Today, a range hood is an indispensable element that completes any kitchen. This device is necessary to clean the room from vapors, soot and impurities that inevitably appear during the cooking process. In addition, the device helps protect the furniture installed in the kitchen from fat deposits, which affects not only the durability of the structures, but also the appearance of the entire interior.
How to choose a kitchen hood over the stove
How does the hood work?
- At the bottom of the housing there is a strong filter that retains dirt and soot.
- Inside the device there are fans that are driven by a motor.
- Next, an air duct leading to the street or into the ventilation shaft of the house is attached to the upper part.
- Various models of hoods provide additional devices for better cleaning, for example, grease traps.
Which filters for hoods are better?
- Grease filters are designed to capture suspended fat particles from the air. They are divided into reusable and disposable. The latter cannot be washed and must be disposed of after use.
Reusable metal ones require only regular cleaning and will last as long as the unit itself.
- Carbon filters are used in products where air exchange is provided: air is first drawn into the device, and after cleaning it is sent back into the room. The composition is based on activated carbon, which absorbs odors well.
What power does the hood need?
The performance of the device is calculated using the following formula: the width of the kitchen is multiplied by the length and the height of the ceiling, then by another ten. The last figure is the rate of air exchange per hour.
The higher the power of the product, the faster the atmosphere in the kitchen will be refreshed, the more comfortable it will be for you to cook. The minimum productivity of industrial products is 300 cubic meters per hour.
Where is the hood connected?
It is important to correctly connect the device to the ventilation shaft and to the electrical network. The unit itself should be located at a height of 70-90 centimeters from the hob.
To avoid melting of the device, you cannot mount it below the established limits; when installed above 90 centimeters from the stove, the effectiveness of the product is significantly reduced.
The exhaust hole and the installation location of the device are connected by corrugation in the case when this pipe can be hidden in the kitchen unit. When the exhaust duct is located on the outside, it is better to use special duct pipes with a rectangular cross-section.
Where does the hood vent in the kitchen?
The device can be brought out into the ventilation shaft hole, which is available in every house. If this is not possible, then an additional hole is made in the wall with output directly to the street.
Power
Quite often, when reading a review of kitchen hoods, you may come across such a parameter as power. In this case, we mean the operating characteristics of the motor, which is responsible for rotating the fan.
The better this unit works, the more effective the device will be. At the same time, some manufacturers resort to installing several fans to improve these parameters.
When watching video materials, you will notice that some hoods are equipped with several switches. Some of them are designed for lighting, while others can be used to regulate the degree of air suction.
Photo of a hood with two motors
How to choose a kitchen hood
Please pay attention to the following criteria when choosing:
- Aesthetic indicators. How new equipment will fit into your interior.
- Dimensions of the device. Take measurements before purchasing.
- Product form.
- Power. Choose performance depending on the area of the space.
- The principle of operation of the unit.
Important parameters
Before purchasing, pay attention to the following parameters:
- Equipment. Grease filters in the kit must be provided by the manufacturer.
- Performance. You must understand how much power you need from this unit in order for it to work efficiently.
- Silence. Not all models are quiet. 40 decibels is the optimal parameter, the sound will be quiet.
- Options. Do not buy a product without first measuring the space where you plan to install it.
Minor parameters
- The color of the product does not matter if it is masked by a kitchen panel.
- Manufacturer. If you are satisfied with all the important parameters, then you shouldn’t overpay for the brand.
- Exhaust connection type. Choose corrugated or square pipes; you can even make a move from drywall.
- Additional lighting. Manufacturers offer devices with built-in light bulbs to illuminate the hob, but usually they provide little light.
- Remote Control. Ability to adjust power remotely.
- Sleep timer.
- Switch panel type.
Performance
One of the fundamental parameters when choosing a hood is its performance, that is, the volume of air that this device can process in an hour. In accordance with SES standards, the air in the kitchen must change at least 10-12 times per hour.
Typically, hoods are equipped with motors of varying power - from 280 to 1000 cubic meters. m/h. The choice depends on the size of the kitchen and the degree of contamination.
Let's assume the kitchen area is 10 square meters. m, the ceiling height is 3 m, then the average hood capacity will be 10 sq. m. m x 3 m x 12 times/h x 1.3 = 468 cubic meters. m/h.
The best hood without duct
Recirculation-type products differ from flow-through ones in that they do not have an outlet pipe to discharge contaminated air into the ventilation shaft.
In this type of device, the air is purified internally by a two-level filtration system and then released back.
Characteristics
- No air duct.
- Compact design.
