How do you cope with smell or heat while cooking in your kitchen? Do you open the windows or leave the kitchen altogether? While those may be good options, an under cabinet range hood is a better option. Let’s find out the best under cabinet range hood.
What is Under Cabinet Range Hood?
An under-cabinet range hood is simply a range hood attached under kitchen cabinets. Range hoods generally help to ventilate your kitchen by removing smells, odor, steam, or heat that emanates from your kitchen. There is duct (range hoods that vent air outside your kitchen) or ductless (range hood that cleans the air and circulates it back to your kitchen) ones, depending on your need and preference. They also come in different sizes, shapes, brands, and specifications.
Getting the perfect under cabinet range hood can be a difficult task considering the variety that exists and the numerous advertisements out there. To, therefore, aid your decision-making process, we decided to help out with the essential features to look out for in any hood as well as give you our top 10 picks of under cabinet range hood.
What to look out for in an Under Cabinet Range Hood?
Questions you might want to ask yourself before purchasing any range hood should be, how well does this fit under my cabinet? Is it easy to install? What is its speed of moving air? (It is measured in cfm, i.e., cubic feet per minute.) and how loud is it? (measured in sones)
So, with those questions at the back of your mind, let us walk you through our ten best under cabinet range hood. Shall we?
Here’s the list of our 11 Best Under Cabinet Range Hood
1. Hauslane Chef 30’ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood (check price) EDITOR’S CHOICE
2. Cosmo 5MU30 (check price) EDITOR’S CHOICE
3. Broan 403004 30 In. stainless Steel Ducted Under Cabinet Range Hood (check price) EDITOR’S CHOICE
Review of the Best Under Cabinet Range Hood
1. Broan F403604 Two-Speed Four-way Convertible Range Hood
Broan generally makes fresh products, and this might be one to keep on the look-out. These under cabinet range hood is made with stainless steel, thereby offering durability. Like its name, it is ductless, the convertible has a two-speed fan control, and its design makes it just perfect for any kitchen pattern. It offers 190 cfm airflow making it great for quick removal of bad smell and smoke. Its grease filter is no exception of excellence and ease either; it is easy to clean because it is made of aluminum, and it is dishwasher safe. This range hood comes with a damper and a 7-inch round adapter, but more importantly, it is easy to install!
What we like about it
- It produces just 6.5 sones of sound
- Dust direction is either vertical or horizontal
- Its aluminum filter and in-built damper
- It is easy to install
2. Hauslane Chef 30’ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
If you cook meals often, then this incredible hood is a fantastic choice. It is highly efficient, and that is all thanks to its vents, motors, and filters that produce 860cfm. It is 30 inches wide with energy-saving LED lights for excellent illumination. Its contemporary look adds elegance to your kitchen, and it is just perfect for any kitchen pattern. This hood is made of stainless steel for durability.
What we like about it
- A 3-way vent option with 2 to the top and one at the rear
- It possesses a six-speed fan setting for suction and noise level control
- Highly stylish
- Has stainless steel baffle filters which makes it easy to clean
3. Cosmo 5MU30
If you have been disturbed about what perfect under cabinet range hood to purchase, you might want to try out Cosmo. This range hood is 30 inches with aluminum mesh filters and a three fan speed. It is highly easy to operate with a top or back vent. This range hood is particularly great for apartments and condos not just because of its small size but also for its seamless design that complements a variety of kitchen designs. It has a multi-layer mesh filter and an energy-efficient motor. What more? The new design includes range hood, damper, vent cover, mesh filters, and mounting materials!
What we like about it
- Easy to operate
- An efficient noise control system of 250 CFM
What we don’t like about it
- Filters can only be washed with hands
4. BV 30’ Under Cabinet Range Hood
BV is 30 inches and almost the same price as Hauslane Chef 30’. It has two motors that generate 900 CFM of airflow. It is made of stainless steel, mostly like another range hood with three watts energy-saving LED lights. It is easy to clean and install.
What we like about it
- It is durable and easy to clean
- Produces 900CFM of airflow
- Has stainless steel baffle filters
- Highly modern in design
5. Hauslane Chef Range Hood30” C400
The ducted Chef range hood is 30 inches, and it perfectly revamps your kitchen. It produces 750 cfm of airflow, and it is pretty easy to control.
What we like about it
- It automatically cleans itself every 30 seconds
- Product is packaged with two by 50 w six halogen lamps
- Produces 750 CFM per airflow
- It is durable
6. Kobe Range Hood
Kobe is an all effective under cabinet range hood that is 36-inches wide. It is noiseless and packs away 700cfm of smoke or heat. Although this is not up to the 900cfm of XtremeAir series, this hood is considered one of the quietest you may find. You get stainless steel baffle filters that are detachable and easy to clean with this hood. Vented air may be exhausted from the top or at the rear, unlike many others. It is easy to operate and handle as its eco-mode function can turn on the hood automatically to remove trapped air. If efficiency, affordability, durability, and style is what you are out for, then Kobe Rangehood is your go-to.
