Steam, smoke, odors and grease are all by-products of cooking in the kitchen. The only solution to this not-so-pleasant mix is the kitchen range hood. Unfortunately, not all range hoods are created equal so homeowners need to be well-informed to make sure they purchase a unit that will do the job.

Types
There are two types of range hoods available: those that use a duct system and those that don’t. The ductless models filter the air then re-circulate it into the kitchen. They are fairly easy to install and therefore a popular choice, but are generally considered to be less effective — and less healthy — than those that use a duct system. Ducted models vent directly to the exterior of the home. They are more complicated to install but completely expel the offending air.

A word of caution: if you cook with a gas range you need to have a range hood designed for gas otherwise you will have a fire hazard due to the higher temperatures generated by gas.

Styles
There are various models of range hoods available. The design of the kitchen plays a large role in deciding which will work best.

Wall-mounted
This is the most popular model and can be either ductless or have a duct system. Wall-mounted units come in a wide price range and variety of finishes. Some models have a slide-out feature so you can tuck them away when not in use. Others are integrated with an overhead microwave range.

Under-cabinet
If you don’t like the look of a range hood, or don’t have the space for one the under cabinet hood works well. These units are usually ductless.

Downdraft systems
These units are positioned behind or beside the cooking area and are level with the cooktop until when in use — then they pop up to do the job. They usually used a duct system.

Island range units
These range hoods are suspended from the ceiling and vent through a duct system. They can have a more imposing presence in the kitchen and are more complicated to install. If well-designed, however, they can become a central feature of the kitchen.

Fans
There are two main types of fans in range hoods; axial fans and centrifugal fans. The fan’s strength is measured in cubic feet per minute, so be sure to check the unit’s cfm before you buy. How much cfm you will need depends on the length of the ductwork system and the style of unit, as well as what type of range you use for cooking. The more power your range has, the more power you will need to vent it.

Noise
Pay close attention to the amount of noise a unit generates before you buy it. It may be economical, but if it’s too noisy chances are you won’t use it. So what’s the point in having it? The amount of noise the range hood generates depends on the quality of the unit, as well as the type of fan and amount of ductwork.