Range Hoods Buying Guide


Range Hoods

Getting Started

Over time, cooking can take a huge toll on your kitchen. By investing in a range hood, you eliminate grease, moisture, heat and odor in the air. The main purpose of range hoods are to capture smoke, odors, heat and humidity at the source before it spreads to the rest of your home. This has become a very wise investment and you should consider your options carefully when buying.

Budget

Buying a range hood is no different from investing in any other appliance for your home. You want the best as long as it’s in your price range. You can purchase a $50 non-vented hood or spend thousands on a particular style you want. It all just depends on what you like and more importantly what you can afford. Buying a range hood is a smart investment in your kitchen, so when you do purchase, make sure you’ll like having it around for a long while.

Types

Exhaust Options

Features

Filters

A ducted hood uses aluminum filters to trap grease before the smoke and odors are forced outside. Wash the aluminum mesh grease filters in your dishwasher every month depending on usage, and wash them more often if your cooking style generates significant amounts of grease (frying foods or wok cooking). A non-duct hood uses charcoal filters to trap grease and other smaller molecules so they don't blow back into the kitchen. These charcoal filters aren't washable but need to be replaced every few months. Some hoods have filter indicator lights that will alert you when you need to change your filters.

Sound Level

The sound that a range hood makes is measured in sones. The higher the CFM, the higher the sone rating is likely to be. Look for sone ratings to find the quietest hood at normal operation levels.

Summary

When investing in a range hood for your kitchen there are many options to consider. Take your time while shopping to ensure your final pick is what you want and has everything you need. Also, you need to try your best to stay within your budget and make sure that you will be happy looking at the hood you purchase. After all, you’ll be seeing and using it each time you cook up a meal.