What we like about it
- The fan is extremely quiet even at its highest speed
- Expunges 700 cfm of smoke or heat
- Has 3-level lighting with two bright LED lights
- It can automatically remove air.
7. Broan 403004 30 In. stainless Steel Ducted Under Cabinet Range Hood
This Broan fits on almost all cabinets, and it has room for horizontal and vertical installation. It is 30 inches, and it offers 160 CFM airflow to your kitchen. This brand is in various sizes and colors to give the perfect fit to your kitchen. Made of stainless steel for long-lasting service and a 2-speed fan switch to select your preferred speed option. Its LED lighting makes it more comfortable and easy to use any day.
What we like about it
- Produces 160 CFM airflow
- Installation of duct can be either horizontal or vertical
- Accepts light bulb of up to 75 watts
- It has an Aluminum filter and an in-built damper
What we don’t like about it
- There is no automatic airflow feature
8. BV Stainless Steel 30’ Under Cabinet High Airflow
A whooping 800 CFM airflow is produced in your kitchen each time this range hood works! This CFM is considerably high compared to others in the industry. It is easy to clean, install yet with high power. This BV has two high intensity LED bulbs that keep your range hood and kitchen bright to cook any moment you desire. It has a three-speed fan push button, and what’s more, is the three years warranty offered on this product!
What we like about it
- Possesses dual motors that produce 800 CFM
- Has two high intensity LED energy-saving lights
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
9. Proline Under Cabinet Range Hood
Proline wall under cabinet range hood is one of our favorite hood as it produces 600 CFM airflow moving bad smell out of your kitchen at a considerably fast pace. Its slender shape makes it a comfortable fit under any cabinet, and its design and style add great poise to your kitchen. It has a soundless motor to keep it as quiet as possible, and energy-saving LED lights bright enough to keep your range top bright. It possesses a four-speed dual blower.
What we like about it
- Produces 600 CFM
- Easy to install
- Baffle filters are made with stainless steel for easy cleaning
- It has a four-speed dual blower
10. Awoco Under Cabinet Range Hood
The Awoco under cabinet range hood is made of stainless steel as well, with a contemporary look to give your kitchen the elegance you want. This brand is an excellent combination of style, quality, and quietness. It has a brush for efficient cleaning and energy-saving LED light for bright cooking. It has a 3-minute timer delayed auto shut off, which is one of the features you don’t get everywhere
What we like about it
- Easy to clean
- Has a 3-minute timer delayed auto shut off
- Perfect for condos and small apartments
- Has a 3-year warranty
What we don’t like about it
Another good under cabinet range hood that needs to make this list is the;
11. XtremeAir Ultra Series UL 10-U36
This 36 inches range hood is quiet, has high power, and expunges up to 900cfm of smoke. You can trust this to handle heavy smoke and excessive heat in your kitchen effectively. What’s more? It is as noiseless as useful as it is!
Also, our XtremeAir Ultra series lasts really long cause they are made of stainless steel. Their filters are easy to wash, and their 2 LED light may almost light your kitchen and not just your range hood.
What we like about it
- Easy to operate.
- It has squirrel cage blowers
- This range hood comes with a ten-year warranty!
- Highly effective
What we don’t like about it
- No rear vent or exhaust for any of the Hood.
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Factors to Consider Before Getting an Under Cabinet Range Hood
As earlier mentioned, there are questions you ought to ask yourself before purchasing any under cabinet range hood. You certainly will not want equipment that’ll create more harm than good or will end up being of no use. So before any brand becomes your choice, here are some fundamental factors to consider
A. Size
The size of the range hood is paramount because it determines how well it fits under your cabinet. A misfit won’t be of great help, so you don’t want to buy one. The size of cooktops in most homes is about 30-36 inches. Most of the range hoods are within that size range. However, your under cabinet range hood should ideally protrude a few inches on each side of your cooktops to allow for excesses while cooking.
B. Shape
Also, the shape of your under cabinet range hood is just as important as the size. A circular range hood is of no use to a rectangular cooktop and vice versa!
C. Mounting type
How to mount your range hood is also a significant factor to consider, so you want to check this before purchasing one. An under cabinet range hood is best mounted 24-30 inches away from your gas cooker and 20-24 inches away from your electric stove.
D. Ease of Installation
The size, shape, and mounting type, all determine the ease of installation of your range hood. So, do a thorough check on all three from the installation manual, and you can be sure to install your under cabinet range hood in no time.
E. CFM
The efficiency of your range hood is determined by its CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), which is the airflow generated. The airflow is what ease your kitchen of its smell and heat, making this factor all important! The higher the CFM, the more effective your under cabinet range hood is.
