Under cabinet range hoods are an incredibly popular option for kitchen ventilation. As sleek, space-saving additions above your stove, they efficiently remove smoke, grease, odors, and moisture from the air while cooking. But with all the choices out there, one common question arises – do under cabinet range hoods actually work?
The short answer is yes, absolutely. When properly installed and used, under cabinet range hoods are highly effective at keeping your kitchen air clean. But to truly understand why they work so well, let’s dive into some key details.
How Do Under Cabinet Range Hoods Work?
Under cabinet range hoods, sometimes called undermount range hoods, are installed directly beneath your wall cabinets, centered over your cooktop or stove. They work by pulling in cooking fumes, odors, and airborne grease through both suction and filtration. Here is a quick overview of the process:
- A powerful motor and fan system inside the hood creates strong suction that pulls air up into the hood.
- Baffles, louvers, curves, and angles in the hood interior catch and direct rising air into the suction path.
- The air passes through grease filters, trapping oil, grease, and particles.
- Cleaner air is then either re-circulated back into the kitchen or vented outside through ductwork.
This continuous airflow efficiently clears away smoke, steam, odors, and grease as you cook, keeping your kitchen environment clean and comfortable. Quality filters also help maintain good indoor air quality for your health.
Key Factors That Impact Performance
Many factors contribute to how well an under cabinet hood actually performs in your kitchen. The most important include:
Suction Power
Measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), suction power relates to the volume of air the hood can effectively pull in and filter. Standard under cabinet models typically have CFMs between 150-400. Higher-end styles can reach 600 CFM or more. Matching the CFM to your cooking needs and kitchen size is essential.
Ventilation Type
Hoods are either ducted, re-circulating, or convertible. Ducted vents air outside through exterior wall or roof vents. Re-circulating filters and returns air back to the kitchen. Ducted is more effective for removing smoke and odors, but re-circulating is simpler to install. Convertible models can adapt to either method.
Filtration System
Grease filters trap cooking residues and are vital to keeping ductwork and kitchens clean. Higher quality mesh and baffle filters do a better job than basic aluminum filters. Charcoal filters also help remove odors in re-circulating models.
Size & Shape
The hood size should match or exceed the width of your cooktop so that rising air is properly captured. The depth and shape of the hood interior also impacts airflow efficiency. More rounded and deeper designs often work better than shallow flat bottoms.
Installation & Maintenance
Proper installation positioning, ducting, and maintenance like filter cleaning allow an under cabinet hood to work optimally. Poor installation or lack of care can greatly reduce its air cleaning capabilities.
Top Benefits of Under Cabinet Range Hoods
When an under cabinet range hood is well-suited to your kitchen and properly installed, it provides excellent cooking ventilation through these helpful benefits:
- Removes up to 95% of smoke, grease, odors, and moisture from the air while cooking.
- Prevents lingering odors from becoming absorbed into cabinets, walls, and fabrics.
- Keeps kitchen ceilings and high walls cleaner by capturing airborne residues.
- Quieter operation than island or chimney hoods, often with whisper-quiet settings.
- More affordable and easier to install than over-range or chimney style hoods.
- Sleek built-in design with under cabinet installation creates a flush, seamless look.
- More effective than downdraft ventilation systems in most kitchens.
- Improves indoor air quality by evacuating heat, grease, fumes, and gases.
- Ducted models remove all cooking exhaust from your home’s interior.
- Re-circulating models include charcoal filters to help purify outgoing air.
Considerations When Choosing an Under Cabinet Hood
To select the right under cabinet hood for your kitchen – one that will work efficiently for years to come – keep these key considerations in mind:
Kitchen Size and Layout
Consider the room size, cooktop width, ceiling height, cabinet placement, and typical cooking load. Larger kitchens, professional ranges, and frequent frying or broiling need greater suction power.
Ducted vs. Re-circulating
Ducted vents cooking exhaust fully outside, removing humidity and contaminants for cleaner indoor air. It requires ductwork installation but is more effective. Re-circulating filters and returns air to the room and only needs an electrical outlet to operate.
Ventilation Power
Match the CFM to your kitchen size and needs, with minimum airflow rates of:
- 100 CFM for small electric stove kitchens under 150 sq.ft.
- 150-200 CFM for average electric stove kitchens up to 400 sq.ft.
- 400-600+ CFM for larger kitchens and commercial-style ranges.
Noise Level
Look for quieter fans if open floor plan or noise is a concern. Well-installed ducting also reduces vibration noises.
Filter Types
High quality baffle or mesh grease filters will perform better over time than standard aluminum. Add charcoal filters too for odor removal in a re-circulating model.
Smart Features
Many new models have integrated lighting, touch controls, auto-off, filter indicators, multiple speeds, and other smart convenience features.
Budget
Good under cabinet models start around $100, with high-end designer styles reaching $1000 or more. Focus more on CFM power and noise than extra gadgets if budget-conscious.
Do Under Cabinet Range Hoods Require Ducting to Work Well?
Ducting an under cabinet hood to vent outside is the most effective option for removing all cooking byproducts from your home. However, ductless re-circulating models can also work quite well in many kitchens.
