Buy Range Hoods Like a Pro: Avoid These Common Mistakes

When it comes to outfitting your kitchen with essential appliances, a range hood is often one of the most important yet overlooked items. A good range hood plays a crucial role in maintaining air quality in your kitchen by venting out smoke, steam, and odors from cooking. However, buying the right range hood can be overwhelming due to the variety of options available. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or simply replacing an old unit, understanding the common mistakes to avoid can help you make an informed purchase that suits your needs and enhances your kitchen environment.

Here are some key considerations to ensure you buy a range hood like a pro, along with common mistakes to avoid.

1. Choosing the Wrong Size

One of the most common mistakes people make when purchasing a range hood is not selecting the correct size. The size of your range hood should correspond to the size of your cooktop or range. A range hood that is too small will struggle to adequately ventilate the kitchen, while one that is too large can dominate the space and be unnecessarily noisy or inefficient.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

To determine the appropriate size, measure the width of your cooktop. The range hood should be at least as wide as your stove or slightly wider. If your stove is 30 inches, a 30-inch range hood is a good choice. However, for larger stoves or ranges, like those with six or more burners, you may want to opt for a larger hood for optimal air circulation.

Additionally, the depth of the hood should ideally match the depth of the range or cooktop. For example, a 24-inch deep cooktop requires a deeper hood to capture all the smoke and steam effectively.

2. Ignoring Airflow Capacity (CFM)

The airflow capacity of a range hood is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). CFM indicates how much air the range hood can move to eliminate smoke, steam, and odors. Choosing a range hood with insufficient CFM can lead to poor ventilation, while a unit with too high a CFM might be excessively loud and expensive.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

A general rule of thumb for determining the right CFM is to choose a range hood with at least 100 CFM for every 12 inches of cooktop width. So, for a 30-inch cooktop, look for a range hood with a CFM between 250 and 400.

Keep in mind that the cooking style and frequency will also affect CFM needs. If you regularly cook with high heat, such as frying or grilling, you might need a higher CFM to keep up with the smoke and steam. Similarly, if you have a large family or entertain frequently, you may want to invest in a more powerful range hood.

3. Neglecting Noise Levels

Many buyers overlook the noise level when shopping for a range hood, only focusing on style, size, and performance. However, the noise produced by a range hood can be quite noticeable, especially in open-concept kitchens or small spaces. A loud range hood can detract from the cooking experience and disrupt conversations.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Check the noise level of the range hood, often indicated in sones or decibels (dB). A quieter unit will be rated between 1-3 sones, while a noisier model may reach 5 or more sones. If noise is a concern, look for models that advertise quiet operation, or opt for a range hood with multi-speed settings, allowing you to adjust the power and noise level according to your needs.

Another consideration is the placement of the range hood. A hood placed too close to the ceiling or the walls might amplify sound, while a well-placed, higher-end unit with sound-dampening features will produce less noise.

4. Not Considering Venting Options

Range hoods come in two basic types of ventilation systems: ducted and ductless (also known as recirculating). Ducted systems expel air outside the home through a vent, while ductless systems filter the air using charcoal filters and return it to the kitchen. While ducted hoods are more efficient, they require installation of venting ducts, which can be complicated and costly.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before you purchase a range hood, assess your kitchen’s layout and the possibility of installing a ducted system. If your kitchen is located near an exterior wall or has easy access to ventilation ducts, a ducted hood is likely the best option. Ducted hoods offer better performance and are particularly suitable for larger kitchens or those with heavy cooking needs.

On the other hand, if you live in an apartment or a space where installing ducts is not feasible, a ductless range hood can be a good alternative. While less effective than ducted systems, modern ductless range hoods have improved filtration technologies, making them suitable for smaller kitchens.

5. Overlooking Design and Aesthetics

A range hood is a central feature of your kitchen’s design. An appliance that doesn’t complement the style of your kitchen can clash with the overall decor. However, many people focus only on functionality and forget to consider how the range hood fits into the aesthetic of the room.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Choose a range hood that suits both your cooking needs and the style of your kitchen. For modern kitchens, a sleek, stainless steel hood may fit well, while for traditional kitchens, a more classic or decorative range hood design might be more appropriate. Range hoods come in many styles, including wall-mounted, under-cabinet, island, and downdraft models, so consider which design works best for your kitchen’s layout.

Additionally, take the color and finish of the range hood into account. Stainless steel is the most popular finish due to its durability and ease of cleaning, but there are also options in matte black, copper, and even custom colors that can match your kitchen’s aesthetic.

6. Forgetting About Maintenance and Cleaning

Like any kitchen appliance, range hoods require regular maintenance and cleaning to keep them working efficiently. Grease and dust accumulate on the filters, which can reduce the unit’s effectiveness over time. Many buyers neglect to consider the ease of cleaning when choosing a range hood.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Choose a range hood with easy-to-clean filters and surfaces. Many hoods come with dishwasher-safe filters, making it easy to keep them clean. For the exterior, look for a model with a smooth surface that can be wiped down without difficulty. If you opt for a ductless hood, remember that the charcoal filters need to be replaced periodically, so consider the cost and availability of replacement filters when making your decision.

Additionally, consider the overall construction of the range hood. Hoods with smooth, curved lines are often easier to clean than those with more intricate designs, which may trap grease and dust.

7. Skipping Professional Installation

While installing a range hood may seem straightforward, it’s essential to ensure proper installation to guarantee that the unit functions efficiently. Improper installation can lead to airflow issues, noise problems, and even safety concerns. Many homeowners attempt to install their range hoods themselves, leading to suboptimal performance.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

For ducted range hoods, it’s advisable to hire a professional to install the unit, particularly if it requires ductwork. A qualified technician will ensure the correct placement, proper sealing of ducts, and compliance with local building codes. Even for ductless models, a professional installer can help with mounting and positioning to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Buy range hoods is a critical decision that affects both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen. By avoiding common mistakes such as choosing the wrong size, neglecting airflow capacity, or overlooking noise levels, you can make a well-informed decision that meets your cooking needs and complements your kitchen design. Consider your venting options, ease of maintenance, and the importance of professional installation to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your range hood. With careful planning, you’ll have a kitchen that’s not only cleaner but more enjoyable to cook in.