The best range hoods are an integral part of the modern kitchen. If you cook regularly at home and spend more time scrubbing your kitchen, then it’s time for you to buy one.
A range hood is an advanced exhaust system that is installed directly above your cooking range. It eliminates smoke, heat, and unpleasant smells while you are cooking.
Not only will a powerful range hood decrease the time you spend in the kitchen, but it will also bring a positive impact on the health of your loved ones.
You can easily find one that coordinates with other appliances in your kitchen. Here are comprehensive range-hood reviews of the best-selling appliances to help you make the right choice.
Table of Contents
- The 5 Best Range Hoods for 2022 – Reviews by Consumer Reports
- 1. Hauslane | Chef Series 30″ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
- Pros
- Con
- 2. FOTILE JQG7501.E 30″ Range Hood
- Pros
- Con
- 3. Cosmo 63175S 30 Inch 380 CFM Wall Mount Kitchen Range Hood
- Pros
- Con
- 4. Cosmo 668ICS750 30 in. Island Mount Range Hood
- Pros
- Con
- 5. Cosmo 5MU30 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood
- Pros
- Cons
- How to Choose the Right Range Hood for Your Kitchen
- Cost
- Suction Power
- Sound
- Kitchen Layout
- Variable Power Settings
- How to Install a Range Hood Under the Cabinet
- Conclusion
The 5 Best Range Hoods for 2022 – Reviews by Consumer Reports
Let’s take a look at the five best range hoods for your kitchen reviews by Consumer Reports.
1. Hauslane | Chef Series 30″ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
The Hauslane Chef Series is a combination of functionality and performance. It features unsurpassed CFM suction capacity coupled with ease of usage.
All Hauslane’s products provide two years-limited warranty for parts and a lifetime motor warranty. Once you purchase the unit, the maintenance costs will be next to nothing. You don’t have to worry about repairs for a long time.
The unit is built-in with a unique auto shut-off system. You don’t have to worry about turning it off once you step out of the kitchen. It removes all odors and harmful gases even after cooking and turns off at a delayed time.
The stainless steel hood is shiny and ultramodern and can perfectly coordinate with other appliances in your kitchen. The range hood unit is equipped with dual-motor power and professional standard suction competency.
You can select from six settings to control the suction and noise as needed. Depending on what you are cooking, you can change the settings of your system.
Turn on the highest power while frying heavy meals. If you have a light dinner to make, you can shift to the slowest setting with minimum sound.
Older models would be pre-set on a single power setting, conserving more energy, thereby increasing bills.
The baffle filters have an unparalleled design that filters greasy, heavy air before it ruins your food or other surfaces. The filters, made out of high-grade aluminum, are incredibly durable. To clean the baffle filter, just remove it from the unit and stick it in the dishwasher.
The under cabinet range hood is very easy to install and needs no complicated constructional changes. It is because it can be connected from the back too. You don’t have to compromise on any other design element in your kitchen or undergo renovations.
Pros
- Six variable settings
- Easy to install
- Durable baffle filters
- Auto shut off
Con
- The touchpad can scratch after regular wiping
2. FOTILE JQG7501.E 30″ Range Hood
The brand Fotile needs no introduction when we talk about kitchen appliances. Their utmost devotion towards restructuring is evident from every single product of their range.
This range hood is where thorough research meets implementation. You know how frustrating it can get if your kitchen has poor lighting that doesn’t focus on your stovetop. The range hood features a powerful LED light, allowing you to cook peacefully without straining your eyes.
With its unique ability to sense residual smoke, the range hood features an automatic shut-off system. It keeps working as long as there is any trace of smoke or heat in your kitchen. It will automatically shut down when the sensor indicates the surrounding is clear.
You don’t have to worry about spending extra time scrubbing your range hood. The filter and grease tray are dishwasher safe, making clean-up effortless.
When you need to clean the screen, hold the power button for two seconds. This turns off the screen, and a quick wipe is all you need to get it spotless.
The Fotile 30-inch range hood has a unique 90-degree baffle plate that opens automatically and covers all four burners equally. Two premium-grade metal fans operate at the same time for robust exhaustion and eject fumes and heat swiftly.
Pros
- Removes 92% oil and almost 100% odor
- Less noise (54dB)
- Five-year warranty
Con
- Requires professional assistance to set up
3. Cosmo 63175S 30 Inch 380 CFM Wall Mount Kitchen Range Hood
Cosmo Appliances is a budding name in contemporary luxury kitchen appliances. It is gaining popularity due to the premium quality units, a complete blend of execution and technology.