Advantages of Ducting
Ducting a range hood to the exterior has three main advantages:
- Superior smoke and odor removal – Ducting fully evacuates all grease, odors, moisture and contaminants for cleaner indoor air.
- Higher CFM power – Ducted models can have greater CFMs since they don’t need to limit air volume to recycle back into the kitchen.
- Flexibility in position – Ducting lets you install the hood virtually anywhere without proximity concerns to a ventilation source.
When to Choose Re-circulating
For smaller or infrequent cooking needs in an well-sealed home, a re-circulating under cabinet range hood can perform quite well, with benefits like:
- Lower install cost – No ductwork is needed, only an electrical outlet connection.
- Ideal for small kitchens – The lower CFM ratings are less likely to pull too much conditioned air out of the home.
- Simplified installation – No need to cut holes in exterior walls and run ductwork.
- Good for apartment use – Re-circulating is often the only option permitted in rental units.
- Added air filtration – Charcoal filters purify air and remove odors before recirculating.
Maximizing Performance of Non-Ducted Hoods
While ductless range hoods have limitations for smoke and odor removal, you can optimize their performance by:
- Choosing the highest CFM model that your kitchen size can support.
- Selecting a deep and rounded interior design rather than a shallow flat bottom.
- Adding extra charcoal and grease filters for the cleanest filtration.
- Keeping filters clean through prompt and regular maintenance.
- Using on the highest speed while cooking for maximum suction.
- Opening windows or using ceiling fans while cooking to enhance air exchange.
Range Hood CFM Recommendations
The CFM, or cubic feet per minute, indicates the volume of air that a range hood can effectively draw in and filter. Choosing a model with ample CFM airflow for your kitchen’s size and cooking load is crucial to performance. Here are the recommended CFMs for varying kitchens:
Small kitchens (under 150 square feet) with average home electric stoves : Minimum 100 CFM
This provides basic ventilation that should handle light cooking with the occasional steak or broiling.
Mid-sized kitchens (150 – 400 sq. ft.) with 30 – 48 inch home gas/electric ranges: Minimum 150-200 CFM
This is sufficient for the average family kitchen and routine cooking needs like multi-burner meals or baking.
Large, open concept kitchens (400+ square feet) with pro-style ranges: Minimum 400-600+ CFM
Commercial-grade ventilation for enthusiastic cooks and families, frequent frying/broiling, and high heat output burners.
Extra powerful CFM (700+) for extremely large, gourmet kitchens with multiple high-BTU burners and ovens, to create a commercial kitchen environment.
To maximize air quality and moisture removal, look for the highest CFM model that makes sense for your kitchen without overpowering space or noise concerns.
Types of Under Cabinet Range Hoods
There are a few basic designs for under cabinet kitchen ventilation:
Standard Under Cabinet Hoods
The most common and affordable option, installed directly beneath wall cabinets. Best suited for average ceiling heights.
Benefits: Simple installation, compact size, lower cost, works with all cabinetry.
Drawbacks: Limited on very tall ceilings, no height adjustability.
Proximity / Low Profile Hoods
Designed specifically for close cabinet proximity, often in 8-10 inch heights.
Benefits: Fits seamlessly even with low 7-8 foot ceilings and nearly touching cabinets.
Drawbacks: Very limited smoke capture area and lower CFMs due to small size.
Telescopic / Chimney Hoods
Offer height adjustment for customized installation; chimney vents up for increased smoke capture.
Benefits: Flexible for any ceiling height, greater smoke capture area.
Drawbacks: More expensive, chimney structure can obstruct cabinets or be visually unappealing. Difficult to duct.
Insert Hoods
Installed directly into lower cabinetry with matching insert panel. Highly integrated for a seamless appearance.
Benefits: Create a flush kitchen aesthetic. Doors can fully conceal when not in use.
Drawbacks: Require custom cabinet installation, reduced capture area and access behind filters. Higher cost.
Key Considerations When Selecting an Under Cabinet Hood
Choosing the right under cabinet hood for your kitchen and cooking needs is an important decision to ensure satisfactory performance. Keep the following key factors in mind:
Size
Select a hood as wide or slightly wider than your cooktop area to adequately capture rising smoke, grease, and odors. Overhang side burners by 3-6 inches.
Suction Power
Match the CFM to your kitchen size and cooking habits. Baking and broiling need more power than average pan frying or boiling.
Noise
Larger, more powerful motors tend to be louder. Look for features like whisper-quiet modes, insulation, vibration dampening, and quality fans if noise is a concern.
Ventilation Type
Compare ducted, non-ducted, or convertible options to match your install needs. Ducting is ideal for removing all contaminants.
Filter Types
Multi-layered mesh grease filters perform better than basic aluminum. Add charcoal filters too for non-ducted recirculation.
Installation Factors
Consider ceiling height, cabinet configuration, available duct runs, and if you can cut vent holes in the exterior. An HVAC pro can help plan ducting.
Special Features
Convenient add-ons like lighting, auto-shutoff, filter cleaning reminders, remote controls, multiple fan speeds and more.
