21 Best Range Hoods for 2024
Range hoods are a must-have appliance for any kitchen. They help extract heavy grease and smoke produced from your cooking. A professional hood will keep your kitchen air clean and keep cooking odors out.
If you’re looking for a new home or remodeling your kitchen, you’ll want a range hood to keep your air clean and make your job in the kitchen easier.
That’s where we come in. At Proline Range Hoods, we have over 15 years of experience in the range hood industry. Recently featured on Yahoo Finance, Business Wire, and KSU Sentinel, we are becoming one of the biggest names in this fast growing industry.
We’re going to go over 21 of the best range hoods from Proline in great detail. We’ll discuss all their features, what makes them unique, and compare each model side by side.
We’ll start with the top four under cabinet range hoods, then move on to island hoods, inserts, wall mount range hoods, and finally outdoor hoods.
If you’re not quite ready to make a purchase, don’t worry. We’ve got an extensive buyer’s guide and FAQ section at the end of this post. It’ll help you make the best decision based on your current situation. Check out the buyer's guide video below.
Top 4 Under Cabinet Range Hoods
PLJW 185
Looking for a low profile range hood that won't take up valuable space in your kitchen? The PLJW 185 is the perfect choice. At only 5 inches tall, this model has incredible power thanks to a dual 600 CFM blower. This much power is hard to come by in under cabinet range hoods! You don’t have to use the max power all the time either. The four-speed blower can be easily adjusted thanks to the stainless steel push button controls. They’re easy to access in the front of the hood, and you can also turn on the bright LED lights!
Once you’re done in the kitchen, simply remove the greasy baffle filters and toss them in your dishwasher. Cleaning is that easy.
Depending on your duct setup, this under cabinet range hood can be rotated to the back to vent horizontally.
It’s available in 30” and 36” sizes, making it the perfect fit for the average kitchen or apartment. Purchase your low-profile PLJW 185 right here!
What We Like
- Low profile five-inch height
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Powerful 600 CFM, four-speed dual blower
- Easy-to-use stainless steel push buttons
- Bright LED lights
- Durable 430 stainless steel
- Can convert to recirculating
What We Don't
- Not ideal for heavy constant frying, grilling, or cooking high heat food
- For indoor use only
- Only available in 30” and 36
PLJW 121
The PLJW 121 under cabinet range hood is everything your kitchen needs! It's stylish yet efficient and has the power to clean up every grease particle and oil droplet in the room. The bright LED Lights are a great perk, making it easy to see what you’re doing while cooking. You don't have to worry about grease, smoke, and contaminants staying in your home thanks to a powerful 900 CFM dual blower. At 900 cubic feet per minute, you can even do a little frying or high-heat cooking.
Our 121 model features sleek stainless steel push buttons where you can adjust the blower speed and lights. This under cabinet hood has four speeds so it will adapt to almost anyone’s cooking style.
Last but not least, the stainless steel baffle filters are the icing on the cake. If you do a lot of cooking, you might worry about cleaning out the grease from the filters. But ours are dishwasher safe, saving you valuable time and effort in the kitchen.
Focus more on preparing your delicious meal and less on cleaning with the PLJW 121. Buy yours below.
What We Like
- Powerful 900 CFM, four-speed dual blower
- Bright, energy-efficient LED lights
- Sleek stainless steel push button controls
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Durable 430 stainless steel
What We Don't
- Not usable in outdoor kitchens
- Cannot convert to ductless/recirculating
PLJW 125
Stop worrying about your dirty kitchen! Get the PLJW 125 under cabinet range hood to protect you from all the pesky cooking fumes and smoke. This stylish, stainless steel range hood features a sleek design that’s easy to clean. It also comes with stainless steel baffle filters that save you time scrubbing at tough grease and stains.
The PLJW 125 comes with a robust 900 CFM dual blower to keep your kitchen air clean and fresh. This hood ducts to the outside to ensure that all the harmful contaminants and grease leave your home quickly and efficiently.
This hood has four speeds so you can adjust them based on what you’re cooking. While cooking, don’t forget to turn on the bright LED lights. They’ll illuminate your stovetop making it easy to see recipes and your stove while in the kitchen.
You'll never get tired of cooking again once you have this amazing under cabinet hood!
Check it out right here!
What We Like
- Durable 430 stainless steel
- Powerful 900 CFM, four-speed dual blower
- Sleek stainless steel push buttons
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters
- Bright LED lights
What We Don't
- Not built for outdoor use
- Cannot convert to recirculating
- Only available in 30” and 36”
PLJW 117
Say goodbye to the unsightly smoke and fumes in your kitchen with this modern, sleek range hood. Featuring dishwasher-safe baffle filters, you'll never have to scrub burnt grease again. The 900 CFM dual blowers provide powerful ventilation without much noise. This allows you to enjoy socializing with your guests while the hood is running!