By providing budget-friendly options and incomparable features such as bright two-inch LEDs, easily controlled suction power, and hassle-free cleanup, Cosmo has earned thousands of satisfied customers.
The heavy-duty steel body features permanent filters, reducing the cost of buying new ones every time they get clogged. Just slide the steel filters out and clean using a hard brush or run them in the dishwasher.
The Cosmo 380 CFM is a wall mount range hood. If your cooking range is on an island or a peninsula, it is essential to look for a range hood attached to your ceiling. You can convert it to ductless by installing a carbon filter kit.
The suction power of 380 CFM makes the Cosmo hood range perfect to be used with any of the electric stovetops. It has a vogue design and is manufactured with heavy stainless steel. This prevents it from getting any bumps or scratches.
An LCD screen and three variable power settings allow you to control the exhaust capacity easily. Depending on your cooking, you can set the hood on low, medium, or high power without worrying about unbearable noise. At 65 decibels, it’s even quieter than an average dishwasher.
With dishwasher-safe filters and a sleek stainless steel body, clean-up will take you less than a minute.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Less noisy
- Easy to clean
Con
- Difficult to install to the chimney
4. Cosmo 668ICS750 30 in. Island Mount Range Hood
This is another of Cosmo’s best-selling range hoods suitable for stovetops placed away from the wall.
The unit features permanent filters that are easy to clean. All you need to do is pop them in the dishwasher; far more eco-friendly and cheaper than replacing them every time they are clogged. You have to spray a mixture of soap and water to wipe down the unit.
Equipped with a suction force of 380CFM, this range hood absorbs unwanted smells and fumes. While you can cook a heavy meal in your kitchen, no one in the other room needs to smell a thing!
The range hood is ducted, which means all smells are ejected far away from your house. It is crucial if you have an open kitchen and food odors make your living area smell unpleasant.
This premium range hood is available at an affordable price with essential features. The unit uses LED lights that are incredibly durable and make cooking easy-breezy.
The five-year-long manufacturer warranty is enough to provide you peace of mind when investing. Moreover, Cosmo prides itself on providing the best customer service all over the USA. They happily offer extensive assistance whenever needed.
Pros
- Five-year warranty
- Height is adjustable if the ceiling is high
- Can convert to ductless using additional filter
- Light bulbs are easily replaceable
Con
- Fewer power settings
5. Cosmo 5MU30 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood
Cosmo has gained popularity due to its competitive prices coupled with state-of-the-art kitchen appliances. Their 5MU30 under cabinet hood provides unsurpassed exhaustion power without creating a dent in your pocket.
The sleek stainless steel range hood is easy to install under any cabinet, providing a comfortable cooking experience.
In well-insulated homes, there is no outlet for smoke, heat, and moisture to vent out. With Cosmos’s under cabinet range hood, you can bid farewell to smelly and moisture-laden houses.
The unique system equipped with three power settings ensures that you no longer need to wake up to the smell of last night’s meal. Moreover, the unit combines formidable suction power without creating unbearable sound or noise. It’s a treat for your ears and eyes!
It provides maximum suction capacity through long-lasting aluminum filters and a triple filtration system. It also comes with an option if you prefer a ducted system. A ducted system will require an additional filter and set up, but it will make your house crisp and drier.
Pros
- Easily modified to Ductless/ ducted
- Less noisy
- Budget-friendly
- Five-year warranty for parts
- LED lights
Cons
- The plug is not hardwired
- Need more than one person to install
- Push-buttons may be challenging to clean
How to Choose the Right Range Hood for Your Kitchen
An exhaust system is as crucial as a stovetop. But how do you choose the right one for your kitchen and lifestyle? As you go through your options, keep these essential factors in mind.
Cost
A range hood can cost between a hundred to a few thousand dollars. Typically, oversized range hoods cost more as compared to smaller sizes. Moreover, a range hood with added features and state-of-the-art design will generally be pricier.
Under-the-cabinet hoods are generally on the lower end of the price scale, whereas wall mount and island styles are steeply-priced.
Installation costs also vary depending on the model. You will need to pay more for models that require a complex installation procedure.
Suction Power
A range hood’s exhaust capacity is calculated in cubic feet per minute (CFM). An electric stove produces less smoke and therefore requires under 400 CFM power. But if you have a gas cooking range, you will need at least 700- 1000 CFM power.
If you have a big family, you will require a powerful range hood. On the other hand, if you cook basic meals only on weekends, then a smaller unit will do the job for you.
