Hoods

When selecting a kitchen hood, you're choosing an essential appliance that enhances the functionality and comfort of your cooking space. Kitchen hoods, also known as range hoods or extractor hoods, help to remove smoke, steam, odours, and grease from the air, ensuring a cleaner, more pleasant kitchen environment.

Size is a critical factor to consider. Kitchen hoods are available in various widths, typically matching the size of your hob or range. Ensure the hood you choose is wide enough to cover the cooking area effectively. Standard widths range from 60 cm to 90 cm, but larger models are available for wider cooking surfaces.

Types of hoods offer different benefits depending on your kitchen setup:

• Chimney hoods are the most common type, featuring a vertical chimney that vents air outside. They are ideal for powerful extraction and are available in various styles and finishes.
• Canopy hoods are integrated into the cabinetry, providing a sleek, discreet appearance while still offering effective extraction. They are a good choice for modern kitchens where aesthetics are important.
• Island hoods are designed for use with cooktops situated on an island. They hang from the ceiling and provide a striking focal point while effectively capturing smoke and steam.
• Downdraft hoods are built into the cooktop and rise up when needed. They are suitable for kitchens where wall or ceiling space is limited.

Extraction vs. Recirculation:

• Extraction hoods vent air outside through ducting, which is ideal for removing odours and smoke completely from your kitchen. Ensure you have or can install the necessary ducting for this type of hood.
• Recirculation hoods filter the air through charcoal filters and then return it to the kitchen. These are ideal for kitchens where external venting is not possible, but they require regular filter changes to maintain effectiveness.

Performance is measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h), indicating how much air the hood can extract. Higher performance levels are necessary for larger kitchens or heavy cooking. Consider models with adjustable fan speeds for flexible control over extraction power.