The PLJW 117 features a sleek black LCD touch panel where you can control the lights and the blower with ease. Just toggle between four blower speeds to find the setting that works best for you! Also turn on the bright LED lights, which are especially helpful in the evenings.
The PLJW 117 is one of the most powerful under cabinet range hoods on the market. Check it out here.
What We Like
- Dual 900 CFM blower with four speeds
- Bright LED lights
- Black LCD touch panel that’s easy to use
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Sleek 430 stainless steel finish
What We Don't
- Can’t convert to recirculating
- Not ideal for outdoor kitchens
Top 4 Under Cabinet Range Hoods Compared
| Model | CFM | Available Sizes | Sones | Can it be ductless? | For outdoor use? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLJW 185 | 600 | 30”, 36” | 5 | Yes | No |
| PLJW 121 | 900 | 30”, 36”, 42”, 48” | 7 | No | No |
| PLJW 125 | 900 | 30”, 36” | 7 | No | No |
| PLJW 117 | 900 | 30”, 36”, 42”, 48” | 7 | No | No |
PLFI 750
Our PLFI 750 has everything you need to keep your kitchen clean and fresh. It’s equipped with efficient stainless steel baffle filters that capture grease with ease. This island range hood comes with a 900 CFM single or 1100 CFM dual blower to vent the heavy smoke and cooking exhaust to the outside. With this much power, you’ll rarely need to use the max speed. Luckily, you can easily adjust the blower speed to six, yes six, different settings! You can also turn on the LED lights at the push of a button.
This island mount range hood has a unique rectangular design and a low profile 3.2 inch height.
The PLFI 750 has it all! Learn more about it and purchase yours below!
What We Like
- Versatile six-speed blower
- Powerful 900 single blower or 1100 CFM dual blower
- Modern rectangular design
- Sleek stainless steel push buttons
- Dishwasher safe baffle filters
- Bright LED lights that last thousands of hours
- Sleek 430 stainless steel finish
What We Don't
- Cannot convert to recirculating
- Not for use outdoors
Flush Mount Island Pro Range Hood
The Flush Mount Island Pro Range Hood is a modern hood that vents heavy smoke and strong cooking odors from your kitchen. It mounts flush with your ceiling to make your kitchen feel more open. This hood is manufactured with a durable stainless steel finish so it will last for years to come. Also, it’s easy to clean thanks to dishwasher-safe mesh filters. They capture grease with great efficiency keeping your kitchen air clean and fresh.
Check out more of its great features below.
What We Like
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Powerful 1200 CFM four-speed dual blower
- Easy-to-use stainless steel push buttons
- Mounts inside your ceiling
- Bright LED lights
- Durable 430 stainless steel
What We Don’t
- Only available in 42”
- For indoor use only
- May require a contractor to install
PLFI 755
The PLFI 755 island range hood might look familiar. It’s quite similar to our PLFI 750, besides the control panel. If you prefer a sleek black LCD touch panel over stainless steel push buttons, this hood is the one for you.
It runs at 900 or 1100 CFM depending on the size, which is more than enough to clear all the pesky odors and grease from your kitchen. With six different blower speeds, this vent hood can adapt to nearly any cooking style. The bright LED lights make cooking easy. Not to mention that you don’t need to spend much time cleaning up, since the baffle filters are dishwasher safe. How convenient!
Don’t wait to give your kitchen a modern upgrade. Check out our PLFI 755 at the button below.
What We Like
- High-powered 900 or 1100 CFM blower options
- Modern rectangular design
- Dishwasher safe stainless steel baffle filters
- Bright, energy-efficient LED lights
- Easy-to-use push button control panel
- Six speed blower
- Durable 430 stainless steel
What We Don't
- Only comes as ducted
- Not recommended for outdoor use
PLFI 544
Are you tired of breathing in all the smoke in your kitchen? The PLFI 544 island mount range hood can solve that problem! This glass range hood features a powerful 600 CFM blower to keep your kitchen air clean and fresh. The best part? It runs at an incredibly quiet 4.5 sones at max speed! The blower has four speeds which you can easily adjust using the sleek backlit push buttons.
Every time you cook, don’t forget to turn on the bright LED lights. They’re a huge help while you cook – no more squinting to see recipes or read food labels! Once you’re done cooking, just put the mesh filters in the dishwasher. It’s that easy.
The PLFI 544 streamlines your cooking experience. It’ll keep your indoor air clean for years to come.
Check out this island hood by clicking on the button below.
What We Like
- Unique glass front design
- Powerful 600 CFM dual blower
- Dishwasher safe mesh filters
- Backlit push button control panel
- Beautiful 430 stainless steel
- Bright LED lights
- Can convert to ductless
- Ultra-quiet 4.5 sones
What We Don't
- Not ideal for heavy constant frying, grilling, or high heat cooking
PLFI 520
The PLFI 520 island range hood is the perfect companion for your island range. It features a 600 CFM single blower. At 42” and 48”, you get nearly double that power, thanks to an 1100 CFM dual blower. These hoods include a versatile six-speed touch panel with LED display that has an easy-to-read interface. It's also got energy efficient LED lights which are especially convenient in the evenings. High-quality 430 stainless steel ensures your hood will stay in great condition for years to come. There’s nothing stopping you from enjoying this great hood! Buy it today!