- Several operating modes with the possibility of adjustment.
pros
- Unlike a flow-through system, a stationary one will continue to operate regardless of surrounding influences.
- Lightness of design. No additional pipes or fasteners required. It looks elegant and does not clutter up the space.
- Easy to install. Several fastenings and connection to the network without additional laying of air ducts.
- Grease filters are easy to clean and replace. They can be washed in the dishwasher.
- Low cost compared to flow-through models.
Minuses
- You often have to change carbon filters. You cannot wash them; you need to throw away the used material and buy new one.
- Small selection of models.
- These units are more suitable for kitchens with a large area, as they take up a lot of space.
Rating of the best models
- The most reliable option in its category is Bosch DHU646 U.
- Cata Ceres 600 Negra is functional, has three speeds and touch controls.
- Pyramida MN20-60 is an excellent option for small kitchens up to 9 square meters.
The best fully built-in hood
The product is completely built into the kitchen set.
Characteristics
- Additional sliding panel.
- The body length varies from 45 to 90 centimeters.
- Possibility of flow-through air exhaust or recirculation.
- Mechanical and electrical models.
- High performance.
pros
- Space saving.
- The retractable panel increases the air suction area.
- Compact and ergonomic design.
- Easy to install.
- Aesthetic beauty.
Minuses
- The duct space in cabinets is not suitable for storing other things, since the duct takes up a lot of space in the unit.
Rating of the best models
- Electrolux egf 50250S is easy to use and is the best in its category.
- Zanussi ZHP 615 X is easy to use, adjustable with a mechanical slider.
- Elica eliblok 9 LX is equipped with two engines of maximum performance.
Materials and coloring
It is necessary to choose companies that use only high-quality materials and advanced technologies in the production of hoods. Stainless steel allows for a uniform surface without edge effects.
The approach to painting and coatings is also serious. The surface should not be smooth or scratchy, allowing for easy maintenance. Some dome models are made of special copper coated with a compound that protects against darkening and corrosion. This creates a stunning, fresh copper effect that pairs uniquely with many of the colors and materials used in kitchen cabinetry. Of course, such material is more expensive than steel, but still few manufacturers have achieved such quality of material processing.
The best inclined hood
The inclined model has an impressive design; the glossy surface fits best with modern headsets.
Characteristics
- Touch or button control.
- There is an automatic shutdown timer.
- Additional lighting included.
- Glass front panel.
pros
- Large air suction area.
- Wide functionality.
- There is more space above the working area when cooking, thanks to the inclined plane.
Minuses
- High price
- Requires regular wet cleaning, as the glossy surface gets dirty quickly.
Rating of the best models
- Eleyus Lana 700 60 Bkl. Air exhaust and recirculation, three speeds, low noise.
- Krona Irida 600 is electronically controlled and equipped with air exhaust and circulation functions.
- Faber Cocktail XS BK A 55 is equipped with touch controls and meets all the stated characteristics. Low noise and maximum efficiency are the main advantages of this model.
Brands
The household appliances market offers a large selection of hoods from different manufacturers. The choice of brand largely depends on how much the device costs. High-quality hoods can be selected in different price segments.
Inexpensive - up to 10,000 rubles. Budget models with good assembly, made of high-quality material, are offered by brands such as:
- Faber;
- Ciarko;
- Korting;
- Simfer;
The average price segment is up to 50,000 rubles. The hoods from the following companies are recognized as the best in this group:
- Bosch;
- Siemens;
- Asko;
- Teka;
- Smeg;
- Miele;
Expensive hoods – from 50,000 rubles and above
Premium devices with high build quality, many additional functions and cutting-edge design are produced by such brands as:
- Falmec;
- Electrolux;
- De Dietrich;
- Kuppersbusch;
As a rule, the best manufacturers offer a selection of models for different budgets, ranging from economy hoods to premium ones. These include most European brands. We offer a rating of the best manufacturers of hoods and a review of popular models from them.
Bosch
Bosch is a German company that has been around for over 130 years. Their story began with a small workshop for the production and sale of household equipment. Today it is the world's largest concern producing household appliances, equipment for cars and communication devices.
The main value of the company is customer trust. And the main goal is to introduce the latest scientific developments into the production of goods. By the way, in 2015 it invested 6.3 billion euros in scientific research. One of the company’s recent innovations is EcoSilenceDrive motors. Their difference from standard engines is their virtually silent operation and increased energy efficiency.
Features of Bosch hoods:
- High build quality.
- Durable materials.
- Long lasting engines.
- Stylish design.
- Application of modern technologies.
