Types and Available Features

There are three general types of ready-to-install range hoods. Within this sub-topic we’ll briefly examine each of the three types while also discussing some optional features.

 

·        Under-cabinet: Traditional and usually the least expensive type of range hood, under-cabinet range hoods are, in fact, usually mounted under a wall cabinet and attached to an exterior wall. In many models, air is pulled out of the kitchen through an exhaust duct in the exterior wall. As a general rule, under-cabinet models aren’t decorative or trendy, but models are available for as little as $50.

 

·        Downdraft: This type of range hood often accompanies an island range in which attachment to an exterior wall isn’t an option. In many cases a retractable intake device is raised from the range or counter in order to pull air into exhaust ducts set below floor level. The ability to retract the range hood—and the sleek nature of many downdraft models—makes the downdraft models more stylish than many under-cabinet models, but it’s rare to find a downdraft range hood for less than $500.

 

·        Wall-chimney/wall-canopy: Large, stylish, and professional in appearance, wall-canopy range hoods continue to gain popularity among homeowners. Often used on exterior walls when a cabinet isn’t available, wall-canopy range hoods resemble an upside-down chimney in appearance. Stainless steel finishes are common on wall-canopy range hoods, and wall-canopy models are considered the most stylish of the three types. Because of their size and power, however, wall-canopy models are also the most expensive option, with many models priced at $1,000 or more.

 

Within all of the above range hood categories, certain features add additional convenience—with a higher price tag, of course. A sampling of such features might include:

 

·        Electronic touch controls: Keypads allow users to easily control various aspects of the range hood’s operation.

 

·        Variable fan speeds: Relatively standard on most range hoods, this feature allows cooks to raise or lower the fan speed of a range hood in order to match the fan speed to the amount of smoke or odor in the kitchen.

 

·        Automatic shutoff:  If a range hood has this option, the range hood may be preset to turn itself off at a precise time.

 

·        Heat sensors: If they detect increased heat within the kitchen, range hood heat sensors can sound an alarm or increase the speed of the range hood fan.

 

·        Lighting: Lighting is one of the most common range hood features, ranging from simple one-bulb fixtures to powerful halogen lamps.