When it comes to designing or upgrading your kitchen, few appliances play as important a part as the range hood. Beyond adding an appealing look above your stove, the hood removes smoke, odours, grease, and heat, making your kitchen look good and safe. But with so many types of range hoods on the market, how do you know which one is the best for your kitchen, cooking style, and budget?
In this blog, we will go through the most common types of hoods, define the styles of hood vents, and identify the best range hoods for you to consider upgrading to. You will leave here equipped to choose which kitchen hood is right for your home.
What Is the Vent Above the Stove Called?
Let’s begin with a simple but common question: What is the vent above the stove called? The answer is a range hood (also known as a vent hood or kitchen hood). Although the names differ, their function remains consistent: to ventilate your cooking area by pulling in smoke and grease and releasing them outside.
Why Range Hoods Are Essential Kitchen Appliances
When people think of essential kitchen appliances, they often look for refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves. However, the range hood is equally important. Without proper ventilation, your house can fill with smoke and unpleasant odours from food. Over time, grease build-up can also create a fire hazard. Choosing the right types of range hoods makes sure of functionality and a stylish kitchen setup.
The Main Types of Range Hoods
Below are the six types of range hoods you will see, each with unique features, methods, and benefits.
1. Wall-Mounted Range Hoods
These are the most popular vent hood options. Installed directly against the wall, wall-mounted hoods become a key point in modern kitchens. If you have cabinetry above your stove, you may be required to remove it to accommodate this design.
Recommended option: ZLINE 30" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Range Hood, a sleek model that provides both durability and aesthetic appeal.
2. Under-Cabinet Range Hoods
Under-cabinet models are the best choice for small kitchens or for users who want to keep everything under the cabinets. They can be small, efficient, and less expensive compared to others, especially since they are one of the most used types of range hoods in kitchens.
3. Island Range Hoods
If your cooking range sits in a kitchen island, you will need an island hood that hangs from the ceiling. These have a more dramatic design, making them functional and stylish. One of the best types of range hoods.
Recommended option: ZLINE 34" Ducted Island Mount Range Hood Insert in Stainless Steel, a premium choice for open-concept kitchens.
4. Insert Range Hoods
As for insert hoods, they are designed to be built into custom cabinetry that will help you create a cohesive kitchen design with good ventilation.
5. Downdraft Range Hoods
While less commonly used today, downdraft hoods still pull air down and vent it outside and are best used in kitchens when a standard hood above the stove is not an option.
6. Ductless (Recirculating) Range Hoods
Not all homes have ductwork to allow air to vent to the outside. When this is the case, ductless hoods use a charcoal or carbon filtering process to filter your air and vent it back into the kitchen. They are convenient but typically not as strong as ducted options.
Comparing Vent Hood Options
When evaluating vent hood options, keep in mind the following factors:
Size: Your hood should be at least as wide as your cooking range, if not slightly wider.
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This is a measurement of airflow. Higher CFM may be required for stronger cooks, especially for gas and Forno cooktops.
Noise Level: Keep in mind quieter motors if your kitchen is open to other spaces.
Style: There are many designs available for your kitchen hood. Kitchen hood options can complement your kitchen or completely change its style or look.
ZLINE Range Hoods: Premium Hood Vent Styles
When you want it all and need a premium hood, ZLINE range hoods are the best in class. ZLINE range hoods are known for their fusion of modern aesthetics and dependability. These professional ranges have models, no matter the type of installation. Pictured above, not only do all of the products look excellent together aesthetically, but they also help create an efficient system in mixing and matching ZLINE appliances.
Expanding Beyond Range Hoods: Kitchen Complements
While hoods are central to the event, a full kitchen usually includes other appliances that coordinate in both form and function. ZLINE offers many options that are worth looking at:
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ZLINE Microwaves – Versatile models that fit perfectly into modern cabinetry.
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ZLINE 30 in. Wall Oven in DuraSnow Stainless Steel (Electric) – Best for homeowners wanting a durable and stylish oven.
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ZLINE Autograph Edition 36" 4.6 cu. ft. Dual Fuel Range with Gas Stove and Electric – A professional-grade kitchen appliance to complete the overall look.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hood includes more than just picking a size. With so many types of range hoods options, the thing is to balance performance, aesthetics, and compatibility with your other important kitchen appliances.
For those looking to build a modern kitchen, brands like ZLINE range hoods offer premium collusion that aligns beautifully with other ZLINE products. Be very careful choosing the kitchen hoods; that will ensure the safety, efficiency, and appeal.
Whether you want a dramatic island Whether you choose a hood or a subtle under-cabinet option, the right choice will enhance your cooking experience for many years.
