How to choose the best cooker hood?
Cooker hoods typically consist of a canopy or hood structure that houses a fan or blower, filters, and control mechanisms. The canopy is positioned directly above the cooking surface to capture and contain the steam, grease, smoke, and odors that rise from the cooking process. You can buy these types of hoods from brands like
Bosch,
Cata,
Teka,
Edesa, and
Siemens.
Choosing the right
cooker hood for your kitchen involves considering various factors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Size and coverage: Consider the size of your range and select an
exhaust hood that matches or slightly exceeds the width of the cooking surface. The
hood should adequately cover the entire cooking area to effectively capture and remove cooking odors, grease, and smoke.
Extraction power: Look for a
cooker hood with sufficient extraction power, measured in cubic feet per minute CFM or meters cubed per hour m³/h. The extraction power should be suitable for your cooking habits and the size of your kitchen. As a general guideline, a larger kitchen or one with heavy cooking demands may require a higher CFM rating.
Ducted or ductless: Decide whether you prefer a ducted or ductless
cooker hood. A ducted hood extracts air through a duct system, venting it outside your home. It is generally more effective at removing odors and smoke. Ductless hoods, on the other hand, use filters to trap grease and odor particles before recirculating the air back into the kitchen. Ductless hoods are easier to install but may not be as efficient as ducted hoods.
Noise level: Consider the noise level of the
exhaust hood, especially if you have an open concept kitchen or prefer a quieter cooking environment.
Style and design: Choose a
range hood that complements the aesthetics of your kitchen.
Hoods come in various designs, including wall mounted, under cabinet, island, or integrated options. Consider the materials, finishes, and overall style that aligns with your kitchen´s look and feel.
Controls and features: Evaluate the controls and features offered by the
cooker hood. Look for user friendly controls, adjustable fan speeds, lighting options, and additional features such as auto shutoff timers, filter indicators, and dishwasher safe filters for easy maintenance.
Energy efficiency: Opt for an energy efficient
range hood that meets or exceeds energy efficiency standards. Look for models with LED lighting and energy saving options to reduce electricity consumption.
Budget: Determine your budget range and look for
cooker hoods that offer a balance between your desired features, quality, and price.