It is important to remember that a ductless model will not provide the same result even if it operates on a high CFM power. This is because ductless range hoods circulate the air back in after filtration.
On the flip side, a ducted range pushes the air outside, resulting in an elevated indoor environment.
Sound
A range hood’s sound is measured in decibels or sones. Most manufacturers mention the decibel level when used in the highest power setting.
While it is vital to get a hood with solid power, it will be useless if it’s too noisy. This may not be an issue in commercial kitchens but carries utmost importance in a residential kitchen.
The amount of noise a range hood produces also depends on where the blower is located. If the blower is attached outside the house, it can provide excellent suction power without being too noisy.
Range hoods with external blowers are generally more expensive but significantly lower the noise inside your kitchen.
Depending on your cooking needs, you can choose a range hood that works well without creating too much noise.
Kitchen Layout
A range hood may not be the most sought-after appliance when designing your kitchen, but it plays a vital role once you begin cooking.
Ideally, the range hood should be at least as wide as the stovetop. It can extend up to three inches from each side. The best range hoods cover the stovetops entirely for concentrated suction.
Depending on your kitchen layout, you can install an under-cabinet hood, island hood, wall mount hood, or chimney range hood.
If you want to use a chimney range hood, it can act as a central point of your layout. On the contrary, an under the cabinet model will be understated and remain low-key.
Your kitchen design will also decide whether you can install a ductless or ducted hood. A ducted hood requires a duct for the heavy air to be vented out of the building. This is not always possible due to complicated layouts, and thus your choices are restricted.
Variable Power Settings
Unlike conventional range tops, most modern ones have three to six variable power options available. Apart from being eco-friendly, the settings allow you to select the fan’s power depending on your cooking.
When you have a simple weekday meal, a lower level would easily suffice. But if it’s an elaborate holiday meal for your extended family, you may want to set the hood at the highest speed.
The power controls always allow you to modify the noise created by the unit. Higher settings mean higher noise and vice versa. Without this imminent feature, you won’t be able to control the sound created by your unit.
How to Install a Range Hood Under the Cabinet
If you have basic knowledge about how electric appliances work, installing a range hood on your own will not likely intimidate you. We will walk through the process in detail, so you are confident and can install an under cabinet range hood without any hiccups.
The unsung hero of appliances, the range hood, is straightforward to install. However, before you begin setting it up, it is best to plug in the unit and check that all settings and buttons work correctly. It’s convenient to check at this point, rather than once you’re done.
It’s a better idea to remove your stove while setting the hood. If you are unable to do so, cover it with a piece of plywood. This prevents any accidental bumps or scratches on your beloved cooking range.
The installation process is easier when you have a helping hand since most range hoods weigh around fifty to sixty pounds. Nevertheless, you can do it alone using more muscle power and a cabinet jack(or a car jack).
Keep a few simple tools handy: a level, measuring tape, pencil, aluminum tape, keyhole saw, and a drill machine.
Next, determine the exact position of your hood. Professionals suggest that ideally, it should be thirty inches above the stovetop.
Then take exact measurements where the screws will be placed and drill holes in the cabinet on top. If your hood is ducted, measure the duct and make an appropriately sized hole in the vent’s cabinet.
With the help of a partner or using a cabinet jack, slide up the unit in place. Use a level to make sure that it aligns horizontally. Plug the power cord in the electrical socket. Finally, install the filters and grease tray included in the box.
Once you are done with the installation, run the unit to check that it is properly connected.
We hope that this installation guide was beneficial to you. If you are still unsure, it is best to hire a professional.
Conclusion
A range hood sucks out any lingering particles of grease suspended in the air, preventing sticky residue buildup on your counters, cabinets, and backsplash. It also helps circulate the air around the cooking range and protects from harmful fumes.
Since most houses have an open kitchen and insulation improvements, it is vital to keep the air clean which otherwise remains trapped inside. It is a rather petty investment when you think about the overall health benefits.
You know what they say: Health is wealth! Go ahead, and you will never have to set off that smoke alarm again.
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FAQs
Which is the best range hood to buy? ›
- Chef PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood - Best to Buy in 2022. ...
- FOTILE JQG7501 30-Inch Range Hood - Best High-End Hood. ...
- Z Line KB Wall Mount Range Hood - Best Wall Mount Hood. ...
- Broan Non-Ducted Hood 41000 Series - Best Ductless Range Hood.
Most range hoods offer air flow between 300 and 700 CFM, but if you want a unit that delivers unbeatable power, the ThorKitchen Ducted Wall Mount Range Hood delivers an impressive 1,200 CFM on its highest setting.