F. Adjustable Fan Speed
The adjustable fan control helps you change the airflow within the range hood. Your CFM and adjustable fan speed both work together to reduce kitchen heat. However, using your range hood at its highest power and highest adjustable fan speed increases the noise level of your hood, which you may not like.
G. Ventilation type
Like we briefly explained earlier, your range hood does not just come in brands; it comes in various types as well. We have the Ducted or Vented, Ductless, or Non-Vented and Convertible.
- Ducted or Vented Rangehood
Ducted, it means air ducts or vents are required to take the air outside your kitchen. The pipes will run from inside your kitchen and convey the contaminated air outside. It is important to note that long ducts require a powerful range hood.
- Ductless or Non-Vented Rangehood
These from the name do not require ducts. The contaminated air is sucked in by your range hood, purified, then recirculated right there in your kitchen. You need to change the charcoal filters in this ventilation system to get the highest air purification possible.
- Convertible
With a convertible range hood, you can always change from duct to ductless any time, any moment!
H. Level of Noise ( measured in sones)
Remember, we talked about asking yourself how loud it is? You certainly don’t want your range hood blaring louder than your TV. The noise level is measured in sones, so do well to check this before purchase.
Other Important Features include;
- Heat sensor: over-heating triggers the sensor to adjust blower speed.
- Lightning: determine how much energy is conserved from your LED lighting. Also, how bright is it?
- Baffle filter material: Determine if your filter is aluminum or steel, or if it is dishwasher safe or not.
- Automatic shutoff function: this helps you delay shutoff time, thereby increasing the efficiency of your rangehood.
How do you clean your range hood?
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your range hood are as crucial as getting the best range hood. It’s not the rigor to purchase the best range hood without proper maintenance. Therefore, this segment is essential.
To clean your under cabinet range hood, you have to clean it in parts, such as;
- Surface: Regularly clean the surface using hot water and soap, and a soft cloth will do a great job in cleaning impurities and grease that might be on the surface. You may choose to scrub, but don’t scrub too hard.
- Vent: Cleaning the vent is not a stroll in the park; therefore, get a professional at least once in 11 months to clean your vents.
- Air Filter: Remove the air filters wither charcoal or steel filters and clean them at least once every four weeks.
- Fan:It’s essential to clean the fan as well using a degreaser and any other material found appropriate.
Common problems a range hood may have include electrical issues, such as destroyed button or light, low power to clear smoke, heat or odor, as well as excessive noise from the fan or motor. Therefore, you need to diagnose what went wrong to come up with the best solution.
To maintain your under cabinet range hood, you should try the following troubleshooting and diagnosis technique;
Hold a piece of paper over the vent of your hood, if it is working correctly, the paper would be sucked up, but if not, then the baffle filters need to be cleaned or replaced.
At this juncture, we will like to chip in that range hoods are not just under cabinets only, but you have the wall mount, insert, island, downdraft, pro range hoods, and custom range hoods.
Wall mount range hoods are also referred to as chimney range hood. They have a wide bottom and a thin area at the top. They are more expensive than under cabinet range hood and can only be mounted on walls. Island Range Hoods are, on the other hand, similar to wall mount range hoods in design, only that this is meant for islands or places with no walls.
Downdraft range hoods are mounted on floors in places out of sight. They are considered the most effective of the range hoods.
It is pertinent not to forget how essential range hoods are to a clean kitchen. Let’s remind ourselves of some of the benefits of under cabinet range hood.
- They help to ensure a clean kitchen by removing smoke, heat, smells, grease, moisture, and any other impurities from sticking to kitchen walls, ceilings, and counters.
- Cooling your kitchen is easy and fast has heat is rapidly absorbed by your range hood while cooking.
- You don’t have to worry about smoke alarms turning off or having to leave your kitchen with a range hood.
- The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is reduced.
- Selling your house just got comfortable, as you won’t have to bother about repainting; besides, a clean kitchen makes your home appealing to a buyer. Also, your property value is increased as installing a range hood will no longer be necessary.
- The lightning of some range hood readily provides extra illumination to your kitchen.
Installing your range hood is pretty straightforward, but you’ll need the following simple tools;
- Wire nuts, Wire Stripper, Screws and Screwdrivers, Circuit tester, Power drill with screw tip, and lastly, a Hammer.
Conclusion
We believe this article has been most helpful to you, and getting the best under cabinet range hood for your kitchen is a stroll in the park if every tip stated here is given utmost attention. Now you get to choose not just the best of the best brands, but you are kept abreast of the necessary information needed to get the exact type that best fits your kitchen cabinet, how to maintain and clean, as well as what to look out for when purchasing an under cabinet range hood. Having a good under cabinet range hood makes your kitchen clean.
Source: Safetyhub