What We Like
- Durable 430 stainless steel
- Versatile six-speed blower
- Powerful 600 single or 1100 CFM dual blower
- Easy-to-use push buttons with LED display
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel mesh filters
- Ultra-quiet 5.3 sones
What We Don't
- Cannot convert to ductless
- Not usable in outdoor kitchens
Top 4 Island Range Hoods Compared
| Model | CFM | Available Sizes | Sones | Can it be ductless? | For outdoor use? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLFI 750 | 900, 1100 | 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 7.8 | No | No |
| PLFI 755 | 900, 1100 | 30”, 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 7.5 | No | No |
| PLFI 544 | 600 | 30”, 36”, 42” | 4.5 | Yes | No |
| PLFI 520 | 600, 1100 | 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, 48” | 5.3 | No | No |
Top 4 Range Hood Inserts
Hurricane Insert
Our Hurricane insert lives up to its name. This hood boasts a 600 CFM single blower that moves air with ease. It can also come with a 1200 CFM dual blower for twice the power! But you don’t have to use the hood on max speed all the time if you don’t need it. Just toggle between the four speeds using the stainless steel push buttons. There, you can also adjust the Halogen lights. They dim, so you can change the setting exactly to your liking!
If that wasn’t enough, the Hurricane includes dishwasher-safe baffle filters. They’re a lifesaver when you’re too busy getting everything ready for dinner.
Take a closer look at our Hurricane insert right here.
What We Like
- Single 600 CFM or dual 1200 CFM blower
- Modern push button control panel
- Dimmable halogen lights
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Durable 430 SS finish
What We Don't
- Cannot convert to ductless
- Not ideal for outdoor use
PLJL INS
Cooking in your kitchen can get a little steamy sometimes but the PLJL insert can take care of that. At max speed, the 900 CFM single blower will clear all the smoke and odors out of your home in minutes. Its stainless steel baffle filters are incredibly efficient at trapping grease and oils. As an added bonus, it produces just seven sones so the noise isn’t loud at all!
With a four speed control panel, you’ll have a setting for whatever you want to cook. Just be sure to turn on the LED lights! Trust us – it’s so nice being able to see what you’re doing in the kitchen.
The PLJL range hood insert is the perfect new addition to your kitchen. Buy yours today at this button below.
What We Like
- Robust 900 CFM or 1200 CFM blower options
- Modern stainless steel push button controls
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Bright LED lights
- High-quality 430 stainless steel
What We Don't
- Can’t convert to ductless
- Not built for outdoor use
ProVL
The ProVL range hood insert is a must-have if you want to add a luxurious, modern touch to your kitchen. This insert is one of the most powerful on the market. You can choose between a 1200 CFM local blower, 1300 CFM inline blower or an incredibly powerful 1700 CFM local blower. Any of these three options are great, but the inline blower will be the quietest. Every blower is variable speed; just turn the knob to adjust it, that’s it!
You can also use the knobs to adjust the dimmable Halogen lights. These are really handy if you cook often in the evenings, or just need to see what you’re doing. The dishwasher-safe baffle filters are a nice finishing touch to this insert. Instead of spending time scrubbing tough grease, let your dishwasher do the work for you.
You’re sure to enjoy clean, fresh air with this powerful insert. Buy yours right here!
What We Like
- Three powerful blower options: 1200 CFM local, 1300 CFM inline, and 1700 CFM local
- Variable speed blower
- Dimmable halogen lights
- Adjustable rheostat knobs for blower speed and lights
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Durable 430 SS finish
What We Don't
- Cannot be converted to ductless
- Not recommended for outdoor use
PLFL 832
Cook comfortably with the PLFL 832 ducted range hood insert. It features a powerful 1000 CFM blower that removes pesky grease and grime produced from cooking. You’ll enjoy improved air quality for years to come. The push button control panel allows you to adjust the blower speed to six different settings for ultimate flexibility. The panel is hidden under the front of the hood giving this insert a sleek minimalist look. You can toggle on the bright LED lights to improve your cooking experience too. The PLFL 832 has it all!
Buy this insert right here.
