and right sides of the cooking surface to ensure there is enough room allotted for landing space. Refer to the NKBA guidelines for more information.
Measure the available space for depth and height, especially for wall-mounted or under-cabinet installations, to confirm the hood will fit without interfering with cabinets or ceilings
Note the location of ducting and electrical connections, as these measurements help ensure proper alignment and efficient ventilation performance

Hood Cleaning and Upkeep

Range hood filters, trim, panels and other parts are key components that must be maintained regularly to manage both performance and appearance.

Filters—typically aluminum mesh, baffle, or charcoal—capture grease, smoke, and odors, with some models offering dishwasher-safe or easily replaceable options
Trim kits and panels are used to cover gaps, create a seamless look, or integrate the hood into cabinetry, especially for insert or built-in models
All parts should be cleaned or replaced as recommended by the manufacturer
Exterior surfaces should be wiped down regularly to prevent grease buildup
Ducted systems benefit from occasional inspections to ensure vents remain clear

Range Hood Type Comparison Tool

**Always review appliance specifications and any code requirements before purchasing

1951 Cabinetry offers many options for adding a new range hood to your kitchen

Explore all of our range hood styles at https://1951cabinetry.com/all-products/decorative-accessories. Better yet, use our distributor locater and discover where to buy 1951 Cabinetry near you. You can also follow 1951 Cabinetry on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest to be the first to find out about new products and fresh design ideas!

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