You can choose models from Bosch at a price of 5,000–35,000 rubles.
The best model of the brand is Bosch Serie 4 DWK065G60R
The type is related to inclined fireplace hoods. Mounted to the wall above the stove, it operates in two modes: air exhaust and air recirculation. The standard width is 60 cm. The body is made of metal and glass, the color is black. The maximum productivity is 530 m3/hour. Works at three speeds. It is controlled using touch buttons located on the front panel of the device. The design includes a grease filter and an anti-return valve. The backlight uses LED lamps. There is an indicator of filter contamination.
Pros: beautiful design, high suction power, convenient inclined shape, high-quality indoor air purification.
Cons: starting from the second speed, noticeable noise appears.
Siemens
Another German brand is a leader in the production of high-quality electronic equipment. For more than 170 years, Siemens has been producing products for shipbuilding, aviation, medicine, energy, and industry. Household electrical appliances are only a tiny part of the products of a huge concern with a worldwide reputation. The company's annual income is about 80 billion euros, and its dealer network covers 80% of the world's countries.
Hoods from Siemens combine laconic design and high functionality. The device can be easily hidden in the interior, and the noise level will not cause discomfort. The device is not cheap – it starts from 12,000 rubles. But the build quality, durable materials and quiet operation make it worth the money. Moreover, the brand can offer a choice of cutting-edge additions, such as, for example, a built-in TV.
The best model of the brand is Siemens LI 67SA530 IX
The hood is built into a hanging cabinet above the stove. Made of silver metal. Designed for recirculation and flow mode operation. The design includes 2 powerful motors operating at three speeds. You can enable an additional option - intensive operation mode. The hood control is mechanical, using buttons. Maximum productivity – 740 m3/hour. At the same time, the maximum noise level is quite low - 55 dB.
Pros: it works quietly at high power, it cleans the air well from contaminants, the design includes 2 motors.
Cons: lack of check valve.
Samsung
The South Korean company Samsung appeared in
1938 It originally produced rice flour. Later she changed her direction more than once: from producing sugar, fertilizers and wool, to publishing a newspaper and running an insurance business. As a result, Samsung began to produce electronics. Today, the company has representative offices in 62 countries, and brand recognition is one of the highest - 98%.
The latest models of hoods from Samsung are equipped with many modern features:
- timer;
- voice control;
- anti-return valve;
- filter clogging indicator;
- intensive mode.
When buying a device from Samsung, you can get bonuses such as:
- Thorough air purification.
- High power.
- Durable body material.
- Ergonomic design.
- Stylish design.
One of the main advantages of the brand is a large assortment of models in different price categories. Prices start from 3,000 rubles. Standard models without additional functions can be selected for 6000-6500 rubles. Premium devices cost 30,000 rubles. At the same time, regardless of the price, the quality of the products always remains high.
The best model of the brand is Samsung NK24M5070FS/UR
The NK24M5070FS/UR hood is designed in modern style. Mounted on the wall above the hob. It has a high capacity of 670 m3/h. It is dome type and operates at four speeds. It can either remove air from the stove to the outside through an air duct, or work in recirculation mode. For this purpose, the design includes a built-in grease-absorbing filter made of aluminum. The device is controlled via buttons on the touch screen. Additional functions of the hood: timer, backlight with LED lamps, intensive mode.
Pros: high performance, 4 speed modes, additional options, almost silent operation, excellent removal of odors and fumes from the stove.
Cons: high price, no check valve or carbon filter included.
Hansa
For more than 70 years, the German company Hansa has been producing household appliances. The company's products are manufactured all over the world, but most of its facilities are located in Poland. The brand is one of the top 3 popular kitchen brands in Russia. Inexpensive price, compactness, ease of operation and German build quality have made Hansa hoods leaders in sales in Eastern Europe.
The range of hoods from Hansa allows you to choose an option for any kitchen: from large island hoods to compact built-in models.
Features of Hansa hoods:
- Maximum noiseless operation due to European components.
- The body is made of environmentally friendly materials. They do not cause damage to the environment and do not harm human health.
- All kitchen hoods from Hansa have a capacity starting from 280 m3/hour. These options are suitable for small and medium-sized kitchens.
- For spacious rooms, more powerful options have been developed - domed and inclined, fireplace.
Hansa hoods are the most affordable on the Russian market. Simple, mechanical models can be selected for 2,000–5,000 rubles, dome models cost an average of 4,500–7,000 rubles, and the price of luxury devices with a full set of functions, powerful motors and a large number of speeds reaches 24,000 or more.