What We Like
- Powerful 1000 CFM blower
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Versatile six speed blower
- Bright LED lights
- Sleek push button control panel with digital display
What We Don't
- Not for outdoor use
- Cannot be ductless or recirculating
Top 4 Range Hood Inserts Compared
| Model | CFM | Available Sizes | Sones | Can it be ductless? | For outdoor use? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Insert | 600, 1200 | 28”, 34”, 40”, 46”, 52”, 58” | 6 | No | No |
| PLJL INS | 900, 1200 | 28”, 34”, 40”, 46” | 6 | No | No |
| ProVL | 1200, 1300, 1700 | 28”, 34”, 40”, 46”, 52”, 58” | 7 | No | No |
| PLFL 832 | 1000 | 28”, 34”, 40”, 46”, 52”, 58” | 5 | No | No |
Top 4 Wall Mount Range Hoods
PLFW 520
The PLFW 520 is the perfect range hood for your new kitchen. It features an impressive four-speed 600 CFM blower that keeps heavy smoke and harmful contaminants out of your cooking space. Not only that, but it’s also easy to use. The backlit push buttons are easily accessible on the front of the hood. So you can cycle through the fan speeds and lights at the push of a button! Our 520 model includes bright LED lights to make sure you can see clearly in the kitchen. They illuminate your entire range and last for years. Topping it all off, this hood comes with dishwasher-safe baffle filters. Just remove them from your hood, toss them in the dishwasher, and you’re done.
Does this professional wall hood sound right for you? Take a closer look at the PLFW 520 at the button below.
What We Like
- Impressive 600 CFM single blower
- Can be recirculating or ductless
- Sleek backlit push buttons
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Six-speed blower
- Beautiful 430 SS finish
What We Don't
- Not ideal for constant heavy frying or grilling
- Only for indoor use
PLFW 129E
The PLFW 129E is one of our most popular wall range hoods thanks to its sleek design and incredible power. It features an eye-catching black LCD touch panel that’s easy to use. On the panel you can adjust the blower to four different speed settings. They range from a super quiet 225 CFM to an amazing 900 CFM! You can also turn on the bright LED lights to help you stay efficient in the kitchen.
This wall mounted range hood includes dishwasher-safe baffle filters that make cleaning a non-issue. No need to worry about scrubbing away tough grease. Just let your dishwasher do the work for you.
Buy your 129E wall mount range hood right here!
What We Like
- Modern black LCD touch panel
- Amazing 900 CFM single blower
- Bright LED lights
- Durable 430 stainless steel
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters
What We Don't
- Only available as a ducted hood
- Not recommended in outdoor kitchens
ProSW
Are you tired of dealing with heavy smoke, grease stains all over your cabinets and countertops, and food smells lingering for days? The ProSW ducted range hood can solve all that. Before you even turn the hood on, you might notice the sleek, shiny 430 stainless steel finish. This durable finish will protect the hood for years. You can’t miss the black LCD touch panel either. It’s easy to use and it’ll catch the attention of your friends and family.
Turn the hood on and you’ll be amazed by its tremendous power. The 900 CFM blower will send any smoke, grease, and cooking odors right out of your kitchen. At sizes 36” and above, you’ll get twice that power! The efficient stainless steel baffle filters catch all the grease and oils produced from your cooking, so you can enjoy clean indoor air.
Buy a new ProS ducted range hood at the button below.
What We Like
- Sleek 430 stainless steel finish
- Powerful 900 single or 1800 CFM dual blower
- Modern black LCD touch panel
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Energy-efficient LED lights
What We Don't
- Not available as ductless or recirculating
- Not recommended for outdoor use
PLFW 129J
The PLFW 129J is a modern wall mount range hood for your home. Like our 129E model, it features a 900 CFM blower that removes contaminants from your kitchen air and cooking surface in minutes. This four-speed blower can be easily adjusted using the backlit push buttons in the front of the hood. The control panel features a digital display so you can see the blower speed as well.
The 129J has bright LED lights so you can see clearly while cooking. Once you’re done in the kitchen, remove the filters and place them in your dishwasher. After one cycle they’ll be good as new!
Buy your PLFW 129J right here!
What We Like
- Robust 900 CFM single blower
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Bright, energy-efficient LED lights
- Sleek stainless steel push button controls
- Brushed 430 SS finish
What We Don't
- Cannot convert to recirculating
- Not recommended for outdoor kitchens
Top 4 Wall Mount Range Hoods Compared
| Model | CFM | Available Sizes | Sones | Can it be ductless? | For outdoor use? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLFW 520 | 600 | 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, 48” | 4.5 | Yes | No |
| PLFW 129E | 900 | 30”, 36” | 5 | No | No |
| ProSW | 900, 1800 | 30”, 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 7 | No | No |
| PLFW 129J | 900 | 30”, 36” | 5 | No | No |
Top 4 Outdoor Range Hoods
PLJW 109 304 SS
The PLJW 109 304 SS is a modern range hood that’s perfect over your outdoor grill. It features a powerful 1000 CFM blower that removes heavy smoke from your outdoor cooking area. For the most frequent cooks, our 42” and above models come with a whopping 2000 CFM dual blower. The blower is easily adjustable using the sleek stainless steel push buttons. There you can also control the bright LED lights. With these, you can grill anytime, day or night!
