This guide outlines the common parts of a range hood and where each one is typically found.
1. Hood canopy
The canopy serves as the main body of the range hood. It is a large surface that generally houses the control panel, light bulbs, and grease filter.
2. Control panel
Usually positioned at the front of the hood canopy, the control panel contains the controls for operating the blower and lights. With these controls, you can switch the range hood lights and blower on or off and adjust the speed of the blower fan.
3. Lamps
Lamps are generally situated on the bottom surface of the hood canopy. Besides helping to clear the air while you cook, range hoods frequently include LED lighting to brighten the cooktop, giving you better visibility to monitor your dishes as they heat.
4. Grease filter
Located on the underside of the canopy, the grease filter helps remove odors and steam as part of the ventilation process. For best performance, the filters should be cleaned on a regular basis.
5. Duct cover
The vent system is tasked with extracting smoke and odors from your kitchen while you prepare meals. The system and its various components, such as the blower, are usually contained within the duct cover.
Although range hoods may look alike, their ventilation methods can differ. Every range hood works to remove grease and smoke from the air while you cook, but the type of ventilation used varies between models—either ducted or ductless. A convertible model can handle either type.
Convertible Range Hoods
Convertible range hoods offer greater flexibility when selecting a ventilation method for your kitchen. Depending on the ductwork available, a convertible range hood can be set to exhaust air outdoors or to recirculate it indoors. Undercabinet and canopy hoods are the most likely range hood types to be convertible.
Ductless Range Hoods
Ductless range hoods, also called recirculating hoods, filter the air and then push it back into the kitchen. Most microwave hood combinations and many undercabinet hoods come from the factory configured for this venting method. While ductless hoods can be installed almost anywhere, they rely on filters that need regular cleaning.
Ducted Range Hoods
Ducted range hoods vent to the outside, clearing the air by sending it through ductwork in the wall, ceiling, or floor. This venting method is very common and can be found in all range hood styles, particularly canopy hoods, whether wall-mounted or installed over an island.
A range hood operates as a ventilation system, using its fan to help reduce fumes, smoke, and odors in the kitchen while you cook. Certain models draw air to the outdoors, while recirculating hoods rely on a set of filters to clean the air before returning it to the room.
For optimal use, if you have a ductless range hood that recirculates air, be sure to clean the filter regularly. Additionally, to get the most from your range hood, turn on the fan a few minutes before you start cooking to help create suction and prevent venting delays. After you finish cooking, let the fan run for several more minutes to clear lingering smoke and odors.
Range hoods are important for maintaining clear air in the kitchen, so it is worth looking at the different features available, including options that improve both convenience and functionality. Common range hood features include varying fan speeds and larger filters.
Many factors can shape the appliances you decide to add to your home—everything from your kitchen layout and cooking routines to your personal style. On select models, features such as three-speed fans can help enhance airflow in your kitchen, while LED task lighting can improve visibility during cooking. These functions are intended to help you keep your kitchen in order after busy mealtimes.
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