Everything you need to know about under cabinet range hood

If you are during a kitchen remodel or planning to update some old appliances to suit your kitchen layout better, a range hood is a must-have item. Also known as a range hood, it is an often-overlooked functional and aesthetic kitchen element. 

Range hoods are available in various materials, configurations, styles, and finishes. Depending on the layout of your cooking area, you can install your hood under your cabinets or directly above your stove. 

Regardless of the range variety you choose, it must meet your ventilation needs and function as intended. If you are eager for a breath of fresh air, continue reading to learn about the several types of range hoods and the distinctive features that will make your kitchen stand out. 

What is an Under Cabinet Range Hood? 

A range hood is a versatile kitchen appliance that removes heat, smoke, combustion byproducts, and airborne grease that may result from cooking or experimenting with various recipes. Range hoods are available in multiple styles and designs, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and kitchen.  

Under cabinet range hoods are one of the most frequently installed vents in contemporary kitchens. They are mounted beneath the bottom of a wall cabinet, with ductwork concealed within an adjacent wall, soffit, or ceiling. This article provides a comprehensive overview of under-cabinet range hoods by examining their distinguishing characteristics, operation, and benefits. 

Unique Characteristics of Under Cabinet Range Hoods 

Under-cabinet range hoods are typically installed below a kitchen cabinet, as the name suggests. This range hood’s primary function is to ventilate your kitchen by removing smoke, steam, heat, and odors from frequent cooking or food preparation. When installing under cabinet range hoods, you must consider the height of your cabinets, as well as the width and depth of the hood. Because it will be closer to the steam and heat, a very low-range hood will likely result in a more significant loss of headroom. 

Installing it too high can also diminish its ability to remove airborne grease, smoke, and combustion byproducts from the kitchen. You may want to search for a range hood with a deeper depth, as these provide greater CFMs. The recommended width for optimal ventilation is two to three inches on each side of the range hood. It is essential to clean the range hood’s filter periodically, as grease and airborne particles that accumulate over time can reduce the range hood’s effectiveness. 

How Does an Under Cabinet Range Hood Work? 

Either ducted or ductless range hoods can be installed beneath a kitchen cabinet. Ducted range hoods exhaust air to the home’s exterior, whereas ductless range hoods filter contaminated air before recirculating it into the kitchen. Installing under-cabinet range hoods is simple if the cabinetry and ductwork are already in place. As they must configure the vent from your kitchen to the exterior of your home, installing a ducted under-cabinet range hood may require a professional’s extensive knowledge and experience. 

Different models of under-cabinet range hoods may operate differently depending on their efficiency and mode of operation. A typical under-cabinet hood extends approximately halfway across the stove to direct smoke and steam away from the cabinet doors and toward the suction end of the hood. This design is ideal for those who cannot achieve the recommended distance between the hood and stove using a standard under-cabinet hood. When you need to use the hood, sleek models allow you to slide it out from the upper kitchen cabinet. When the range hood is not in use, it is easier to reach the upper cabinets without obstruction. 

Under-cabinet range hoods typically feature potent fans that trap and absorb grease to prevent combustion byproducts from accumulating on cabinets or kitchen appliances. When purchasing a range hood, it is also essential to consider the fan speed and noise level, as these factors determine its efficiency and level of user comfort. 

Under cabinet Range Hood Benefits 

Improves ventilation in the kitchen 

Grease, combustion byproducts, smoke, and heat are some impurities released into the air by stovetop cooking. All these contaminants can have a substantial effect on your health, as well as the health of your family members who are exposed to airborne toxins. An under-cabinet range hood improves ventilation by removing contaminants released into the air during food preparation. 

Enhances the Look of Your Kitchen 

An under-cabinet range hood makes cleaning cabinets and kitchen appliances easier by capturing cooking-related smoke and airborne particles. They also come in various styles and designs, allowing you always to find one that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic. However, stainless steel is one of the most popular materials for range hoods because it is aesthetically pleasing and highly resilient. 

Under-cabinet range hoods remove airborne grease and combustion byproducts from the cooking area and promote kitchen cleanliness. Cleaning and maintaining your range hood regularly improve its ability to remove heat and contaminated air from your kitchen. 

How Should A Greasy Range Hood Be Cleaned? 

Range Hood Is An Underappreciated Appliance 

A range hood is an undervalued appliance because it is rarely maintained. Guests who pay an unannounced visit may see you disapproving if you have neglected to clean this essential kitchen fan. 

The oven hood’s primary function is to remove all smoke from the kitchenette. It functions as an exhaust fan and vastly improves your air quality. 

Due to the greasy stainless-steel filters, a smoke blockage may occur if this remains uncleaned. Additionally, a greasy range hood can contribute to an unpleasant aroma in the kitchen. 

Your range hood appears greasy. Not to worry! Check out these helpful hints for making your oven hood appear brand-new. 

Considerations when purchasing a rangehood 

Size 

The first step is to measure the width of your cooktop. In general, the rangehood width should match the width of the cooktop. 

Then you must measure the space above your stove. Before purchasing a range hood, verify that it will fit the available space by examining its dimensions. Please remember to measure before purchasing carefully! 

Appliances Online can coordinate an installation with a team of licensed experts. Please visit our installation details page for further details. 

Ducted range hoods 

A ducted range hood exhausts air from the kitchen (via the wall or ceiling) outside the home through a metal duct. This is the most efficient method for deodorizing your kitchen. To install the ducting pipe, a builder must make a hole in the wall or ceiling. In some cases, this may not be possible. 

Recirculating range hoods 

Recirculating range hoods filter air and recirculate it back into the kitchen after removing impurities. They do this with carbon filters that must be periodically replaced (depending on how often you use your rangehood). 