This under cabinet and wall hood was built for outdoor use. With an outdoor-rated 304 SS finish and industrial-grade baffle filters, your patio will be grease-free.
Check out more details and photos of our PLJW 109 304 SS here.
What We Like
- Powerful 1000 CFM single blower
- Outdoor-rated 304 SS finish
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Bright LED lights
- Can rotate the blower to the back
What We Don't
- Not available in 30” or 36”
PLJW 104 304 SS
Start your summer right by upgrading your outdoor kitchen with the modern PLJW 104 304 SS. It’s built with a stain-resistant and corrosion-resistant stainless steel finish that handles the harsh elements. With an impressive 1200 CFM, this hood won’t have any problem removing smoke and grease produced from your grill.
The blower features four speeds, so you’ll have amazing flexibility while cooking. You can also cook late at night, thanks to the dimmable Halogen lights! They make cooking so much easier!
Enjoy time with your friends and family on the outdoor patio thanks to the powerful PLJW 104 range hood.
Purchase this hood from Proline here.
What We Like
- Stain-resistant outdoor-rated stainless steel
- Powerful 1200 CFM blower
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Dimmable halogen lights
- Versatile four-speed blower
What We Don't
- Not available in 30"
PLJI 102 304 SS
Is your grill on an island in your outdoor kitchen? Then you’ll love our PLJI 102 304 SS range hood! It’s a beautiful centerpiece for your outdoor kitchen. This hood is made of 304 stainless steel, so it'll be rust-free and durable for years to come.
And since you can toss the filters in your dishwasher, it’s really easy to keep this hood clean. Oh yeah, we didn't forget about those LED lights either. They'll help brighten up your little corner of paradise when you're cooking...just don't stare at them too long!
The finishing touch to this hood is the 1200 CFM dual blower. It’ll remove pesky cooking smells, contaminants, and smoke that you couldn’t seem to get rid of before. And the best part? It’s got four speeds. Toggle between them using the black LCD touch panel in the front of the hood.
So, what do you think? Want to give our PLJI 102 304 SS a try? Check it out!
What We Like
- 1200 CFM dual blower guaranteed to clean your air
- Energy-efficient LED lights
- Outdoor-rated stainless steel finish
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
- Black LCD touch panel
What We Don't
- Not available in 30”
PLJI 103 304 SS
If the PLJI 102 isn’t your style, you’re in luck! Our PLJI 103 304 SS is a beautiful, minimalist outdoor hood. Instead of the black LCD touch panel, it features stainless steel push buttons. This outdoor hood includes a robust 1200 CFM dual blower to keep cooking odors and grease out of your patio area. You can adjust the speed to four different settings. This allows you to cook a wide variety of food while keeping your air clean! Remember to turn on the LED lights, too. They’re really convenient in the evenings when it’s difficult to see in the kitchen. These energy-efficient lights will brighten your range for years to come.
What We Like
- Sleek black LCD touch panel
- Powerful 1200 CFM dual blower
- Outdoor-rated 304 SS
- Four speed blower
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters
What We Don't
- Not available in 30”
Top 4 Outdoor Range Hoods Compared
| Model | CFM | Available Sizes | Sones | Can it be ductless? | For outdoor use? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLJW 109 304 SS | 1000, 2000 | 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 5, 7 | Some models | Yes |
| PLJW 104 304 SS | 1200 | 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 6 | No | Yes |
| PLJW 102 304 SS | 1200 | 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 6 | No | Yes |
| PLJI 103 304 SS | 1200 | 36”, 42”, 48”, 54”, 60” | 6 | No | Yes |
Types of Range Hoods
That concludes our complete list of 20 of the best range hoods on the market. If you're still unsure about which hood is right for you, learn more about range hoods below.
We'll go over the different types of hoods, benefits of hoods, a buyer's guide, and some FAQ.
Wall Range Hoods
A wall range hood is mounted on the wall. These hoods come with chimneys that hide your ductwork. Wall hoods can be ducted or ductless.
Under Cabinet Range Hoods
An under cabinet range hood mounts under a cabinet. It’s one of the most popular types of range hoods today. These hoods often replace OTR microwaves to improve ventilation in your home.
Island Range Hoods
Island range hoods mount over your kitchen island. They are a great option if you have an island range. Island mount hoods work well in open kitchens or medium-sized kitchens with high ceilings.
Range Hood Inserts
A range hood insert mounts into your custom cabinetry. They are the most affordable option for range hoods, and they work well in any type of kitchen. The nice thing about inserts is that you can design your custom hood or cabinetry however you like. The design possibilities are endless.
Outdoor Range Hoods
An outdoor range hood, as the name suggests, mounts over your outdoor grill. These hoods are more powerful than indoor hoods. They are built with special materials that can handle the high heat of your grill and the elements.
Range Hood Buyer’s Guide
If you’re new to range hood shopping, here are a few things to consider before making your purchase.