How much should I spend on a range hood? ›It typically costs between $400 and $1,500 to install a range hood, with the average being $750. Installing a ductless range or a replacement range hood with existing ductwork falls on the lower end.
How do I choose a quiet range hood? ›Choosing a range hood at the lower end of the sones scale will help you avoid excess noise. Range hoods at six or seven sones operate at approximately 65 decibels. Most manufacturers list sones at the maximum control setting. So, if you purchase a range hood rated at six sones, it will be quieter on its lowest setting.
What should I look for when buying a hood? ›- Airflow. Manufacturers tout the cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air exhausted by their range hoods. ...
- Exhaust timer. This convenient feature turns off the fan after a set period of time.
- Filters. ...
- Number of fan speeds. ...
- Size. ...
- Style. ...
- Thermostat control.
Be aware that it is also possible to have a hood that is too big and too powerful. You don't want to suck too much air from your kitchen; otherwise, you may require a make-up air kit to supply your kitchen with additional oxygen.
What is the quietest CFM for range hood? ›We recommend purchasing a hood with at least 600 CFM. Under 600 CFM simply isn't enough power to satisfy most homeowners. Even though the hood may be quieter, it more than likely won't remove all the grease, smoke, and cooking odors from your kitchen. That's it for our guide on the quietest range hoods of 2022.
What happens if CFM is too high? ›Not only will this exhaust fan be drawing more energy than necessary, but the extra CFM might cause other issues like drafts or the inability to dry up the moisture still hanging around in the bathroom.
Is 300 CFM or 400 CFM better? ›CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and is a measurement of the cubic feet per minute of air a fan can draw. This means that the higher the CFM, the more powerful the air suction. So a 1000 CFM fan will draw more air than say, a 400 CFM.
Which ranges last the longest? ›Of the major appliances in a home, gas ranges have the longest life expectancy: 15 years. Dryers and refrigerators last about 13 years.
What brand range does Joanna Gaines use? ›
Joanna Gaines has built the kitchen for her upcoming cooking show around her stainless steel and brass La Cornue Chateau 150 range.
What brand of ranges are made in the USA? ›Viking Ranges
Their first residential line of commercial-grade stoves debuted in 1987 and have dominated as an American brand gas range ever since. Owned by the USA-based Middleby Corporation since 2012, all Viking ranges are made by hand at their Greenwood, MS headquarters.
Measure the width of the area over the range or cooktop. Range hoods often come in 24", 30" or 36" widths. The hood should be at least as wide as the cooking surface, but preferably should be 6" wider.
How long do hood ranges last? ›The range hood, which is typically installed over the range to trap grease particles and cooking odors, lasts about 14 years.
What size range is best? ›The 30 Inch Range
The 30-inch range is the most common size out there. This is what you will typically find in a regular household kitchen. It's big enough to serve its purpose for daily use and it doesn't take up any extra space.
Stainless steel is a popular choice for range hoods because it's long lasting, easy to clean, and requires little maintenance. A stainless steel hood will also match many other kitchen appliances, utensils, and stainless steel cookware.
Is 7 sones loud for a range hood? ›...
Defining the Sones Rating.
| Sones | Decibels |
|---|---|
| 6 | 53.83 |
| 7 | 56.06 |
| 8 | 57.98 |
| 9 | 59.68 |
...
What size range hood insert do I need?
| Kitchen Range Width | Custom Hood Size | Range Hood Insert Size |
|---|---|---|
| 36" | 42" | 40" |
| 42" | 48" | 46" |
| 48" | 54" | 52" |
| 54" | 60" | 58" |
Cooker Hood Noise Levels
The majority of cooker hoods are rated at around 60-70 decibels (dB). If you plan to cook while entertaining or socialising, you may want to invest in a quieter cooker hood with a lower dB rating.
Your range hood should be deep enough to cover all rear and front burners to most effectively vent your cooking space. For most range hoods, you can plan on a depth of about 18" to 22" for full coverage. Downdraft vents typically require installation in a cabinet below that's at least 24" deep.
How can I improve my range hood suction? ›
- Clean the filters.
- Clean the blower(s).
- Make sure there is nothing obstructing the duct.
- Leave the fan on for 10-15 min after you finish cooking.
It is worth it in the long run to buy a more expensive, higher quality hood. You won't have to spend as much extra money on replacement parts down the line. Not to mention that a low quality hood could break down after a few years. Then you'll have to buy a new hood – and that won't be friendly to your wallet.
