Vented vs Unvented Range Hoods: Know Which Is Best Before Installation

KB Electric LLC gets phone calls now and then for the installation of range hoods. As electricians, we highly recommend not trying to install one yourself, mainly because we are the experts, and know how to safely and correctly install them. That said, there are a few things you should know about which range hood to buy before we come out to install it. Let’s take a look at vented vs unvented range hoods.

What Is A Range Hood?

A range hood is a type of exhaust fan that sits above your range that sucks up airborne debris, steam, smoke, and other fumes that are produced while cooking. Some range hoods are already built into built-in microwave ovens (the type that is attached onto your cabinetry and sits above your kitchen range). Other range hoods are separate entities that are installed above your kitchen range. 

Range hoods are either vented (ducted) or unvented (ductless). They both work differently to make sure your kitchen stays clean and free from the cooking debris that can collect on your walls, ceiling, etc.

Vented vs Unvented Range Hoods

So now that you are in the market for a range hood, which one do you get? Let’s take a look at vented vs unvented range hoods to better help you with your decision.

Vented Range Hood

A vented range hood is installed with a duct system that allows the cooking debris to circulate outside of the house. This type of range hood needs to be installed strategically in a kitchen to allow for the venting to the outside of the home, making this type dependent on where your kitchen range is located.

Some homes like condos/apartments, or even regular homes with different kitchen layouts may not be able to allow for a vented range hood to be installed in the kitchen. In other cases, it may be doable to install a vented range hood, but it may cost more money if a duct system isn’t already in place near the kitchen range. 

Unvented Range Hood

Unvented, or ductless, range hoods do not need to be vented to the outside of the house. Instead, these types of range hoods remove fumes, steam, smoke, etc. by a filtration system comprised of activated carbon or charcoal. After the air has been filtered, the vent blows out clean air, recirculating it into the kitchen area. To ensure that the ductless range hood operates optimally (cleans the air well), you may need to change out the filters once or twice a year, or clean them. 

An unvented range hood is a good option for kitchens with different layouts that can’t accommodate a range hood to be vented to the outside. This type of hood is versatile in where it can be installed. They also make for a cheaper alternative if a duct system isn’t already in place.

Vented vs Unvented Range Hoods: Which Is Right For Me?

If your kitchen layout allows for the venting of your range hood outside, the vented range hood is the way to go. They are the more effective option for removing the steam and humidity from your kitchen, as well as the cooking odors, airborne debris, smoke, etc., which allows for a cleaner kitchen. If you are the type that does some heavy cooking, the vented option is the better option if doable in order to keep your walls, cabinetry, ceiling, etc. free from grease particles. 

If your kitchen range isn’t near a duct system, the cost effective option is to go with an unvented range hood. One drawback of the unvented range hood is the upkeep of cleaning/changing the filter. Another drawback would be that the unvented range hoods tend to not be as effective as the vented range hoods for removing humidity, airborne grease debris, etc., even though both types do get the job done. An unvented range hood is better than no range hood at all.

Hire KB Electric LLC For Range Hood Installation

The licensed and insured electricians at KB Electric LLC can install any type of range hood for you. Whether you want a vented range hood installed, or if you want an unvented range hood installed, our guys will make sure it is installed safely, correctly, and efficiently. We can also make recommendations based on your kitchen layout as to which would be the best range hood for you. Call us today! (267) 467-3178