You might be wondering what is most important and what’s least important. The answer is, well, it’s different for everyone. For example, if you don’t have any DIY experience, ease of installation might be at the top of your list. If you do a ton of Asian cooking, CFM might be your most important feature.
We find that the type of ducting, cubic feet per minute, size, and ease of installation are the four most important features of a hood. Beyond that, the rest is up to your personal preference.
Ducted vs. Ductless
Always purchase a ducted range hood if you have the right setup. It removes more grease, smoke, and contaminants than a ductless hood. Most ductless hoods just won’t have the power you need. On top of that, it doesn’t require as much maintenance because you don’t have to replace filters.
CFM
CFM measures how much air your range hood moves in one minute. Most homeowners are more than happy with 600 CFM. But if you do a lot of cooking or like frying and grilling, you may want 900 CFM or more. For outdoor grills, we recommend at least 1200 CFM.
To calculate CFM for gas stoves, take the total BTUs and divide by 100.
For electric stoves, take the width of your stove, and multiply it by 10.
For some real life examples, check out this article.
Size
The right size range hood is key to keeping your indoor air clean and fresh. A larger hood means more coverage, and more coverage means more smoke and contaminants are sucked out of your home.
To get the most out of your hood, we recommend sizing it six inches larger than your cooktop. So if your range is 36”, use a 42” hood. If you don’t have the space to follow this rule, you should be fine buying a hood the same size as your cooktop.
For outdoor kitchens, we recommend buying a hood 12 inches larger than your cooktop. Outdoor grills produce a lot of smoke and heat, so you don’t want to try and take a shortcut with this rule.
Learn more about range hood size in this complete guide.
Ease of Installation
Installing appliances can be a pain, especially if you don’t have previous experience. But we have several different installation articles on our blog to make installation a breeze.
Or if you don’t want to install the hood, you can learn all about how to find a contractor to do it for you.
Blower Options
When it comes to range hood blowers, you have three options, a local blower, inline/remote blower, and external blower. A local blower sits inside the range hood, while an inline blower sits inside the ductwork. Inline blowers are much quieter than local blowers.
An external blower sits outside your house or on the roof. While this virtually eliminates the noise, it can be expensive and time consuming to install and maintain. We recommend going with local or inline blowers to save you the hassle.
Learn more about the differences between range hood blowers here.
Noise Level
You want to be comfortable cooking in the kitchen. That might involve making sure the noise is down. Then you can talk with your friends and family while the hood is running. Range hoods are measured in sones. Most professional hoods produce around 7 to 9 sones at max speed. This is about equivalent to the noise of light traffic.
The noise level of your hood depends on its quality and the speed setting. Some cheaper hoods may be less powerful but produce more noise than more efficient hoods.
Even if you don’t need a lot of power, we recommend buying a higher-CFM hood. It’ll have a more efficient motor. So you can use it almost exclusively at lower speeds and enjoy the quiet.
Material
The material of your hood is most important if you’re looking for an outdoor hood. It needs to have some extra resistance to corrosion, weather, stains, and heat to stay in great condition for years.
Proline’s outdoor hoods come with 304 stainless steel, while our indoor hoods are made with 430 stainless steel. Learn more about the difference between them here.
Design
Three big components of range hood design are the filters, control panel, and the shape of the hood. These are pretty much up to personal preference, but you have quite a few different options. We’ll go over them below.
Filters
The most common types of filters are stainless steel baffle, stainless steel mesh, and charcoal.
Baffle filters are the most efficient, followed by mesh filters. Both are reliable for capturing grease. You won’t really have an option to choose between different types. Instead, you’ll have to choose a hood that comes with one or the other.
Ductless hoods use charcoal filters. They sit inside the range hood blower to catch grease and contaminants as they pass through.
Control Panel
Range hoods have a wide variety of control panels. The most popular is stainless steel push buttons. Black LCD touch panels are also a modern option for today’s hoods. Some have dial knobs, but you won’t see that too often. The choice is yours!
Shape of the Hood
The three most popular range hood designs are tapered hoods, glass hoods, and rectangular hoods. Here are a few pictures of what they look like. Which one do you like best?
Benefits of a Range Hood
At first glance, investing in a range hood might seem risky. But it’s a long-term investment that can last you decades! It’s got a host of other benefits too, which we’ll go over here.
Removes smoke, cooking exhaust, and odors from your home
When was the last time your smoke alarm went off? If you remember the day, you probably need a professional range hood. It’ll get all of that pesky cooking exhaust and smoke out of your kitchen. No more smelling last night’s dinner! Doesn’t that sound nice?
Makes it easier to see what you’re doing in the kitchen
Good lighting is important to keep you on task in the kitchen. The best range hoods are equipped with bright lights that illuminate your whole range. LEDs in particular will last thousands of hours, so you don’t have to worry about replacing them!