The best model of the brand – Hansa OTP6221WH
Easy to operate, reliable, the Hansa OTP6221WH hood is a good choice for standard small and medium-sized kitchens. By type of installation it is built-in. In this model, all parameters are standard, which makes it universal:
- Classic width 60 cm. Will allow you to easily install it in most kitchen units.
- 3 operating speeds. They will help you adjust the intensity of air purification.
- Capacity of 270 m3/hour is suitable for standard small and medium-sized kitchens.
- Grease filter. It will retain grease particles from the air and prevent them from settling inside the device.
- Halogen backlight. Provides convenient work behind the hob.
- Push-button control type. It will not cause difficulties in adjusting speeds and turning on/off the backlight.
The device can operate for drainage and recirculation. But for recirculation you will need to buy a carbon filter, since it is not included in the hood.
Pros: reliable, easy-to-use and easy-to-use unit, has sufficient power, reasonable price, and is not noisy.
Cons: no carbon filter or check valve included.
Gorenje
The Gorenje company began with a small workshop in the Slovenian village of Gorenje. Initially, equipment for agricultural work was produced there. Then the company switched to the production of household appliances. Today the brand produces about 2 million units of household appliances per year and is among the top 10 European manufacturers of electrical appliances for the home.
Features of Gorenje brand hoods:
- Environmentally friendly materials.
- Application of innovative technologies.
- Design in line with the latest trends.
- High-touch technology - equipping equipment with a convenient control system.
- Ergonomic design. Light weight, compactness, laconic shape - all this is taken into account in the developments from Gorenje.
- Minimum noise level and maximum quality of air purification.
In an effort to beat competitors, specialists equip Gorenje hoods with wide functionality. In addition, each new model becomes more and more automated. For example, in the household appliances market you can already choose hoods that independently scan the air in the kitchen and are able to select and set the desired air purification mode.
The best model of the brand is Gorenje DU 6345 E
The Gorenje DU 6345 E hood is a classic hanging type and is controlled by buttons. Can operate at three speeds. Made of silver metal. It works in both air exhaust and filtration modes. The exhaust power is low - 174 m3. The design includes 1 motor, its noise level is average – 64 dB. The hob is illuminated by an LED lamp. The standard hood width is 60 cm. The number of speeds is 3.
Pros: inexpensive price, simple but attractive design, the device does its job well even at first and second speed, the grease filter is easy to remove and clean.
Cons: not suitable for medium and large kitchens, it is noisy at the second and third speeds, for the recirculation mode you will have to buy a charcoal filter.
The best hood with filter
All harmful impurities are removed through the air duct; with good draft, you can do without a filter, but in case of reverse flow, all the dirt will return to the surrounding atmosphere.
Characteristics
- Filters are used for grease and carbon.
- Standard case parameters.
pros
- Clean air comes back through recirculation.
- Work efficiency increases significantly.
- Spare parts can be purchased easily.
- Ease of access to necessary elements.
Minuses
- Regular replacement of carbon filters.
- Grease trapping elements are cleaned and washed as they become dirty.
Rating of the best models
- Bosch DFS 067K50 is a built-in model of the best quality.
- Siemens LI 67SA530 IX, assembled in Germany, has a low noise level, halogen lamps illuminate the stove.
- Elikor Integra 60 is inexpensive and is very popular among consumers.
Control Panel
Another factor influencing the choice of device. Of course, every housewife wants to have a device that is impeccable in design and control. The following types can be distinguished here.
- Control using a slider. This type is no longer very modern and attractive. In addition, the slider quickly becomes dirty, and it becomes not very convenient to use.
- Keypad. These devices have a simple design and are easy to use.
- The touchpad, more common today, is easy to use. But such a device has a higher price and it is advisable to connect it to the network through a voltage stabilizer, since our electrical network is truly famous for its power surges, which can damage any household appliance. Therefore, it is better to be safe from the beginning.
- Pseudo touchpad is the most common type today. In such a device, the microcircuits are reliably protected from any damage and such a panel looks very stylish.
After the above, the advantages of hoods are obvious; they perfectly remove excess vapors generated during cooking, purify the air, and prevent the formation of condensation on the walls and soot.
But the most important disadvantages of hoods are the high noise level and constant washing or replacing filters.
But, you see, this is a fairly small price to pay for the fact that there will always be fresh and clean air in the kitchen.
The best hood with recirculation
Recirculation means that the sucked air, having been cleaned by the filter system, enters back into the room. Such units do not have an air duct.
Characteristics
- Two-stage filtration system.
- Compact design.
pros
- Due to the movement of the same air, the room becomes warmer.
