The Best Range Hoods for 2022
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Best Range Hoods
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A reliable method of exhausting the area above the cooktop is an essential part of every kitchen. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best range hoods currently available.
UPDATED: April 4, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall I recommend the Broan-NuTone 413004 because it features an easy to install, ductless*, stainless steel design.
*If you prefer a ducted hood for the reasons below, I recommend the Broan-NuTone F403004.
How does a range hood work?
Range hoods work by filtering out the exhaust fumes and cooking smells that come from your stovetop. They either redirect all this smoke to the outdoors through ductwork — similar to a chimney — or channel it through a filter. A quality range hood should also be energy-efficient so it does not drive your heating or air conditioning bills up.
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Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a specific model:
Types of Range Hoods
There are two basic types: ductless and ducted. A ductless range hood uses a filter to strain the dirt, gas, and cooking oil out of the air. As the name implies, a ducted hood directs the air outdoors via a duct. If you live in a condo or have other installation restrictions a ductless hood will be the best choice.
Ducted hoods are more effective, but they can be overkill for a small condo or a kitchen where you cook infrequently. There are also convertible range hoods that can either be connected to ductwork or a filter, depending on your preference.
Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM)
All range hoods have a Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) rating. It is important to consider the CFM because this will tell you the maximum volume of air it can extract, which after all, is the ultimate goal of these units. They typically provide around 200 CFM to 400 CFM, though they can be as strong as 800+ CFM for the most powerful units.
Fan Speed
Note that CFM is not the same as RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). RPM is a measure of the rotational speed of the motor or blades. CFM, on the other hand, is a measure of the quantity of air moved over time. The two are related since a higher RPM will likely result in a higher CFM. However, in addition to the fan speed, the CFM is also determined by the blade configurations such as size and angle.
Most models offer multiple settings that allow you to customize the speed to your specific cooking needs. This is helpful to adjust it based on the type or method of cooking. For example, if you are using a wok at high heat it can produce a lot of steam and fumes that need to be captured so a high-speed setting would be ideal.
Noise Level (Sones)
A sone is a measure of loudness and will often be provided in the product information. The sone level of hoods can vary widely based on a range of factors including the model and maximum fan speed. Most units are capable of putting out approximately 7 sones but some louder units can be 13+ sones. To provide some reference, 7 sones is equal to the noise of a typical restaurant and 13 sones is someone laughing. As a general rule, the higher the CFM the louder the output, given the fact it is moving more air.
Hood Length
Most range hoods are somewhere between 30 and 36 inches wide, and you should choose one that is at least 3” inches wider than your stovetop. This helps to capture more of the fumes and steam coming off of the cooking area.
Grease Filters
Each unit will be equipped with grease filters that help to capture particles before they can enter the duct. These filters need to be periodically cleaned to maintain efficient airflow through the system. I recommend selecting a model that uses dishwasher-safe filters to make cleaning easier.
Lighting
A common feature that is quite helpful is built-in lighting on the underside of the hood. This provides additional illumination for the cooking area. Look for a hood that uses LED light bulbs to reduce heat and energy use.
Aesthetics
Make sure to look for a range hood that will look great in your kitchen. The right product will not only provide ventilation but will also add a prominent feature to complement your design scheme. The most common finish is stainless steel, however, some units are available in a range of colors to suit your particular interior design.
Installation
The installation process will differ depending on whether you end up going with a ductless or ducted model. Some homeowners hide their range hoods inside cabinets or even install them flush to the ceiling.
A ductless install is a relatively straightforward process that involves hardwiring and attaching the unit to the wall or ceiling. Installing a new ducted unit is more involved since you need to run a duct to the outside. However, if you are simply replacing an existing unit you can typically use the existing duct.
To give you an idea of the installation process for a new ducted model check out this brief video:
Now, on to the individual products. Each unit included below has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection. I have included a range of styles below so you can find an appropriate design for your particular kitchen aesthetic.
So here is my list of The Best Range Hoods for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Broan-NuTone 413004 Ductless Stainless Steel Range Hood
The Broan-NuTone 413004 includes a removable combination grease-charcoal filter for indoor exhaust recirculation.
Equipped with a protective lamp lens that distributes light evenly over the cook-top.
Features control switches for fan speed and light activation.
Installs as non-ducted only with charcoal filter.
Accepts up to 75W bulb (not included).
Offers the ability to work in an ADA-compliant application.
Comes in a variety of colors and widths to match your existing appliances and kitchen layout.
Runner-up: Broan F403004 Ducted Stainless Steel Range Hood
The Broan F403004 Ducted Stainless Steel Range Hood provides installation flexibility with four-way convertibility.
Designed for under cabinet use and installs as 3-1/4-Inch x 10-Inch ducted opening with vertical or horizontal ducting, or 7-Inch round vertical ducting or as non-ducted with air recirculation.
