What is the Difference Between a Range Hood and a Hood Fan?

Range hoods and hood fans are made for better kitchen air quality, but they are built for distinct purposes. The major difference between the two is that a range hood is the full unit that removes smoke, smells, heat, and airborne impurities from your kitchen. On the other hand, a hood/exhaust fan is a component inside the range hood. It is responsible for removing the excess moisture from the air, but it does not provide the same quality of extraction as a range hood.   

This blog is the ultimate breakdown of a range hood vs exhaust fan for the best kitchen ventilation. By the end, you'll know all about range hoods and exhaust fans and which appliance is the best for your home.

What is a Range Hood?

For those who wonder, what is the purpose of a range hood? A range hood's main purpose is to ventilate the kitchen. This useful kitchen appliance removes smoke, grease, heat, and odors from a cooking space. A proper kitchen ventilation system improves indoor air quality, prevents the buildup of grease on surfaces, and reduces condensation. The fan pulls the air through filters and ducts it outside or recirculates it in ductless models.  Range hoods are commonly placed above cooktops or stoves in kitchens to get rid of odors and smoke. 

Often, consumers prefer ZLINE range hoods for a stylish and functional addition to their kitchens. They offer good airflow and attractive designs with different features that make kitchen ventilation a smooth process. If you’re looking for a range hood that stands out as a centerpiece, then get the ZLINE 30" Ducted Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Range Hood with Black Matte Shell.

What is a Hood Fan?

Also known as the exhaust fan, a hood fan is the component inside the range hood, while the range hood is the whole unit. The major difference between an exhaust fan vs range hood is the purpose of the appliance. Hood fans either vent air outside through a duct or filter it and recirculate it inside the kitchen using filters. A hood fan prevents mold and mildew in the kitchen by pulling humid air outside.

Range Hood vs Exhaust Fan: Major Differences

Both range hoods and exhaust fans are important for ventilation. They contribute to better kitchen air quality. Here are some major differences that will help you make the right choice:

Types and Configurations

To figure out what suits you best, you need to understand the different types of range hoods. They come in a variety of styles and with different features.

Wall Mount Range Hoods: These are a popular type of range hood that provides ventilation with a range of CFM, making them compatible with a variety of essential kitchen appliances. They are mounted right above the cooktop for effective ventilation.

The ZLINE 30" Convertible Vent Wall Mount Range Hood in Stainless Steel from HomeComfortsDepot is a popular item among homeowners with dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters, built-in LED lighting, a high-performance 4-speed motor, and 6" PVC ducting.

Under-Cabinet Range Hoods: These types of range hoods are mounted underneath your kitchen cabinets and over your stove, and they are called under-cabinet range hoods. Since they are smaller and designed to fit under cabinets, they look as if they are built into the kitchen. Under-cabinet range hoods are ideal for removing odor and smoke and preserving any existing design. ZLINE models offer external venting along with high CFM, BTU ratings, and built-in LED lighting, like the ZLINE 30" Convertible Vent Under Cabinet Range Hood in Stainless Steel. 

Island Range Hoods: These are designed for a freestanding cooking surface. This hood vent is located in the center of the room to make a strong style statement and ensure powerful performance, like the ZLINE 30" Convertible Vent Wooden Island Mount Range Hood in Cottage White. The range hood comes with things that are needed for easy installation and use. Its key features include a 36.75" chimney, a high-performance motor, built-in LED lighting, and dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters. 

Exhaust fans come in a variety of types as well.

Ceiling-mounted exhaust fans are directly installed into the ceiling, making them useful for the removal of moisture in small spaces.

Wall-mounted exhaust fans are installed on an exterior wall. They are useful for smaller kitchens where there is no access to the existing ceiling.

Inline (Duct) fans are not in the room, but are located in the ductwork. These are valuable in larger spaces where noise reduction is key.

Performance Metrics 

Performance metrics in terms of airflow capacity, noise levels, and energy efficiency are some major considerations.

Airflow capacity is measured in terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute). It’s the amount of air a fan can move in a minute. If a range hood has a higher CFM, it means better removal of smoke, grease, odors, and moisture from the air in the kitchen. Range hoods can start at a CFM rate of around 200 - 400 CFM and be rated at around 600 - 1200+ CFM. Exhaust fans, on the other hand, are rated at around 50 - 150 CFM because they are only intended to remove moisture.

Another performance metric is noise level. Exhaust fans are quieter because of the smaller airflow. Their noise level can range from 0.5 to 4 sones, while the noise level in range hoods depends on fan size and speed. They can range from 1.5 to 7 sones.

Exhaust fans generally consume less energy, and energy-efficient hood fans may include timers and humidity sensors, so the fan only runs when the sensors are activated. Modern range hoods allow you to adjust power and fan speed based on what's cooking. If you are someone who cooks frequently with oil, fries, or grills, then a high-CFM range hood is the right choice for you.

Installation and Cost

Range hoods are more complex and often require ductwork. Homeowners, when renovating their kitchen, opt for a professional installation for range hoods. In comparison, exhaust fans are simpler and cheaper to install. In the US, installing a new range hood costs around $650–$2,100, but the cost varies with the type of range hood, ducting, electrical, and labor. The installation of a kitchen exhaust fan can cost around $100 to $500. The cost depends on labor and how complex it is to set up.

Maintenance and Cleaning

A range hood requires its filters to be cleaned up or replaced. All components of a range hood, like the fan blades, motor housing, exterior surfaces, and ductwork, need to be constantly checked. Grease fires are a common concern, and a clogged filter can lead to them.

Exhaust fans easily collect dust, lint, and damp particles. Buildup reduces airflow and can cause the motor to overheat. Maintenance for exhaust fans is easy; just switch off the power, remove the fan cover, and vacuum or wipe down the blades every 3-6 months. Wash the cover in warm, soapy water. Molding is a common concern; deep cleaning at least once a year to prevent health issues.

Exhaust Fan vs Range Hood: When To Choose Which

To sum up the range hood vs exhaust fan discussion, range hoods are a better option for homeowners who are culinary enthusiasts and are into heavy cooking, like frying, grilling, or wok cooking. But if a homeowner's priority is just moisture control, then an exhaust fan should be enough. All in all, they are must-have kitchen appliances.