- Ease of installation.
- No need for ductwork.
- Space saving.
Minuses
- Frequent replacement of filter elements is required.
- Low efficiency, the air is purified only 80 percent.
- After finishing work in the kitchen, it is recommended to turn off the unit and ventilate the room through the window to restore the temperature.
- With recirculation, the power is less than in a flow-through system.
- Cannot be installed above a gas stove.
Rating of the best models
- Liberty Base 251 X is the best in its category.
- VENTOLUX Bravo 60 has a modern design and extensive functionality.
- The Bosch DWW 063461 model is equipped with two modes; in addition to recirculation, exhaust through the air duct is provided.
Differences in hoods by type of fastening
Depending on the method of placement and installation, a distinction is made between ceiling and wall hoods for the kitchen.
The wall mounting form is the most common. All popular forms of hoods are wall mounted. This design is convenient in that it can be placed in close proximity to the ventilation system. In addition, the walls take on most of the load from the weight of the device.
The island exhaust system is attached to the ceiling anywhere in the room where the stove is installed. Such models are mainly designed for air recirculation, since they are difficult to connect to the ventilation system. However, in large kitchens, for example in catering establishments, ceiling hoods must be connected to air ducts for complete ventilation of the premises.
A ceiling-mounted hood will look good in spacious kitchens with a modern design, but its owners will have to provide additional ventilation for this room.
The best hood with fan
Used when there is no sufficient draft in the ventilation shaft. This fairly primitive device is easy to use, just press one button.
Characteristics
- Fans are divided into: axial, radial, diametrical.
- Compact dimensions.
- Presence of a check valve.
- Safety of use.
- Standard white color.
pros
- High efficiency at low cost.
- Long service life.
- Protects against harmful insects.
- The fan can suck out the fluff.
- They don't take up much space.
- Low cost.
- Easy to operate.
- Ease of use.
Minuses
- Operation volume.
- Low efficiency; pollution directly from the stove will not reach the exhaust vent where the fan is located.
Rating of the best models
- Vents 100 C is the best in its category.
- The Optima 4 D 100 offers optimal performance.
- Domovent 100 C is easy to use and inexpensive.
Additional hood options
- Remote control
Many modern hoods are equipped with remote control. The cost of this model will be higher than the standard one, so think about whether you really need this option.
- Backlight
It may seem strange, but some hoods are not equipped with light bulbs. Even if the model you choose has a backlight, it's worth checking how bright it is.
It is best if it is an LED lamp. It does not heat up, its service life is quite long, and this lamp is completely safe. It is clear that a hood without lighting is inconvenient to use; in addition, additional lighting above the stove never hurts.
- Number of air intake speeds
Hoods are available with both 1-2 speeds and 10. However, for optimal operation of the device, 3-4 modes will be enough; you won’t have to overpay for such a model.
- Presence of a timer
A necessary function that makes it possible to automatically turn off the device. There are models on sale that work synchronized with an electric stove. They are also equipped with sensors that indicate when it is time to replace the filter.
- TV
If you dream of having a TV in your kitchen that doesn’t take up extra space, take a closer look at a hood that has this function.
The best range hood with microwave
It is installed above the stove and performs several functions at once.
Characteristics
- High power.
- Large dimensions.
pros
- Multifunctionality.
- There is no need to buy additional equipment, two in one.
- Ease of use.
- Space saving.
Minuses
- If any element breaks down, both devices will become inoperative.
- When using a microwave oven, the ventilation system will not operate at full capacity.
- Rarely seen on Russian shelves, such specimens are more to the taste of Americans.
- High price tag.
Rating of the best models
- The retractable panel of the MWGD 750.0 E model increases the suction area. The microwave has maximum performance.
- CATA Chorus has nine programs, halogen lighting and push-button control.
Noise level and dimensions
Unfortunately, today there is not yet a single device that can operate in absolutely silent mode. Of course, devices differ and the sound characteristics are usually indicated in the technical data sheet of the device, but the fact that when turned on the device will constantly hum monotonously is a fact that you will have to come to terms with.
As for the dimensions, you shouldn’t wonder what sizes kitchen hoods come in; today you can buy both a very small device and an impressively sized device. The most important thing is to know how to choose the right size.
Ideally, the hood should match the dimensions of the stove or hob. The device may even be slightly larger, but in no case smaller than a stove or panel. If you have a huge hob or stove installed in your kitchen and you can’t find a device of the appropriate dimensions, then you can opt for the built-in option. The working surface of such a hood is increased due to the retractable panel.