When designing a kitchen, one of the most important decisions to make is the placement and height of the range hood. Not only does the range hood play a vital role in ensuring a smoke- and odor-free cooking experience, but it also contributes to the overall aesthetics and efficiency of your kitchen.
Ensuring your range hood has been mounted at the best height is vital to ensure that any bad smells or odors are properly dispensed with. The height is dictated by several factors such as the specific hood that you desire to acquire and the height of the ceiling in your kitchen. This article looks at the best height for a range hood based on different elements that you ought to consider.
Range Hood Height Above the Gas Stove
The typical recommended height is between 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 cm) above the gas stove. This allows for effective ventilation while ensuring safe operation. For proper ventilation above your gas cooktop or range, consult your owner’s manual and install your range hood at the recommended height.
Range Hood Height Above the Induction Cooktop
For induction cooktops, the recommended range hood height is usually between 24 to 30 inches (70 to 90 cm) as well. Since induction cooktops generate less heat compared to gas cooktops, a slightly lower height may be acceptable.
Range Hood Height Above the Electric Cooktop
For electric cooktops, the ideal height is generally between 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 cm), similar to the height for induction cooktops. The goal is to ensure proper ventilation without interfering with the cooking process.
Height According to the Type of Range Hood
In addition to the difference between gas and electric cooktops, the various types of range hoods also differ in the installation height.
Wall-Mounted Hood Height
For wall-mounted range hoods, the optimal distance between the cooktop and the hood is 50 to 75 cm for electric cooktops and 65 to 75 cm for gas burners.
Island Hood Height
Like ceiling hoods, island hoods are typically installed a bit higher, which is why they generally have a higher performance than other range hoods. We recommend a minimum distance of 65 cm and a maximum distance of 90 cm from the cooktop.
Built-In, Under-Cabinet, and Flat Canopy Hood Height
For a flat canopy hood, the recommended minimum distance is 65 cm and the maximum distance is 75 cm between the cooktop and the hood. The built-in range hood is integrated into a kitchen cabinet and is therefore hardly visible. We recommend mounting the built-in hood at least 65 cm and at most 75 cm above the cooktop.
| Type of Range Hood | Optimal Distance for Electric Cooktops | Optimal Distance for Gas Burners |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-Mounted Hood | 50 to 75 cm | 65 to 75 cm |
| Island Hood | Minimum 65 cm, Maximum 90 cm | Minimum 65 cm, Maximum 90 cm |
| Built-In, Under-Cabinet, and Flat Canopy Hood | Minimum 65 cm, Maximum 75 cm | Minimum 65 cm, Maximum 75 cm |
What Factors Affect the Height of an Extractor Hood
1. Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM):
CFM refers to the airflow rate of the extractor hood, and it impacts the effectiveness of the ventilation. A higher CFM means stronger suction, which may allow for a slightly higher installation. It is therefore very important to consider this factor, as it helps you decide the most appropriate height for the hood. It can be installed farther for potent models and closer for the models that are less powerful. It is good to note that if the hood is placed exceedingly high, it might be a struggle to remove kitchen pollutants.
2. The People Using the Hood:
The height of the range hood can also be adjusted based on the average height of the users. If the people using the kitchen are taller or shorter than average, the extractor hood height can be adjusted for comfort, ensuring it's not too high or low for easy use.
3. Kitchen Layout:
The layout of the kitchen can affect the hood’s height. For example, a kitchen with a sloped ceiling may require a longer mounting height or a specially designed range hood to ensure effective air circulation.
Recommendation: In kitchens with unusual layouts or higher ceilings, the extractor hood may need to be adjusted to a higher level, or you might choose a custom range hood to maintain efficient airflow.
4. Height of the Cooktop:
As mentioned above, the type of cooktop also affects the height of the range hood. Gas cooktops, which generate more heat and smoke, usually require a lower installation height (24 to 30 inches). Induction and electric cooktops produce less heat and thus can allow the hood to be mounted higher.
Standard Range Hood Height
Gas Stoves: 24-30 inches (60-76 cm)
Induction or Electric Cooktops: 24-30 inches (60-76 cm)
Range Hood Height Calculator
Assume the following:
Cooktop area (in square feet)
CFM of the range hood
Formula:
Height = (Cooktop area × 100 CFM) ÷ CFM of the range hood
Example:
If the cooktop is 20 square feet, and the range hood has a 600 CFM rating, the calculation would be:
Height = (20 sq ft × 100 CFM) ÷ 600 CFM = 33.3 inches (approximately 85 cm)
This result is higher than the typical 24-30 inch range, so it would likely be adjusted down to 27-30 inches based on practical experience.
