The Four Rangehood Types: What's BEST for your Kitchen?
In this article, we cover:
- the different types of rangehoods
- what is the purpose of a rangehood?
- the difference between ducting vs. recirculating
- rangehood lighting
- how to tell how much rangehood power your kitchen needs
What are the different Types of Rangehoods available in New Zealand?
When it comes to choosing a rangehood, there are four main design types to consider:
Undermount rangehoods are installed above your cooktop but inside the kitchen cabinetry, making them ideal for those who want a sleek and seamless look.
Canopy rangehoods, are NZ's most popular choice of rangehood. They hang down from the ceiling, are fixed to a wall, and have no kitchen cabinetry above or around it.
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Downdraft rangehoods
Downdraft rangehoods are installed in the counter at the back of the cooktop and rise up when in operation. It is even possible to get integrated cooktops with downdraft rangehood functionality.
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Island rangehoods
Island rangehoods are designed to be installed in the middle of your kitchen island, hanging only from the ceiling. Perfect for those who want to make a statement.
Each has its own pro's and con's that you'll need to take into consideration in order to make the best decision for your kitchen.
Why do I need a Rangehood?
Without a good rangehood, moisture, oil and odours can build up in your kitchen and home, leading to stale/damp air and dirty walls. Rangehoods are designed to extract steam, grease and odours from your kitchen to keep your home healthy, clean, and smelling sweet!
Imagine the dinner party with family and friends scenario. Hours of hard work spent in the kitchen preparing and cooking, followed by hours of enjoyment around the table, and then sleeping it off. The test of a great rangehood is waking up in the morning to a kitchen that smells like none of it ever happened.
Ducted or Recirculating?
The most efficient way of extracting moisture, oil and odours from the air is by ducting the rangehood to the outside of your home through the wall, soffit or roof.
However, it either may not be possible to duct your rangehood or cost may be the limiting concern. This is when a recirculation model may be suitable. Recirculation is where the air is cleaned by way of filters (usually charcoal) before being pumped back out into the room. A much simpler install for the home DIY'er.
What about Lighting?
Rangehood lighting illuminates the cooktop to let you see what you’re doing.
Efficient LED lighting is now used in most rangehoods. However, some entry-level models use either halogen and incandescent globes; which can still be an effective lighting source, but tend to have a shorter lifespan and consume more electricity.
Should I be worried about Air Flow?
Good air flow is vital to the rangehoods performance when it comes to removing moisture, oil and odours from your home. When it comes to air flow (or extraction power) an effective rangehood should be able to replace the air in your kitchen up to 12 times per hour.
Kitchen Volume (m3) x 12 = Extraction Rate
Conclusion
Now that you know the different types of rangehoods and what factors to consider, it's time to start shopping.
- Robinhood rangehoods are our most popular,
- the new Bosch rangehoods are super quiet or,
- for the price conscious, browse our Parmco rangehoods.
If you need any assistance feel free to contact the helpful folders team. Happy shopping!