Cooker Hoods: Steam Removal And Kitchen Odor Solution

Cooker hoods are designed to remove airborne grease, steam and cooking odours from kitchens. There are two types of cooker hoods: ducted and recirculating. Ducted hoods are considered the most efficient way of removing steam and odours as they extract the stale air out of the room through ducting in an outside wall. However, recirculating hoods are unable to remove steam or moisture caused by cooking, but they can still effectively remove grease and cooking odours.

• Hygiene and maintenance requirements
• Budget and cost
• Extraction rate
• Lighting
• Noise level |

Ducted vs. ductless hoods

Cooker hoods are an essential appliance for any kitchen, helping to clear the air of smoke, steam, and fumes while you're cooking. There are two main types of cooker hoods: ducted and ductless. So, which one is better?

Ducted hoods are external ventilation systems that must be connected to a duct in the wall, ceiling, or floor to function. They work by using a fan and an external vent to suck up smoke, steam, and fumes from the kitchen, pushing the exhaust through ductwork and out of the home. Ducted hoods are ideal for homes in humid climates as they remove moisture from the air. They are also commonly found in commercial kitchens or homes with larger ranges that generate more smoke and fumes.

One of the main drawbacks of ducted hoods is that they must be installed near a duct system that leads outside the home, which can limit their placement in the kitchen. Additionally, the installation process may be more complex and may require hiring a contractor.

On the other hand, ductless hoods are ventilation systems that do not require ductwork. Instead, they filter and recirculate the air back into the kitchen. These hoods can be installed almost anywhere since they don't need to vent to the home's exterior. Ductless hoods are more versatile and convenient in terms of installation, and some models even feature timers for automatic operation.

However, ductless hoods have their disadvantages. Because they recirculate the air instead of pulling in fresh air, the kitchen may become humid. Additionally, ductless hoods may be less efficient at removing strong cooking odors and grease from the air. The filters in ductless hoods also need to be cleaned or replaced regularly, which can be an ongoing cost for the homeowner.

When choosing between a ducted and ductless hood, consider your kitchen setup, cooking habits, and personal preferences. If you have ducts in your kitchen and want to ensure the removal of smoke, steam, and odors, a ducted hood is the best option. However, if you don't have ducts or are limited by building codes (as in the case of apartments), a ductless hood may be more suitable. Remember to also take into account factors such as air quality, humidity, budget, and installation costs when making your decision.

Extraction rates

The extraction rate of a cooker hood is a measure of how much air it can extract from your kitchen per hour. It is usually measured in cubic metres per hour (m3/h). The extraction rate is an important factor when choosing a cooker hood as it tells you how quickly the hood can remove smoke, steam, and odours from your kitchen.

The extraction rate you need depends on the size of your kitchen and the type of cooking you do. As a general rule, you should choose a cooker hood with an extraction rate that is at least as high as the volume of your kitchen. For example, if your kitchen measures 3m x 3m x 2.5m (22.5 cubic metres), you should choose a cooker hood with an extraction rate of at least 22.5m3/h.

However, if you do a lot of cooking that generates steam and smoke, such as frying or grilling, you may need a higher extraction rate. In this case, choose a cooker hood with an extraction rate that is higher than the volume of your kitchen. For instance, if you cook a lot, you may need an extraction rate of 30m3/h or more.

There is a simple formula to calculate the extraction rate you need: (kitchen height x kitchen length x kitchen width) x 10 = Extraction Rate. For a kitchen that is 4m long, 3m wide, and 2.5m high, the extraction rate calculation would be as follows: (30) x 10 = 300m3/h. This is the minimum extraction rate you should look for. Anything higher than this number will be suitable for your kitchen.

It is worth noting that the extraction rate is just one factor to consider when choosing a cooker hood. Other factors to consider include the type of hood, the noise level, and the design. You should select a hood that suits your needs, preferences, and budget.

Additionally, if you are recirculating the exhaust from your hood (i.e. using a carbon filter to clean the air instead of ducting it outside), you will need a more powerful hood. This is because the filter creates an obstacle to the airflow, causing the motors to run less efficiently. Ideally, you want a hood that achieves the desired extraction rate on at least the second-highest setting, so it won't be running at its loudest during normal operation.

Grease filters

When choosing a grease filter, it's important to consider the absorbency and material thickness. While some filters are very effective in absorbing grease, others may not be as absorbent. The material thickness can also vary, with some filters being thinner than others. It's recommended to replace your grease filter once it starts to change colour or when the saturation indicator turns red, signalling that it's time for a replacement.