Equipped with a protective lamp lens that distributes light evenly.
Features control switches for fan speed and light activation.
Offers 160 CFM, 6.5 Sones (3-1/4-Inch x 10-Inch discharge), or 190 CFM (7-Inch round discharge).
Features a dishwasher-safe aluminum grease filter.
Offers the ability to work in an ADA-compliant application.
Includes 3-1/4-Inch x 10-Inch damper/adapter and 7-Inch round adapter.
Best Performance: Chef 30” PS18 Range Hood
The Chef 30” PS18 Range Hood provides 860 CFM to capture grease and odors from the kitchen.
Equipped with a stainless steel baffle filter that is dishwasher safe, making it extremely convenient to clean.
Features a delay auto shut-off function that can eliminate the rest of unwanted steam, smoke, and cooking odor before shutting off automatically.
Equipped with dual ultra-quiet motors for a more peaceful kitchen experience.
Features a display screen with a clock.
Equipped with six speed settings for a range of cooking applications.
Dimensions for under-cabinet install are 30" x 12".
Works with a 6" round vertical duct.
Best Premium Design: FOTILE JQG7501 Range Hood
The FOTILE JQG7501 Range Hood features a 45-degree tilt cavity with a metal impeller that prevents oil from contaminating the surface.
Features a light with a brightness of up to 500 lux to help illuminate the cooking area.
Equipped with a removable oil filter, allowing it to be cleaned quickly.
Features an oversized oil cup is designed with a larger accommodating space that requires cleaning less frequently.
Offers the ability to be mounted either under-cabinet or chimney.
Best Low-Profile: Chef Range Hood C190 Range Hood
The Chef Range Hood C190 Range Hood features modern stainless steel finishes and smart technology to allow this 30-inch range hood to work in a variety of settings.
Offers a slim under cabinet profile with dual quiet motors.
Features incandescent lighting to illuminate the cooking area.
Offers either top or rear venting options for flexibility.
Features three adjustable speeds.
Made for either 6” round or 10” x 3-1/4” rectangular exhaust ducts.
Best for Kitchen Islands: Winflo Glass and Stainless Steel Range Hood
The 30" Winflo Range Hood is constructed from durable stainless steel and tempered glass for a long-lasting design.
Provides up to 400 CFM airflow.
Equipped with simple push-button controls.
Features a three-speed fan.
Offers the ability to be converted to a ductless option with carbon filters.
Includes two ultra-bright energy-saving LED lights.
Produces 13 sones (65 decibels) at high speed.
Best for Cleaning: Cosmo Stainless Steel 200 CFM Range Hood
The Cosmo Stainless Steel 200 CFM Range Hood has modern styling to provide an elegant kitchen feature.
Constructed from brushed stainless steel making it rust and corrosion-resistant.
Provides up to 200 CFM of suction to remove smoke and cooking odors.
Equipped with two dishwasher-safe aluminum mesh filters collect unwanted grease and oil from the air.
Features simple push-button controls for quick and easy operation.
Includes a built-in LED light that helps with cooktop visibility.
Best Modern Design: FIREGAS Stainless Steel Range Hood
The FIREGAS Stainless Steel Range Hood comes in a 30-inch width with an elegant touch panel.
Includes a three-speed fan that can reach up to 380 CFM.
Equipped with two aluminum mesh filters keep unwanted oil particles from leaving odors.
Designed with filters that can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher.
Equipped with two LED lights to provide energy-efficient illumination of the cooking area.
Offers a ductless recirculating installation with a carbon filter kit (included).
Best Minimalist Design: Cosmo 250 CFM Ducted Range Hood
The Cosmo 250 CFM Ducted Range Hood features a slim profile and a design that complements a variety of kitchen designs.
Provides up to 250 CFM of exhaust volume.
Features a stainless steel body with electronic push controls.
Equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting.
Features three fan speeds for a range of cooking options.
Includes a set of mesh filters that can be quickly cleaned by hand.
Best Insert: KOBE INX2930SQBF-500-1 Range Hood
The KOBE INX2930SQBF-500-1 range hood features an insert configuration meaning that it is designed to be built into cabinetry and not fully exposed. As you can see from the image, the upper portion of the unit should be concealed as part of the final installation.
Constructed from commercial grade stainless steel for long-lasting durability.
Provides up to 550 CFM of air extraction.
Emits just 2.0 sones at the lowest speed setting.
Includes LED lights for energy-efficient illumination.
Equipped with a three-speed fan for flexibility when cooking.
Features a 6 inch round top exhaust.
Includes dishwasher-safe baffle filters and aluminum mesh filters for easy cleaning.
I hope this list of the best range hoods was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