This simplified formula can give you a rough estimate, but for accurate installation, it's best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and adjust based on the kitchen layout, ceiling height, and user preferences. Let me know if you'd like a more specific calculation with additional details!
What If I Don’t Have Enough Range Hood Clearance Above the Stove?
If you don’t have enough range hood clearance above your stove, there are a few potential solutions to consider.
1. Use a Downdraft Range Hood
Downdraft range hoods are an excellent alternative if ceiling clearance is an issue. These hoods are integrated into the cooktop or placed at the back of the stove. They draw air downwards, rather than upwards, which eliminates the need for a traditional overhead range hood and the clearance requirements.
2. Consider a Wall-Mounted Range Hood
If you don’t have sufficient clearance for an under-cabinet hood, you could consider a wall-mounted range hood with a more compact design. These models often allow for slightly lower installation heights compared to traditional under-cabinet models.
Can a Range Hood be Too High Above a Stovetop?
Yes, a range hood can be too high above a stovetop, and this can negatively impact its performance. If the range hood is installed too high, this can result in poor ventilation and leftover smoke in your kitchen. What's more, if positioned too high, the heat generated from a stove (especially a gas stove) might not be drawn in properly, which could lead to heat accumulation around the cooktop area, posing a potential fire hazard.
Can a Range Hood be Smaller than a Cooktop?
Yes, a range hood can be smaller than the cooktop, but it’s generally not recommended. If you have a larger cooktop (e.g., a 36-inch stove) and install a smaller range hood (e.g., a 30-inch hood), the hood might not be able to efficiently cover the entire cooking surface. This can leave areas of your cooktop unventilated, which increases the risk of smoke, steam, and grease escaping into the kitchen.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s better to choose a range hood that is the same size or slightly larger than your cooktop for optimal ventilation. For example, if you have a 36-inch cooktop, a 36-inch or larger range hood is ideal.
Range Hood Width Recommendations
Below are the recommended combinations for different cooktop sizes:
| Cooktop Width | Range Hood Width for Island | Range Hood Width for a Wall-Mounted Hood | Range Hood Width for Under-Cabinet Hood | Range Hood Width for Pro Wall-Mounted Hood |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 cm | At least 90 cm | At least 90 cm | At least 90 cm | At least 90 cm |
| 90 cm | At least 100 cm | At least 100 cm | At least 90 cm | At least 90 cm |
| 100 cm | At least 120 cm | At least 120 cm | At least 100 cm | At least 120 cm |
| 120 cm | At least 150 cm | At least 150 cm | At least 120 cm | At least 120 cm |
What Can I Use if I Don't Have a Range Hood?
If you don't have a range hood or are unable to install one in your kitchen, there are several alternative solutions to help with ventilation and air purification.
1. Use an Exhaust Fan or Vent
If you don't have a range hood, you can install a window exhaust fan to pull cooking odors and smoke outside. Place it near your stove or cooking area to improve airflow.
2. Portable Range Hoods or Cooker Hoods
These are easy to install and can be moved around. They are particularly useful in kitchens without the space or structure for a permanent range hood. Some portable air purifiers are equipped with activated carbon filters to help remove odors and smoke from the air. While not as powerful as a full-range hood, they can help reduce the buildup of cooking smells.
3. Open Windows and Use Fans
Open nearby windows to create cross-ventilation. Position a fan near the window to help push the smoke and odors outside. This method is effective, especially in kitchens that have access to outdoor air and when cooking less greasy foods.
4. Cook with Lids and Use a Splatter Screen
Cooking with lids on pots and pans helps trap steam and cooking odors. This reduces the amount of air pollutants released into the kitchen.
If you're frying or cooking with oil, a splatter screen can help contain grease and smoke, preventing it from spreading throughout the kitchen.
5. Air Purifiers
Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter and a carbon filter to help reduce airborne particles and cooking smells. These are especially helpful in smaller kitchens or spaces with limited ventilation.
Conclusion
The height at which you install your kitchen range hood has a significant impact on its effectiveness. By following the industry recommendations and taking into account the type of cooktop, ceiling height, and user comfort, you can ensure that your range hood performs at its best. Whether you’re upgrading an existing range hood or installing a new one, getting the height right is crucial to maintaining a clean, fresh, and comfortable cooking environment.
Remember, every kitchen is unique, and these guidelines may need to be adjusted based on your specific setup. Be sure to consult the manufacturer's instructions for more detailed advice on installation and height placement to get the most out of your range hood.