Rangehood Ducting Guide: What are the Options?
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Time to read 5 min
Introduction
A well-ventilated kitchen is the heart of every New Zealand home, keeping cooking smells, smoke, and moisture at bay. One of the most important decisions when designing or upgrading your kitchen is selecting the right rangehood ducting. At Folders, we offer a wide range of ducting solutions to fit every kitchen setup and budget. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the different rangehood ducting options and help you choose the best fit for your NZ home.
Rangehood ducting plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy kitchen environment. It helps remove airborne grease, odours, and heat, improving air quality and keeping your kitchen clean. Whether you’re building a new kitchen or upgrading an existing one, understanding your ducting options can make a big difference in performance and efficiency.
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Rangehood Ducting Options
1. Rigid Ducting
Rigid rangehood ducting is made from solid metal, typically aluminium or galvanised steel. It offers the best airflow and is highly durable, making it the preferred choice for most homeowners.
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Pros:
Superior airflow efficiency
Long-lasting and durable
Minimal maintenance required -
Cons:
More difficult to install
Higher upfront cost
2. Flexible Ducting
Flexible rangehood ducting is made from lightweight materials like aluminium or plastic, making it easier to install in tight spaces.
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Pros:
Easy to install and manoeuvre
Affordable
Ideal for retrofits or tight spaces -
Cons:
Less efficient airflow compared to rigid ducting
Prone to damage and requires more frequent replacement
Rangehood Ducting and Accessories
2. Rangehood ducting Tips for NZ Homes
Consider Your Home Layout: Homes in New Zealand often have unique architectural designs. Choose rangehood ducting that fits your kitchen layout, ensuring minimal bends and the shortest route to the outside.
Check Local Building Codes: Ensure your rangehood and ducting comply with NZ building codes and regulations.
Invest in Quality Materials: High-quality rangehood ducting ensures better performance, longevity, and quieter operation. At Folders, we stock premium ducting options to meet your needs.
Professional Installation: For ducted systems, professional installation can ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
3. Non-Ducted (Recirculating) Rangehoods: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Flexible Installation: Non-ducted rangehoods are easier to install as they don’t require external venting, making them ideal for apartments and kitchens without access to outside walls.
Lower Upfront Cost: Without the need for rangehood ducting, installation is simpler and often more affordable.
Versatile Design Options: Since they don't rely on rangehood ducting, these rangehoods can be placed almost anywhere in your kitchen.
Cons:
Less Effective Odour Removal: Recirculating rangehoods filter air through charcoal filters and recirculate it back into the kitchen, which isn't as effective at removing strong odours.
Higher Maintenance: Filters need to be cleaned or replaced regularly to maintain performance.
Increased Noise Levels: The internal fans and filters tend to make recirculating rangehoods noisier compared to ducted models.
Some Rangehood Options at Folders
4. Ducted Rangehoods: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Superior Ventilation: Ducted rangehoods expel air directly outside, effectively removing cooking smells, smoke, and excess heat.
Better Air Quality: By venting outside, ducted systems prevent the recirculation of airborne grease and moisture, reducing mould and mildew risks.
Quiet Operation: Ducted models are generally quieter than non-ducted ones, as the motor doesn't have to work as hard to filter and recirculate air.
Cons:
Complex Installation: Ducted rangehoods require access to external walls or the roof, which may involve professional installation and higher upfront costs.
Limited Placement Options: The need for ducting limits where you can position your rangehood in the kitchen.
Higher Initial Cost: The cost of ducting materials and installation can add to the overall expense.
5. Whats Best, Roof or Wall Exiting Rangehood Ducting?
When deciding between roof or wall exiting for rangehood ducting, both options have their pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best option for your kitchen setup:
Roof Exiting Rangehood Ducting
Pros:
- Shorter, Direct Path: If your kitchen is centrally located, venting through the roof often provides a more direct and shorter ducting path, improving airflow efficiency.
- Better Odour & Heat Removal: Hot air naturally rises, so venting through the roof can be more effective in removing heat and cooking smells.
- Aesthetics: Roof vents are less visible from the outside of your home, preserving the exterior look, especially for modern or minimalist home designs.
Cons:
- Complex Installation: Roof rangehood ducting often requires more invasive work, including cutting through the roof and sealing to prevent leaks, which might require professional help.
- Weather Exposure: Roof vents are more exposed to rain, wind, and debris, increasing maintenance needs over time.
- Higher Costs: Installation and materials for roof exits are generally more expensive due to additional sealing and flashing requirements.
Wall Exiting Ducting
Pros:
- Easier Installation: Rangehood ducting Wall exits are generally easier and cheaper to install, especially if your kitchen is on an external wall.
- Lower Maintenance: Wall vents are easier to access for maintenance and cleaning compared to roof vents.
- Cost-Effective: Fewer materials and less complex installation make this a more budget-friendly option.
Cons:
- Longer Duct Runs: If your rangehood isn’t located near an exterior wall, the rangehood ducting may require more bends and longer runs, reducing efficiency.
- Noise: Wall vents can cause more noise due to the shorter distance between the exit point and the fan, especially if not properly insulated.
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Exterior Appearance: Wall vents can be more noticeable and may impact the aesthetics of your home’s exterior.
Which is Best for You?
- Choose Roof Exiting if your kitchen is centrally located, you want maximum efficiency, and you don’t mind the higher installation costs.
- Choose Wall Exiting if your kitchen is close to an exterior wall, you prefer easier maintenance, and want a more cost-effective option.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right rangehood ducting for your NZ home is key to creating a healthier, more comfortable kitchen environment. Whether you opt for ducted or recirculating systems, investing in quality ducting materials and proper installation will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
At Folders, we offer a wide range of rangehood ducting options suitable for any NZ home. Whether you’re looking for rigid, or flexible ducting, we have the perfect solution to enhance your kitchen’s ventilation. Visit www.folders.co.nz to explore our full range of rangehood ducting and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions on Rangehood Ducting
How long can the rangehood ducting be??
To maximise efficiency, keep ducting as short and straight as possible. The recommended maximum length is 15m; however, this should be reduced for each elbow or transition added to the system.
Do I need professional help to install my rangehood ducting?
Professional assistance may be required depending on the installation's complexity and the electrical work involved. Robinhood rangehood ducting Installation kits are reasonably straight forward to install. Always review the user manual and consult a professional if you have any doubts.
What size rangehood ducting should I use?
Your ducting size should match the rangehood’s outlet. Using ducting that is too small can decrease the rangehood’s efficiency and lead to increased noise.
Can I vent my rangehood into the roof cavity?
Venting a rangehood into the roof cavity is not recommended, as humidity and grease can build up in the attic, causing mold growth and other problems. For best results, always vent the rangehood directly to the outside.
