Is A Range Hood Necessary?

Range hoods collect the odors generated due to cooking, moisture and airborne grease. While this is the basic functionality of all range hoods, they are all created differently and have a different mechanism of air purification. They make the process of cleaning easier as they remove the contaminated air from the cooking stove which is the primary source. Some kitchen range hoods are designed to channel all unpleasant odor and unhealthy smoke out from the kitchen and some work on recirculation of air after cleaning it using filters and fans. The law of the land does not mandate installing a hood, however you must think well and then decide whether to keep or forgo the hood in your kitchen.

Different types of hoods:

  1. Ducted or vented hood: If you cook very frequently in the kitchen a ducted hood will help you in removing the polluted air from the kitchen by pushing it outside. A point to note while installing this type of hood is to make sure that it ends outdoors and not in a closed space like an attic.
  2. Ductless hood: This type of hood has a charcoal filter and a fan. The charcoal filters the air and removes odor, smoke, and grease. The filter needs to be replaced regularly for the good efficacy of this hood. In comparison to the vented hood, the ductless hoods are not as effective. The installation process of ductless kitchen range hoods is easier and they are more affordable.       
  3. Downdraft system: These systems are built-in as a part of the range and are often placed on the stovetop very near to the burners. A lot of users say that this system pulls the heat away from the cooking stove.

Benefits of using a range hood:

The below benefits of using range hoods prove why these are an essential component of the kitchen and why you must take a wise decision while choosing for or against them.

  1. Improved air quality: This is the most important role and benefit of a hood. It eliminates the pollutants, odor and potentially toxic gases from the kitchen. This purification of air also reduced the possibility of germs, mold and bacteria growing in the kitchen.
  2. Removal of excess heat and moisture: A hood removes excess heat that is generated during cooking and makes the cooking experience more comfortable. This makes the kitchen a little cooler and you can also save money on your air conditioning.
  3. Adds to the beauty of your kitchen: A hood when properly selected gels well with the overall design of the kitchen and becomes a part of it. An elegant hood adds to the appeal of a kitchen.
  4. Provides additional lighting: The interiors of the hood have additional lighting for illuminating the cooking space. However, different designs of hoods have different lighting. The high-end models have a wide array of designs and effects of lighting.

If you are planning to install a hood in your cooking space and need any information about it feel free to reach out to us at A1 Custom Stainless & Kitchens. You can give us a call on 0438 007 040.