Best Under Cabinet Range Hoods Review in 2023: Top 11 Products
Randy Halls Oct 5, 2023 12:16 AM
Overview
Range hoods are an important part of every kitchen. They keep the air clean and free of smoke and odors. But not all range hoods are created equal. Some are better than others. If you're in the market for a new range hood, be sure to check out the best under-cabinet range hoods. These hoods are compact, discreet, and highly effective at keeping your kitchen air clean. Plus, they're perfect for small kitchens!
Last update on 2023-10-05 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What are under-cabinet range hoods?
Under-cabinet range hoods are installed underneath kitchen cabinets to remove smoke, grease, and odors from the air. They are typically made of stainless steel or another type of metal, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different kitchen layouts.
Some under-cabinet range hoods have ductwork that goes through the roof, while others have ductless filters that need to be replaced periodically. Either way, these devices are effective at keeping your kitchen air clean and free of pollutants.
The price of under-cabinet range hoods can vary depending on the size, style, and features. Some models are designed for specific types of cooking, such as woks or outdoor grills. Others have additional features like built-in lighting or Bluetooth compatibility.
15 things to look for when buying under-cabinet range hoods
It might be difficult to know what to look for when shopping for an under-cabinet range hood. Here are 15 factors that you should consider before making your purchase:
1. Size
The size of the range hood is an important consideration, as it needs to be able to ventilate properly without being too large or obtrusive. The width of the hood should be at least as wide as the cooktop, and the height should be between 20 and 30 inches.
2. Style
There are several different styles of under-cabinet range hoods, including traditional, canopy, island, and wall-mounted models. The style that you choose will largely be a matter of personal preference, but it’s also important to make sure that the hood will be compatible with your kitchen layout.
3. Material
Under-cabinet range hoods are typically made of stainless steel or another type of metal. Some models also have a glass or wood finish. The material that you choose should be durable and easy to clean.
4. Venting Type
There are two main types of venting for under-cabinet range hoods: ducted and ductless. Ducted range hoods have an internal fan that pulls air through a duct and out of the house. Ductless range hoods have a filter that needs to be replaced periodically, but they don’t require any ductwork.
5. CFM Rating
The CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of a range hood indicates how much air it can move. The higher the CFM rating, the more powerful the range hood will be. For most home kitchens, a range hood with a CFM rating of 400 or more is sufficient.
6. Sones Rating
The sones rating of a range hood measures the noise level. A lower sones rating means that the range hood will be quieter. If you are concerned about noise, look for a range hood with a sones rating of 2 or less.
7. Lighting
Some under-cabinet range hoods come with built-in lighting, which can be helpful when cooking in low-light conditions. The type of lighting varies from model to model, but most hoods use either fluorescent or LED bulbs.
8. Controls
The controls of a range hood are used to operate the fan and lights. The type of controls that you prefer will largely be a matter of personal preference, but it’s important to make sure that the controls are easy to use and located in a convenient spot.
9. Filters
Filters are an important part of any range hood, as they help to remove smoke, grease, and odors from the air. Most range hoods come with dishwasher-safe filters that can be easily replaced when necessary.
10. Warranty
It’s always a good idea to check the warranty before purchasing an under-cabinet range hood. Most hoods come with a one-year warranty, but some models may have a longer or shorter warranty period.
11. Installation
Some under-cabinet range hoods are designed for easy installation, while others require more work. If you’re not comfortable installing the range hood yourself, be sure to check the installation fees before making your purchase.
12. Price
The price of an under-cabinet range hood can vary depending on the size, style, and features. In general, the more expensive models tend to be larger and have more powerful fans and additional features like built-in lighting.
13. Energy Efficiency
Many newer models of under-cabinet range hoods are designed to be Energy Star-certified, which means they meet certain energy-efficiency standards. If you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly option, choose an energy-efficient range hood.
14. Appearance
The appearance of an under-cabinet range hood is important if you want it to blend in with your kitchen décor. Stainless steel hoods have a modern look, while wood and glass hoods can give your kitchen a more traditional feel.
15. Brand
There are many different brands of under-cabinet range hoods on the market, so it’s important to do some research before making your purchase. Read online reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality and performance of different brands.
How to maintain your under-cabinet range hood?
After a long time of use, your under-cabinet range hood will need some maintenance in order to work properly. Here are some tips on how to maintain your hood:
1. Clean the filters regularly: The filters of your range hood capture grease and other particles from the air, so it’s important to clean them on a regular basis. Most filters are dishwasher-safe, so you can simply run them through the cycle once or twice a month.
2. Clean the exterior: The exterior of your range hood can become dirty over time, so be sure to wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge on a regular basis.
3. Dust the fan blades: The fan blades of your range hood can collect dust, so it’s important to dust them off on a regular basis.
4. Check the ductwork: The ductwork of your range hood should be checked periodically to make sure it’s not blocked or damaged.
5. Call a professional: If you’re having trouble cleaning or maintaining your range hood, it’s always a good idea to call a professional for help.
Conclusion
In the end, having the best under-cabinet range hood in your kitchen can make a big difference. Not only will it help to keep your kitchen air clean, but it will also reduce the amount of smoke and odors that linger in your home. When choosing an under-cabinet range hood, be sure to consider the size, style, and features that you need. Also, be sure to check the warranty and installation fees before making your purchase. And finally, don’t forget to maintain your range hood on a regular basis to ensure optimal performance. Thanks for reading!