Universal cooker hood grease filters are widely available and compatible with various brands, including Hotpoint, Beko, Zanussi, Electrolux, Bosch, and Neff. These filters typically come in packs of two and can be cut to the required size. They are fully flame-retardant and comply with British standards, ensuring safety in your kitchen.

In addition to universal options, there are also brand-specific grease filters designed for specific cooker hood models. For example, Bosch offers a pack of six paper grease filters as a genuine spare part for select models. Electruepart provides a universal cooker hood grease filter that can be cut to size, suitable for most brands and models.

When purchasing a grease filter, it's essential to consider the size, compatibility, and ease of installation. By regularly replacing your grease filter and combining it with a carbon filter, you can effectively remove grease, eliminate odours, and maintain a fresh and comfortable kitchen environment.

Charcoal filters

When using a charcoal filter in your cooker hood, it is important to replace the filter regularly. Charcoal filters should be replaced every two to three months, or every 50 hours of cooking, to maintain the efficiency of the cooker hood and prolong its lifespan. Failing to replace the charcoal filter can result in a build-up of grease and odours, which can affect the performance of the cooker hood and lead to increased maintenance costs.

It is also important to ensure that you purchase the correct type and size of charcoal filter for your cooker hood. Different cooker hood models may require specific types of charcoal filters, so it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions before purchasing. Additionally, some charcoal filters can be cut to size, allowing for a more versatile fit.

By using charcoal filters in your cooker hood, you can effectively remove smoke, grease, and odours from your kitchen, even in situations where ducting to the outside is not feasible. Regular replacement of the charcoal filters will help maintain the performance and longevity of your cooker hood.

Installation

Before installing a cooker hood, it is important to do some prep work. Ensure that your chosen cooker hood unit matches your stove dimensions, have the right tools ready, and obtain any permits necessary. Check your local building codes for requirements.

If you are replacing an existing cooker hood, the first step is to safely remove it by shutting off the power, unscrewing the wire nuts, and detaching all connections.

The next step is to choose the right location for the new cooker hood. It should have enough clearance and be centred over the stove. Most cooker hoods come with manufacturer instructions or a paper template to help mark the spot in your wall or cabinet before cutting or drilling. Remember to keep holes for mounting, venting, and electricals, and use a pencil to trace these so it will be easier to install the vented cooker hood later.

The next step depends on whether you are using a ducted or ductless cooker hood. Ductless cooker hoods do not vent the air outside of your home and circulate it instead. Ducted cooker hoods either draw air to the side of your house or upward through the ceiling. For a ducted cooker hood, identify the most accessible venting location. Often, this will be directly behind the wall, but it may also be through the ceiling. Ensure there is no electrical cable wiring or plumbing behind the wall. If the cooker hood is placed over a kitchen island, the vent must be routed through the roof.

If you are unsure which route would be shorter, you may need to enlist an electrician to check for you.

Once you have determined the ductwork route, cut the hole for the ductwork. The size of the hole will depend on the size of the ductwork, and you can use a hole saw to cut the hole in the wall behind your stove. Then, use a long drill bit to penetrate the drywall to create locator holes near the venting hole, which will get the ducting through to the outdoors. Next, cut the exterior vent pipe hole using the locator holes. Use a hole saw according to the shape and size of your venting hole.

Now, start installing the ductwork from the exterior and work your way in. Insert ducting through your vent hole, ensuring it spans from the outside to the cooker hood. You may need to use foil tape to connect sections of the duct and install the necessary elbows or bends.

The next step is to install the wiring. You must connect the wires to the electrical outlet if the range is hardwired. If the cooker hood is a plug-in, you must connect the plug to an outlet—install a plug if you don't have an existing one. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker and test it with an electrical tester. Then, connect the wires according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Calling an electrician for assistance is best if you don’t fully understand this step.

When your wiring and ductwork are sorted out, position your new cooker hood and prepare to secure it with mounting screws. It is safer to enlist the assistance of another person. Have your helper keep the hood in place while you check that the wiring and ducting are aligned, and use a screwdriver to tighten the mounting screws.

Finally, turn on the power and test the cooker hood to see if the fans and lights are working correctly. Also, check the exterior to ensure the ductwork is venting properly.

Frequently asked questions