What to Look for in a High-End Range Hood

Are you upgrading your kitchen? Don’t overlook the range hood. It’s not just about looks—a good vent hood keeps your air clean and eliminates odors. Here’s what you should know before picking one.

1. Match the Range Hood to Your Kitchen

Your range hood should work with your kitchen’s layout. Here’s a quick guide:

• Wall-Mounted: Best for ranges against a wall. These can double as a statement piece.

• Under-Cabinet: Tucks neatly under your cabinets to save space.

• Island: Perfect if your cooktop is on an island. These often have eye-catching designs.

• Insert: Fits into custom cabinetry for a seamless look.

• Outdoor: Designed to handle the elements in outdoor kitchens.

Think about your ceiling height, too. You might need a chimney extension if your ceilings are taller than 9 feet.

2. Consider the Power Level

The power of a range hood is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). More CFM means better airflow. To figure out what you need:

• Gas Stoves: Add up the BTUs of your burners and divide by 100. For example, a 60,000 BTU stove needs at least 600 CFM.

• Electric Stoves: Multiply the width of your cooktop by 10. A 36-inch cooktop needs 360 CFM.

• Your Cooking Habits: Do you cook a lot of fried or high-smoke-point foods? Go for higher CFM to handle the extra smoke and odors.

3. Vent Hood Size Matters

A hood that’s too small won’t do its job. For indoor ranges, choose a hood that’s at least 3 inches wider than your cooktop on each side. For outdoor grills, go 6 inches wider.

4. Don’t Ignore Vent Hood Noise

Range hoods can get noisy, but you don’t have to settle for a loud one. Look for models with multiple fan speeds and efficient motors. Some high-end options offer powerful ventilation without the roar. Check the sone rating (lower is quieter) before you buy.

5. Vented or Ductless?

• Vented (Ducted) Hoods: These send smoke and odors outside. Ducted hoods are the most effective option and ideal if you can install ductwork.

• Ductless (Recirculating) Hoods: These use filters to clean the air and recirculate it back into your kitchen. Ductless hoods are easier to install but not as powerful. You’ll also need to replace the filters regularly.

• Convertible Hoods: Not sure if you need vented or ductless? Convertible hoods let you do both. You can set them up to vent outside if you have ductwork or use filters to recirculate the air if you don’t. They’re a great option if you want flexibility.

6. Pick the Right Look

Your ventilation hood should complement your kitchen’s style. Stainless steel is a classic choice—it’s durable and easy to clean. If you want something unique, look into custom finishes or glass designs. Also, check that the interior materials are resistant to grease buildup.

7. Features That Make Life Easier

High-end hoods come with extras that make cooking more enjoyable. Here are some features to consider:

• LED Lighting: Brightens your cooking area while saving energy.

• Smart Features: Some models let you adjust settings from your phone.

• Heat Sensors: Automatically boost fan speed when needed.

• Quiet Mode: Keeps noise low during light cooking.

8. Think About Installation and Cost

Budget for both the range hood and the installation. Professional installation ensures the hood is secure and properly vented. If you’re handy, some models are DIY-friendly. Keep in mind:

• Larger hoods cost more.

• Custom designs and premium features add to the price.

• Adding ductwork can increase installation costs.

Find Your Perfect Range Hood at Knie’s

Ready to upgrade your kitchen’s ventilation? Contact us or visit our appliance store locations in Polo and Sterling, IL, or explore our selection of range hoods and other cooking appliances online. At Knie, we're committed to helping you create the kitchen of your dreams. While you're here, explore our wide selection of refrigerators, dishwashers, mattresses, and outdoor furniture to complete your home.

Related readings from our blog:

• The Benefits of Owning a Dual-Fuel Range

• How to Choose the Best Range for Your Cooking Style

• Gas vs Electric Oven: Which Is Right For You?