How high is too high for a range hood? ›The standard height for a range hood is between 28 and 36 inches from the cooktop for a gas range and electric range. 28 inches is the minimum height. If the hood is any closer, it may become damaged. Any further than 36 inches and your hood won't move air away from your cooktop efficiently.
Is it better to have more CFM or less? ›A higher CFM is always better for your kitchen fan. You can always run a high CFM hood on lower settings. It provides great ventilation by moving a heavy amount of air per minute. If you cook often or enjoy Asian cooking, a high powered fan is essential to keep grease out of your kitchen exhaust system.
How many CFM do I need for my range? ›For gas cooking surfaces or range, a minimum ventilation level of 100 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) per 10,000 BTU is recommended. However, the hood must have a minimum of 500 CFM of ventilation power.
Does higher CFM mean louder? ›As CFM increases, sone (or volume) level increases. Range hoods from big box stores can be quite noisy even if they are a low CFM, because they are lower quality. But, a professional hood will be quieter at every speed, since it's built with a more efficient motor, and better quality parts.
Does More fans mean better airflow? ›When you use a larger fan, a greater airflow rate can be achieved at a lower RPM. This means that fans only have to spin at a fraction of the speed compared with smaller ones to achieve the same airflow rate. The other main thing that helps keep your system cooler and quiet is the number of fans you use.
Does adding more fans increase CFM? ›Stacking fans directly on top of each other generally increases turbulence, static pressure, and cost without having a definite positive impact on CFM and cooling. Ideas to increase CFM would include: Purchase a fan that has more CFM.
What type of fan moves the most air? ›A powerful floor fan is usually most effective at moving the greatest amount of air in larger spaces, but anyone who needs to save space may want to look into a tower fan with a smaller footprint, such as our best overall, the Better Homes & Gardens 40-inch 3-Speed Tower.
How many CFM do I need for 2000 square feet? ›What is a good CFM airflow? ›
Under 200 square feet: 2,000 to 3,000 CFM. 200 to 300 square feet: 3,000 to 4,000 CFM (typically a standard bedroom or kitchen) 300 to 450 square feet: 4,000 to 6,000 CFM (usually a master bedroom or living room) Over 450 square feet: 5,000 to 9,000 CFM.
How many CFM should a house have? ›Example: A small 500 square feet house requires anywhere from 200 CFM to 400 CFM whole house fan size. A big 3000 sq ft house requires much bigger whole house fans, with airflow generating ranging from 1200 CFM to 2400 CFM. Installed ducts for a 1600 CFM whole house fan in a 2600 sq ft house.
How long do range hoods last? ›The range hood, which is typically installed over the range to trap grease particles and cooking odors, lasts about 14 years.
Is Wolf range the best? ›Wolf leads the way in independent temperature controls. Its dual convection oven features dual blowers to circulate heat evenly and a fan motor with an independent temperature sensor for higher quality cooking and baking. This allows the motor to turn on whenever it's needed to improve temperature distribution.
What is the best stainless steel range hood? ›- Cosmo COS-QS75.
- Cosmo 5MU30.
- Broan-NuTone 403004.
- Ciarra Wall Mount.
- Cosmo Island.
In terms of overall performance, these two range brands are very close; however, we must select Thermador as the overall winner in this space. For one, Thermador's patented burners will give you a better, more even heat on your cooktop. You'll also get more cooking space on the brand's larger model compared to Wolf's.
What ranges are made in Italy? ›- ILVE. ILVE have been a globally renowned cooker brand for over 60 years, with each of their range cookers being hand-built by an individual craftsman at their factory near Venice. ...
- Bertazzoni. ...
- DeLonghi. ...
- Fulgor Milano. ...
- Smeg. ...
- Steel.
Answer: Residential Wolf appliances are manufactured by the Wolf Appliance Company in Fitchburg, Wisconsin.
What is a better range Viking or Wolf? ›The Viking range beats the Wolf range at both high and low temperatures. Viking's front burners heat up to 23,000 BTUs and a simmer burner in the back reaches a low of 8,000 BTUs. The Wolf range heats up to 15,000 BTUs and reaches a low simmer of only 9,200 BTUs.
Which is better a vented or unvented range hood? ›Without question. It's far preferable to vent the air outdoors than to recirculate it into the room. A vented hood that removes steam, smoke, heat, and cooking odors is the best way to keep your kitchen clean, since it gets rid of grease particles that would otherwise accumulate on your walls and cabinets.