10 Things to Consider When Buying a Range Hood

Cooking in the kitchen is all about comfort. Whether you're making a meal for one or dishing up a feast for your family, the kitchen should be an oasis of freshness and convenience. That's why a range hood is essential to any modern kitchen.

Range hoods keep your busy cooking space smelling fresh by eliminating smoke and odors that would otherwise waft around the house. Whether it's a traditional canopy-style hood, a modern chimney-style hood, or something else, you'll want to pick one that fits your kitchen and lifestyle perfectly.

Here are ten things to consider when choosing the best range hood for your Kitchen.

1. Size & Layout

Range hoods come in all shapes and sizes, making them ideal for any kitchen. When shopping for a range hood, you'll want to choose a range hood that complements the size and layout of your kitchen. Consider an under-cabinet-style range hood or a slide-out range hood if you have a small, narrow galley kitchen. A wall-mounted chimney range hood or a downdraft range hood may be the perfect choice for larger kitchens with island cooktops.

2. Installation

Before you pick out a range hood, ensure to assess whether it's something that can easily be installed in your kitchen. Remember that certain range hoods, such as island-mounted and wall-mounted styles, will require professional installation. You'll also need to ensure your kitchen has the appropriate ductwork and venting for the range hood.

3. Noise Levels

Range hoods have different noise levels (measured in sones) depending on their power and configuration. An ideal kitchen range hood should not be too loud but powerful enough to suck up smoke and odors effectively. Look for a range hood with noise levels in the 1-4 sone range.

4. Power & Performance

Range hoods come in various power levels, from basic models with 300 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to more powerful models reaching 1200 CFM. It's important to pick a range hood with adequate power for the size of your kitchen, as a larger kitchen will require higher CFMs.

5. Light & Fan Controls

Good range hoods come equipped with adjustable fan speeds and lighting controls. You should look for a model that allows you to customize fan speed and lighting settings for different cooking tasks. This way, you can quickly change the fan speed and brightness to create the perfect atmosphere for your cooking needs.

6. Ducting & Ventilation System

Most range hoods require an external vent or a ductwork system to function properly. When selecting a range hood, ensure it is compatible with your current ducting or ventilation system. It's also important to remember that some models require additional modifications, such as installing a charcoal filter for recirculation purposes.

7. Filtration & Maintenance

Range hoods come with different filtration systems, such as mesh, carbon, and baffle filters. Mesh and carbon filters are the most common filters used in range hoods, while baffle filters are more effective at trapping grease particles. Depending on your cooking preferences and habits, you'll want to choose a filter system that is easy to clean and maintain.

8. Energy Efficiency

You don't want to end up with a range hood that will drive your utility bills through the roof. That's why looking for models with high energy-efficiency ratings, such as those certified by Energy Star, is important. Some range hoods have LED lights that use up to 85% less energy than standard bulbs.

9. Design & Aesthetics

Range hoods are more than just an appliance - they can be a beautiful design element in your kitchen, too. Consider your kitchen's overall style and color when choosing a range hood that will match the rest of the decor. To add a unique touch, you can also look for range hoods with custom inserts, such as glass or stainless steel.

10. Price Point

Your budget is an important factor when shopping for a range hood. Basic models can start as low as $50, while professional-grade range hoods can easily cost a few hundred dollars. Think about how much you're willing to spend, and also consider the cost of installation when determining your budget.

Upgrade Your Kitchen with Edesia Kitchen & Bath Studio

Whether you're looking for a homely hood for a personal kitchen or a stylish range hood to compliment your magnificent cooking space, our team at Edesia Kitchen & Bath Studio is here to help you find the perfect range hood for your needs.

With years of experience in commercial and residential design, we provide detailed plans to help save you time and money while keeping your project on schedule and within budget. Visit us or contact us today to learn more about our kitchen remodel services.