Adds value to your home and catches the attention of your guests
A range hood is eye candy in your kitchen. Island hoods in particular can be an elegant statement piece of not just your kitchen, but your home. Invite friends and family over and they won’t stop showering you with compliments!
If you ever put your home on the market, your range hood will be a great selling point for any avid cooks out there!
Improves your indoor air quality, keeping you and your family safe
Harmful contaminants like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and formaldehyde can build up quickly in a poorly ventilated home.
Too much exposure to these compounds and you may get sick; they can even be fatal.
But a range hood will keep you and your family healthy. The EPA found that indoor air is about 2-5x more polluted than outdoor air, so it’s incredibly important that it stays clean.
You only need one!
If you find a high-quality range hood that satisfies your needs, you’ll only need one! Professional hoods can last 10 years or more. So while it might seem like a lot of money to spend, it’s a long term investment. Hopefully you’ll be using the same hood years later.
Those were some of the main benefits of range hoods. For a complete list, check out this article!
28 Frequently Asked Questions
Venting and Installation
Do I need makeup air for my range hood?
In most cases, you won’t need make up air for your range hood. But some local building codes require makeup air. Check with your landlord or local authorities to determine if you need it in your kitchen.
You might also consider make up air if you install a 1200+ CFM hood in a small kitchen. The air that the hood removes likely won’t be replaced fast enough; make up air will help replace it.
For more information on make up air and why you might need it, check out this article.
Should my vent hood duct be insulated?
It’s not required to insulate your vent hood duct. But it can help prevent condensation and slightly improve the efficiency of your range hood. For more details, check out this complete guide.
Can a range hood be vented through the wall?
Yes, wall range hoods, inserts, under cabinet hoods, and outdoor hoods can all be vented through the wall. When venting your hood, choose the shortest path possible with the least obstacles.
To learn more about how to vent a hood through the wall, take a look at our complete guide.
Can a range hood be vented through the ceiling?
Yes, range hoods can be vented through the ceiling. But you might choose to vent yours through the wall to make installation easier. Island hoods must be vented through the ceiling; they are the only hood that cannot vent horizontally through a wall.
Check out our step-by-step guide on how to vent your hood through the ceiling right here.
Can I put my range hood in front of a window?
Yes, it is safe to put a range hood in front of a window. Some building codes might require that you install the hood a few feet away. So be sure to check your local regulations. Generally, your hood will be more difficult to clean and it may obstruct your view to the outside. So it’s not recommended to install it in front of a window.
Check out more information at this link if you’re still deciding.
What duct size do I need for my range hood?
We recommend the following minimum duct sizes for your hood:
- 4 inches for 400 CFM
- 6 inches for 600 CFM
- 8 inches for 900 CFM
- 10 inches for 1200+ CFM
We explain duct size in great detail here if you’d like to learn more.
How high do I mount my range hood?
Mount your indoor range hood between 28” and 36” above the cooktop. Mount outdoor hoods between 36” and 42” above the cooktop. The extra distance will help capture the heavy heat and smoke produced from your outdoor grill. It’ll also help protect the hood from damage.
Take a look at our complete range hood mounting height guide for more info.
Who can I hire to install a hood?
Your best bet is to hire a licensed kitchen renovation contractor to install your hood. Most general contractors will be able to install hoods as well. If you don’t want to spend the money, you can check out installation videos on YouTube to learn how to install it yourself.
Check out our article ‘Who can I hire to install a hood?’ to learn more. Or if you’re looking for a contractor, follow this step by step guide.
Is a kitchen exhaust fan required by code?
Typically, range hoods are not required by code in residential areas. If you live in an apartment your landlord may require one. Restaurants, factories, and warehouses that produce harmful chemicals require hoods for everyone’s health and safety.
Learn more about range hood code requirements in this article.
Before Purchase
How do I choose a range hood?
Do I really need a range hood?
We recommend buying a range hood so you can keep your indoor air clean and fresh. You won’t need to worry about pesky grease stains on your countertops, cabinets, walls, and ceiling. Not to mention, a hood is a great conversation starter and it adds value to your home.
It’s a modern appliance that’s gaining popularity today in homes around the world.
We don’t recommend downdraft hoods because they are not as efficient as over the range hoods.
To learn more about why you need a range hood in your home, take a look at this post.
What is the best CFM for a range hood?
The best CFM for a range hood depends on your cooking style and kitchen design. For indoor kitchens, we recommend a minimum of 600 CFM. For outdoor kitchens, buy a hood with at least 1200 CFM for the best results. To learn more about choosing the right CFM for your hood, click here.
What size range hood do I need?
The size of your range hood depends on two things: the size of your range and the location of your kitchen. For indoor kitchens, size your hood six inches larger than your range. It should extend past the stove top three inches on each side. For outdoor kitchens, size your hood 12 inches larger than your range. This means it will extend past the cooktop six inches on each side.
You can go with an even larger hood, but we don’t recommend sizing it smaller than the above requirements. You want to get the maximum coverage over your cooktop so all the smoke and cooking exhaust makes it to the outside.
