Top 16 Kitchen Range Hood Brands in 2025

Kitchen Range Hood Buying Guide For any kitchen, one of the most important appliances is the range hood. This is because the purpose of the range hood is to remove smoke, fumes, and heat from the kitchen, thereby making cooking more comfortable and safe. Additionally, range hoods also help to reduce cooking odors in the kitchen. When it comes to purchasing a range hood, there are several factors to consider, including size, type, airflow, and noise level. This article will explore these factors in more detail and provide you with a comprehensive kitchen range hood buying guide. Factors to Consider Before Buying a Range Hood 1. Type There are different types of range hoods available in the market today, and it is important to choose the right one for your kitchen. The different types of range hoods include: a. Under-cabinet range hoods: These type of range hoods are mounted underneath cabinets and provide ventilation over the cooktop. They are typically the most affordable option and are ideal for kitchens with limited space. b. Wall-mounted range hoods: These type of range hoods are mounted on the wall and often extend over the entire cooking surface. They are typically more expensive than under-cabinet range hoods, but they provide more ventilation and can be more aesthetically pleasing. c. Island range hoods: These type of range hoods are mounted above a cooking island and are designed to provide ventilation from all sides. They are typically more expensive than under-cabinet range hoods. 2. Size When selecting a range hood, it is important to choose one that is the right size for your cooktop. The size of the range hood is determined by the width of the cooktop. Typically, range hoods should be at least as wide as the cooktop, but they can also be wider for increased ventilation. 3. Airflow The amount of airflow that a range hood provides is an important factor to consider. Airflow is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), and the higher the CFM, the more powerful the range hood. It is important to choose a range hood with enough airflow to handle the cooking you do in your kitchen. If you do a lot of high-heat cooking, such as frying or grilling, you may need a range hood with a higher CFM. 4. Noise Level The noise level of a range hood is an important factor to consider, especially if you have an open-plan kitchen or if noise is a concern for you. Range hoods with higher CFMs tend to be louder than those with lower CFMs. If you prefer a quieter range hood, it is recommended that you choose one with a lower CFM or one that has a noise-reducing feature. Types of Range Hood Filters Range hoods are equipped with filters that help to trap grease, smoke, and other particles from the air. There are three types of range hood filters: baffle filters, mesh filters, and charcoal filters. 1. Baffle Filters Baffle filters are made of multiple layers of metal of various designs that trap grease and smoke as they pass through. They are ideal for capturing grease and are easy to clean. 2. Mesh Filters Mesh filters are made of multiple layers of mesh, and they are ideal for trapping all types of particles, including smoke and grease. They can be easily removed and cleaned. 3. Charcoal Filters Charcoal filters are designed to remove odor and are commonly used for recirculating range hoods. They are not ideal for capturing grease. Types of Range Hood Ventilation 1. Ducted Ventilation Ducted ventilation is designed to vent air outside the home. This type of ventilation requires ductwork to be installed between the range hood and the outside. It is the most effective ventilation method as it removes smoke, heat, and moisture from the kitchen. 2. Recirculating Ventilation Recirculating ventilation is designed to recirculate air within the kitchen. This type of ventilation is ideal for homes without exterior ducting. Recirculating ventilation is not as effective as ducted ventilation, and it requires regular replacement of charcoal filters. Range Hood Features to Consider 1. Lighting Many range hoods come with lighting, and it is an important feature that can help with cooking. Range hoods with LED lighting are ideal as they provide bright light and are energy-efficient. 2. Fan Speeds Range hoods typically come with different fan speeds, and it is important to choose one with the right fan speed for your cooking needs. If you do a lot of high-heat cooking, you may need a range hood with a higher fan speed. 3. Remote Control Some range hoods come with remote controls that allow you to control the fan speed and lighting from a distance. This is an ideal feature if you have a large kitchen or if you want to control the range hood while cooking. 4. Heat Sensors Range hoods with heat sensors can automatically turn on the fan when they detect high heat levels. This is an ideal feature if you do a lot of high-heat cooking, as it helps to keep the kitchen cool and comfortable. Conclusion A range hood is an important appliance that can improve the quality of air in your kitchen and make cooking more comfortable and safe. When selecting a range hood, it is important to consider factors such as type, size, airflow, noise level, and ventilation. Additionally, there are several range hood features to consider, such as lighting, fan speeds, remote control, and heat sensors. By considering these factors, you can choose a range hood that is ideal for your cooking needs and your kitchen.