The benefit of recirculating range hoods is that a duct pipe through the wall or ceiling is unnecessary. However, they lack the same level of strength. 

Extraction rate 

Extraction rate refers to the ability of a rangehood to draw in air. Models with increased extraction rates will expel more air, making them highly effective. 

A rangehood’s extraction rate is measured in cubic meters per hour. If you have a large kitchen, you should purchase a range hood with a high extraction rate to prevent smoke and cooking smells from spreading throughout your home. 

If you cook frequently, you should look for a range hood with an extraction rate of approximately 700 m3/h. 

Filters 

All range hoods have filters. Ducted range hoods employ aluminum filters, which must be cleaned frequently for optimal efficiency and safety. Look for a model with dishwasher-safe filters for the utmost cleaning convenience. 

Recirculating rangehoods utilize carbon filters to remove impurities from the air. After their lifespan expires, you must purchase new ones to replace them. 

Some range hoods include a filter indicator, a convenient feature because it alerts you when it is time to replace the filter. 

Noise 

The decibel levels of several types of range hoods vary. Most manufacturers will provide a decibel rating, but the noise level will be affected by other variables, such as installation location and fan speed. 

If noise is an issue, search for a range hood with a soundproofed motor. 

Touch controls 

Touch controls will give your rangehood a sleek appearance and make the appliance easier to clean. 

How To Clean A Greasy Range Hood 

Examine our list of cleaning ingredients for your range hood. 

Essential Ingredients  

Keep all the essential tools and materials nearby, as you cannot remove the grease, dirt, or stains without them. As an example: 

• Hot Or Boiling Water 
• Baking Soda 
• Vinegar solution (as a cleaning spray) 
• Gloves 
• Degreasing soap (you can use detergent or any other soap of your choice) or kitchen degreaser 
• Scrubbing brush (with firm bristles) 
• Kitchen towel or dishcloth 
• Dust brush cleaner (with soft bristles) 

Now check out the procedure! 

1. Eliminate the Dry Dust Layers

Dusting should be the initial step in your range hood cleaning process. 

Obtain a dust brush cleaner and eliminate all the surface’s dry, dusty particles. For efficient cleaning, the best cleaning brushes can reach the Range Hood’s delicate and confined areas, corners, and outer edges. 

Before dusting the inner and outer roof of the range hood, place a cloth on the stove to prevent dirt and debris from falling inside. 

2. Cleanse the Exterior of The Range Hood

You may have heard the adage, “The first impression is the last impression.” This adage applies to your home as well. 

First impressions are always based on the exterior appearance. So, if the exterior of your range hood is dirty, how can you be satisfied with its functionality alone? 

Therefore, wiping the exterior of the oven hood is essential. 

Because of this: 

• Combine soap and warm water to create a foamy liquid. 
• Scrub the surfaces with the scrub brush and detergent. 
• For a more polished look, wipe out the remaining dirt particles with the help of a kitchen towel. 

Note: You can also use a vinegar solution if there are rigid, sticky, and greasy particles. Spray it all over the exterior of the exhaust hood to clean it. 

3. Rub away the stains that remain under the hood.

Cleaning the stains and marks from the interior of the kitchen hood requires unquestionable care. The filters can be sharp, and when cleaning the interior, you are near its electrical components. 

Thankfully, your filters are simple to remove. 

• Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals before proceeding. 
• Combine baking soda and water and keep degreasing soap nearby. 
• Soak the scrub brush in the liquid soap and effortlessly scrub the interior. 
• Remove the filter for a more thorough cleaning. 

Note: Baking soda neutralizes acidic compounds and dissolves grease that has adhered to a surface. For better results, apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for half an hour, and as a result, your range hood will shine like crystal. 

4. Detach the range hood filter and clean it

Numerous individuals do not remove hood filters before scouring. However, we suggest removing it before cleaning the interior of the range hood. 

If your exhaust hood does not require a thorough cleaning, it is acceptable to remove the filter after cleaning the interior. 

The filters must be thoroughly cleaned so that polluted air can leave home efficiently. 

Observe the steps listed below: 

• Remove the large debris clogging your filter using a towel or scrubby sponge. 
• Then, soak it for 15 to 20 minutes in a sink or tub filled with water. 
• Soak a scrub brush in a solution of one-fourth water and baking soda, then use it to scrub the range hood filter gently. 
• Rinse the hood with warm water and allow it to dry. 
• Then, spray the filter with a vinegar solution and wipe it clean with a towel or microfiber cloth. 

Occasionally, your filter will require multiple pieces of washing. However, you can easily repeat this procedure. Even if your filters are not perfectly clean, removing most large debris and tough grease will make future cleaning easier. 

5. Conduct Regular Inspections Of Your Vent/Duct

The vent or duct is the long pipe installed directly above the range and connecting to the oven hood. It aids in eliminating all strong odors and heavy smoke. 

You may not have examined its internal condition for years, allowing grime and grease to thrive. 

Grab a flashlight, climb a ladder, and remove your ductwork’s vent cap. Examine for debris. Upon discovering the presence of smut, contact a local contractor or duct cleaning professional to clean the system to function more effectively in the future. 

Note: Clean your range hood filters and range hood every three to six weeks to maintain the quality of your range hood duct. With proper upkeep, you should never have to clean your ductwork! 

Can my range hood be extended to the ceiling? Does this make cleaning impossible? 

Even with a high ceiling, extending the range hood to the ceiling is possible. You do not need to clean the entire chimney routinely. The range hood will remove greasy air from the kitchen before it reaches the chimney. 

Range hood filters, the hood’s interior, and the hood’s exterior are the areas that require the most cleaning.