Ductless Hood vs. Ducted Hood: What's The Difference?

When it comes to keeping your kitchen free from smoke, odors, and grease, the choice between a ductless hood and a ducted hood is an important one. These two types of kitchen hoods serve the same fundamental purpose, but they operate differently and have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the key differences between ductless hoods and ducted hoods to help you figure out which hood style is best for your kitchen’s ventilation needs.

What is a Ductless Hood?

A ductless hood, also known as a recirculating hood, is a kitchen ventilation system that doesn't require an external duct to expel air outside. Instead, it filters the air through a series of filters before recirculating it back into the kitchen.

What is a Ducted Hood?

On the other hand, a ducted hood, often referred to as an exhaust hood, connects to an external duct system. It expels the contaminated air directly outside the house, effectively removing it from your kitchen.

Ductless Hood vs. Ducted Hood

Installation

When it comes to kitchen hoods, the first factor to consider is the installation process. Let’s go over the installation process for both styles.

• Ductless Hood: One of the primary advantages of a ductless hood is its ease of installation. Since it doesn't require ductwork, it can be installed virtually anywhere in the kitchen with minimal hassle. This makes it a great choice for kitchen remodels or homes where adding ducts is impractical.

• Ducted Hood: Installing a ducted hood can be more complex and costly. It involves creating a pathway for the ductwork to the exterior of the house. However, this option is highly effective in removing pollutants from your kitchen entirely.

Efficiency

The efficiency of a kitchen hood is a crucial aspect that directly impacts its ability to keep your kitchen air clean and free from contaminants. Here is how these two styles typically compare.

• Ductless Hood: While ductless hoods are easy to install, they are generally less efficient at removing airborne contaminants. The air is filtered and recirculated, which means some odors and grease particles may still linger in the kitchen.

• Ducted Hood: Ducted hoods are known for their superior efficiency. They exhaust all the smoke, odors, and grease outdoors, leaving your kitchen air clean and fresh. This is especially beneficial for those who frequently cook strong-smelling or greasy foods

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your chosen kitchen hood, whether ductless or ducted.

• Ductless Hood: Maintaining a ductless hood involves regularly cleaning or replacing the filters. This can be a bit more labor-intensive compared to ducted hoods. You'll need to stay on top of filter maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

• Ducted Hood: Ducted hoods typically require less maintenance since they don't have filters that need frequent cleaning or replacement. The primary maintenance involves checking the ducts for any blockages and ensuring the fan is working correctly.

Noise Level

Noise can be a significant concern for homeowners, and understanding the noise levels associated with different hood types is important for a peaceful kitchen environment.

• Ductless Hood: Ductless hoods tend to be quieter than ducted hoods. The recirculation process dampens the noise generated by the fan and motor, making it a more discreet option for your kitchen.

• Ducted Hood: Ducted hoods can be noisier due to the powerful fans needed to push air through the ducts. However, many modern ducted hood models come with noise-reduction features to mitigate this issue.

Cost

The cost considerations associated with both ductless and ducted hoods play a pivotal role in making the right choice for your kitchen ventilation needs.

• Ductless Hood: Ductless hoods are generally more affordable upfront due to their simpler installation requirements. However, keep in mind the ongoing costs of filter replacement.

• Ducted Hood: Ducted hoods may have a higher initial cost due to the ductwork installation, but they tend to be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you cook frequently.

Shop Ducted and Ductless Hoods

When it comes to finding the perfect vent hood for your kitchen, look no further. Knie is your ultimate destination in Polo and Sterling, Illinois, for high-quality ducted and ductless hoods that will elevate your kitchen's functionality and style. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of hoods, catering to various kitchen sizes, designs, and ventilation needs.

Shop industry-leading brands like Cafe Appliances, GE, KitchenAid, Samsung, and more to discover exactly what you are looking for. Whether you prefer the efficiency of a ducted hood or the convenience of a ductless option, we have it all. Make your kitchen a healthier and more enjoyable space with our ductless, ducted, convertible, and vent hoods today!

Commonly Asked Questions: Ventilation Hoods

Which type of hood is more cost-effective in the long run?
Ducted hoods are often more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you cook frequently, as they provide superior performance and don't require frequent filter replacements.

Do ductless range hoods remove smoke?
Ductless range hoods are designed to remove smoke to some extent. They do this by filtering the air through charcoal or other specialized filters to capture smoke particles. However, it's important to note that they may not be as effective as ducted hoods in completely eliminating smoke, especially in kitchens with heavy smoke production.

Which hood adds a modern look to your kitchen?
If you're looking to add a modern and sleek appearance to your kitchen, both ductless and ducted hoods offer contemporary designs and finishes. Your choice should be based on your kitchen's overall style and your personal preferences for aesthetics.

Are ventilation hoods worth it?
Ventilation hoods are definitely worth it, as they play a crucial role in maintaining air quality, reducing odors, and removing contaminants from your kitchen. They contribute to a healthier indoor environment and can prevent the buildup of grease and grime in your kitchen. The choice between ductless and ducted hoods depends on your specific needs and priorities.

Do I need a vent hood in my kitchen?
Having a vent hood in your kitchen is highly recommended, especially if you do a lot of cooking. Vent hoods help improve air quality, remove smoke, and eliminate cooking odors, enhancing the overall comfort and cleanliness of your kitchen. The type of hood you need (ductless or ducted) depends on your kitchen's layout and your ventilation requirements.

Do ducted hoods use filters?
Yes, ducted hoods can use filters as part of their ventilation system. These filters are typically designed to capture grease and some odor particles before the air is expelled outside through the ductwork. Regular maintenance of these filters ensures the efficient operation of the ducted hood.