To learn more about range hood size, take a look at our complete guide.
What is a convertible range hood?
A convertible range hood is a ducted hood that can also be ductless. These hoods typically come with a recirculating kit that recirculates your kitchen air, instead of sending it outside your home. We explain convertible hoods in more detail right here.
Do I need a vent for an electric stove?
Yes, you need a vent for an electric stove. We recommend at least 600 CFM to keep smoke and harmful contaminants out of your home. For more information, take a look at our in-depth article.
Do ductless hoods work?
Ductless hoods work, but not as efficiently as ducted hoods. They move your kitchen air through charcoal filters, which catch some contaminants and neutralize some odors. But the air recirculates back into your home; it never leaves your kitchen. We have a definitive guide on ductless hoods if you want to learn more.
Is higher CFM better for my range hood?
Yes, we recommend purchasing more CFM than you’ll need, whether you cook rarely or every day. This ensures that you’ll always have enough cubic feet per minute to vent heavy smoke and grease from your kitchen. With a higher CFM hood, you’ll always have the option to do more cooking or branch out with more frying and grilling.
It also gives you the option to run the hood on lower speeds. This keeps the motor in great condition for longer. So you’ll get a lot of mileage out of your hood.
If you do Asian cooking or frying, we recommend about 900 CFM. Learn more here.
Do range hoods have to be vented outside?
It’s not required to vent your hood to the outside. You can also buy a ductless range hood, which recirculates your kitchen air. But, for most people, ductless hoods don’t have enough power to vent all the cooking exhaust to the outside. Your most reliable option is to install a ducted hood, if possible. That being said, a ductless range hood is still better than no range hood.
Which is better: ducted or ductless range hood?
Ducted range hoods are much more efficient at removing smoke, contaminants, and strong cooking odors from your kitchen. They are your best option if you have the room for ductwork and your building codes allow it.
Best Range Hood Questions
What is the best range hood for a gas stove?
The PLJW 104 is one of the best range hoods for gas stoves. It features a powerful 1200 CFM dual blower which has no problem venting out the harmful contaminants produced by your gas stove.
Take a look at a few other great range hood options here. The list includes wall hoods, under cabinet hoods, and island hoods for your home.
What is the best range hood?
The best range hood is the PLJW 185 under cabinet hood. It accommodates most homeowners with a powerful 600 CFM blower. It also features easy-to-use stainless steel push buttons where you can adjust the blower speed to four different settings. The lights are LED so your stovetop will be bright for years to come.
This sleek hood also features stainless steel baffle filters that capture grease with incredible ease! It’s also versatile; you can convert it to ductless if that setup is right for you.
Does this hood check all your boxes? If so, read our complete review of our PLJW 185.
What is the best budget range hood?
The PLFW 520 is the best budget range hood on the market. This wall hood features a robust 600 CFM blower that toggles between four speeds. It’s incredibly reliable for the average homeowner, and you can even do some Asian cooking too. The push buttons are easily accessible in the front of the hood. Better yet, you’ve got bright LED lights that make cooking a breeze.
Which range hood filter is best?
Stainless steel baffle filters are the most efficient at capturing grease and grime produced from your cooking. A close second are stainless steel mesh filters. You may find some range hoods with aluminum filters but these are not very durable. Learn more about the different types of filters here.
Who makes the quietest range hood?
Proline’s 544 and 520 series feature some of the quietest range hoods on the market. At max power they run at just four to five sones on average. This is super quiet compared to most hoods which produce between seven and nine sones.
You can also toggle to the lower speeds for whisper-quiet operation under four sones!
If you’d like to learn more about how to make your range hood quiet, check out this article.
What is the best range hood for Asian cooking?
The best range hood for Asian cooking is a 900+ CFM hood with baffle filters that ducts to the outside. We have a wide variety of hoods that meet these requirements – take a look!
Cost
Are expensive range hoods worth it?
Professional range hoods may cost anywhere from $500 to $3000 depending on the size and materials used. A range hood is a long term investment that lasts 10+ years. It’ll stay in great condition and keep your kitchen air clean and fresh.
While it might seem expensive now, five years down the road, you will not regret the purchase, especially if you cook often.
Why are range hoods so expensive?
You can find range hoods at big box stores for under $100, but they are made with cheap materials. They won’t last long in your home. A range hood is something you may only purchase once or twice in your life. It’s built to last, which is why the price tag on some range hoods may seem high.
How much should I spend on a range hood?
If you don’t cook too often, a $500 under cabinet range hood may be a great fit. Otherwise you might look for more powerful hoods that range from $1,000 to $2,000. The most powerful outdoor hoods can cost more, but it’s a worthwhile investment if you cook a lot.
When buying a range hood, you may have to factor in the cost of installation. Learn more about installation costs here.
References
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/americas-range-hood-market-size-130000253.html
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