Budget
Balance features and performance with affordability. Focus more on CFM power and noise reduction than gadgets if budget-conscious.
Proper Installation Tips
Correct installation positioning is crucial for an under cabinet range hood to effectively capture and divert all the cooking contaminants from your kitchen. Follow these tips:
Height
The bottom of the hood should hang 27-30 inches above electric cooktops and 30-36 inches over gas to optimize smoke capture.
Centered Over Cooktop
Install directly centered over the cooking surface, not offset over a side. This allows rising air to be drawn in.
Ducting Route
Use the shortest, straightest duct path possible to maximize airflow. Limit turns or kinks which can impede performance.
Secure Mounting
Securely mount the hood into wall studs or blocking using all provided hardware for safety and noise reduction.
Duct Size
Use recommended duct pipe diameter for your CFM needs. Undersized ductwork greatly impacts airflow.
Proper Electrical
Hire an electrician if hardwired. Use properly grounded outlet if plug-in. Follow all local codes.
Finishing Touches
Caulk/seal all joints and seams thoroughly. Install panels or vents to conceal ducting.
Following manufacturer instructions for placement, wiring, ducting, and installation is critical to ensure your under cabinet hood vents properly for years to come. Consider hiring an HVAC professional if you have any doubts.
Do Under Cabinet Range Hoods Come with Lights?
Many modern under cabinet range hoods integrate useful features like built-in LED lighting strips into their design. The lights brightly illuminate your cooktop for easier meal preparation and cooking visibility.
Here are key advantages of an under cabinet hood with integrated lighting:
- Convenience of not needing to install separate kitchen lighting.
- Task lighting is exactly where you need it, centered above the cooking surface.
- Various brightness levels allow you to adjust the lighting as needed.
- LED bulbs provide excellent illumination while lasting longer than other options. They also operate efficiently without getting hot.
- Some models allow you to adjust the color temperature from warm mood lighting to crisp cool daylight.
- Touch controls, remote controls, or app connectivity on smart models make it easy to control the lights.
- Sleek hidden strips create even, glare-free illumination compared to visible bulbs.
- Automatically turn on when the hood fan is activated for extra visibility while cooking.
If considering a model without built-in lighting, be prepared to install sufficient pot lights, pendants, or other task lighting centered over your stove area. The combination of strong lights plus the range hood provides ideal kitchen visibility and function.
How Loud Are Under Cabinet Range Hoods?
Under cabinet range hoods are appreciated for their relatively quiet performance compared to larger wall-mounted or island models. However, the amount of noise your under cabinet hood produces depends on several factors.
Fan Strength
The ventilation power level directly impacts sound levels. Hoods are louder on their highest fan setting. Look for models with whisper modes for the quietest operation.
Motor Quality
Well-designed, noise-insulated fan motors operate much more quietly than basic inexpensive motors. Brushless DC motors are ideal.
CFM Power
More powerful hoods move more air which requires more motor power and often more noise. Higher CFM models tend to be louder.
Ducting
Any rattles or vibrations from improper duct installation can make an otherwise quiet hood seem noisy. Secure, straight duct runs reduce sound.
Proximity
Being mounted directly on the underside of cabinets rather than freestanding makes under cabinet hoods seem quieter as cabinetry muffles some sound.
Kitchen Size
Larger spaces help dissipate noise. Smaller kitchens make fans seem louder.
With sound ratings ranging 35-65 decibels, quality under cabinet hoods operate at reasonable volumes perfect for typical residential kitchens. Focus on CFM power over absolute silence for the best performance and livable noise levels.
Under Cabinet Range Hood Noise Reduction Tips
While even the quietest under cabinet range hoods make some fan noise when operating, the following tips can help reduce sounds:
- Select models with whisper-silent modes and noise-insulated housing. Microphone icon indicates quietest options.
- Reduce fan speed when possible. The highest setting moves more air but also more sound.
- Ensure ducting is properly secured. Any vibrations or movement transmits noise.
- Avoid excessive duct turns or tight squeezes which create air turbulence and sounds.
- Install hood into wall studs for stability. Vibrations against thin drywall amplify noise.
- Caulk well around the entire hood exterior and all duct joints to prevent air leaks and whistles.
- Place a sound-dampening rubber pad between the hood and mounting location before securing.
- Add mass loaded vinyl sheets on the bottom cabinets to block noise transmission down if needed.
- Run an exhaust fan elsewhere in the home while cooking to help mask hood sound.
Avoid compromising on CFM power just for lower noise levels. Optimize both with installation care, quality materials, and the right model choice. The most important thing is having an under cabinet hood work hard to keep your kitchen air clean!
Do Under Cabinet Range Hoods Require Special Maintenance?
Under cabinet range hoods are relatively low maintenance appliances. However, to keep your hood working efficiently for the long term, be sure to follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean grease filters monthly – Built-up grease will impede airflow. Wash metal filters in soapy water and allow to fully dry before replacing. Replace sticky aluminum filters.
- Change charcoal filters – For recirculating hoods, replace charcoal odor filters every 6-12 months per manufacturer recommendations.