Range Hood Buying Guide
The 6 Types of Ducted Range Hoods
If your kitchen is equipped with a ventilation system, you can choose from several types of range hoods, each with its own advantages.
Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Affordable and practical, Under-Cabinet Range Hoods remain the go-to choice in many family kitchens. Mounted beneath wall cabinets, they provide efficient ventilation while maintaining a discreet profile. Available in both ducted and ductless versions, they adapt easily to a variety of kitchen layouts, making them a versatile and accessible option.
Wall-Mount Range Hood
With their angular lines and modern flair, Wall-Mount Range Hoods bring a bold visual statement to your kitchen. Mounted directly to the wall, they typically vent to the outside but can also operate in recirculating mode. This style balances striking design with strong performance.
Insert Range Hood
Virtually invisible, the Insert Range Hood is a favorite in sleek, minimalist kitchens. It integrates into custom or standard cabinetry and blends seamlessly with your décor. Despite its low profile, it can be impressively powerful—especially models with a remote motor. Expect a combination of strong airflow, quiet operation, and elegant design.
Island Range Hood
Suspended over a kitchen island, the Island Range Hood draws as much attention as it does cooking vapors. Its adjustable duct allows flexible installation heights, and its powerful suction makes it ideal for large open-concept kitchens. More than just functional, an Island Range Hood often becomes a central design element.
Downdraft Range Hood
Sleek and cutting-edge, the Downdraft Range Hood rises automatically from the cooktop when in use, then disappears completely when turned off. Perfect for fans of understated design, it requires higher power levels due to its low position. It’s a premium choice for modern, sophisticated kitchens.
Over-the-Range Microwave Hood
Space-saving and convenient, this hood combines ventilation and microwave cooking in a single unit installed above the stove. Though it maximizes space, its suction power tends to be limited—making it better suited for smaller kitchens.
What’s the Right Suction Power for a Range Hood?
For most residential kitchens, a range hood with 400 to 600 CFM (cubic feet per minute) offers a good balance between performance and comfort. To help you make the best choice, our appliance specialists share their expert advice by answering the four most frequently asked questions about range hood power.
How to Calculate the Ideal Airflow for Your Range Hood
The required suction power depends directly on the volume of your kitchen. To get a reliable estimate, multiply the width, length, and height of the room (in feet), then multiply that number by 10 and divide the result by 60. For example, a kitchen measuring 24 feet by 14 feet with a 9-foot ceiling would need approximately 504 CFM. If your kitchen opens onto another room, be sure to calculate the volume of the entire space, not just the cooking area.
What Range Hood Power Should You Choose Based on Your Cooktop?
For an electric cooktop, a range hood with 400 to 500 CFM is usually sufficient to remove steam and odors effectively. However, gas cooktops release gases like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, which must be vented out efficiently. In this case, opt for a hood with at least 500 CFM — or 600 CFM if your appliance exceeds 60,000 BTUs.
Why Should You Avoid Overpowered Range Hoods?
A range hood with 1,000 CFM or more may seem powerful, but such units are typically designed for commercial rather than residential use. In a well-insulated home, excessive airflow can create negative pressure, which may lead to heat loss in winter and increased heating needs. That’s why JC Perreault specialists always recommend selecting a power level that’s appropriate for your space, rather than simply aiming for maximum performance.
What Is the Recommended Distance Between the Hood and the Cooktop?
For safe and effective ventilation, the height of your hood installation should correspond to the type of cooktop. Above an electric cooktop, a distance of 20 to 25 inches is recommended. For a gas cooktop, a height of 25 to 30 inches is preferable due to the higher heat output. If your hood is installed more than 30 inches above the cooktop, consider adding about 100 CFM for every additional 3 inches to maintain effective suction. In all cases, always refer to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
Which Features Are Right for You?
Built-In Lighting
Enjoy well-designed lighting that makes cooking easier. Most hoods use LED lights—energy-efficient, long-lasting, and sometimes dimmable. Some still use halogen lights, which are brighter but consume more energy.
Control Buttons
Choose between simple, reliable mechanical switches or backlit electronic controls based on your preference. For high-mounted Island Range Hoods, a remote control can be a real asset.
Adjustable Fan Speeds
Tailor the ventilation to your needs with 3 to 6 speed settings. Need a quick smoke clear-out? Some hoods feature a boost mode. Others adjust automatically based on detected heat or steam.
Sensors and Auto Shut-Off
Smart hoods can turn on automatically when they detect smoke or heat. A delayed shut-off feature keeps the fan running for a few minutes after cooking, then powers down on its own.
Smart Connectivity
Want to control your hood from your smartphone? With smart models, you can turn the fan on or off remotely, schedule ventilation cycles, and even monitor air quality in real time.
Efficient Filters and Easy Maintenance
Most hoods include aluminum or stainless steel grease filters that are dishwasher-safe. Recirculating models also use charcoal filters to absorb odors. Many hoods come with filter-cleaning alerts to help you maintain top performance.
Remote Motor for Quiet Performance
Some hoods allow the motor to be installed outside your home, such as in the attic or on the roof. Available for ducted models, this setup drastically reduces noise but requires more complex installation.
Explore our most popular range hoods
- 670924
- 625033
- 571681
- 624976
- 485809
- 674589
- 695260
- 576690
- 625034
- 508044
- 539914
- 576704
- 576715
- 625036
How Can You Tell If a Range Hood Is Quiet?
A range hood is considered quiet when its noise level stays below 60 dB at maximum speed. The most discreet models start as low as 35–40 dB on their lowest setting.
Some manufacturers also use the sone scale, which measures how sound is perceived rather than its physical intensity. As a reference, ½ sone is roughly equivalent to 30 dB, 1 sone to about 40 dB, 2 sones to 50 dB, and 4 sones to 60 dB. The lower the sone rating, the quieter the hood.
Some models also allow the motor to be installed remotely—either in the attic or on the roof. This setup, available only with externally vented hoods, significantly reduces kitchen noise, although it requires a more complex installation.
Energy Star Certification
According to Natural Resources Canada, an Energy Star certified range hood meets strict efficiency standards. These models reduce electricity use while effectively removing smoke and odors.
On average, the exhaust fans with lights in these hoods use 70% less energy than standard models. With an Energy Star rated hood, you benefit from a healthier cooking environment and better energy control.
How to Clean and Maintain a Range Hood
Regular maintenance of your range hood and its filters helps preserve its performance and extend its lifespan.
Degrease Monthly
Clean all hood surfaces using a degreaser or dish soap to remove buildup.
Clean the Filters
Clogged filters lose effectiveness. Soak aluminum or stainless steel filters in hot, soapy water—or run them through the dishwasher. While cleaning, check the fan blades behind the filters and clean them if needed.
Replace Filters
If your hood uses charcoal filters, replace them 2–3 times a year, depending on how often you cook—or follow the manufacturer's recommendations.