What exactly is a range hood? How is it useful?
Range hood, also known as vent hood, is an enclosure installed on the space right above your range.
It’s equipped with a fan to efficiently suck the smoke, steam, fumes, and airborne debris that’s produced when cooking.
A range hood also provides an additional means of ventilation. At the same time, it filters the residues that are coming off your stove, away from your food and you.
Now, what’s a ductless range hood, and how does it differ from the ducted type?
Ductless range hoods do not exhaust the air out of your home as you cook. However, it circulates the air better while removing harmful pollutants in the air by filtering it.
This type of hood is impressively versatile. It can be installed in almost all kitchen types. Since it’s ductless, you may install this hood to your kitchen easily without altering the home exteriors.
A duct range hood, on the other hand, vents out the air from the kitchen instead of filtering it. This hood has limitations in terms of installation capacities.
There are multiple considerations and restrictions when it comes to mounting duct range hoods.
This is why, if you are planning to install a range hood at home, you may want to go for ductless. It will not require extensive labor and you are free to choose how and where it should be mounted.
What to Look for When Choosing Ductless Range Hoods
Here are some of the range hood features you should consider:
Number of Fan Speeds
Most hoods these days can offer between three to six fan speeds. But, those hoods with a minimum of two fan speeds are still recommendable.
At the very least, make sure to select a hood that provides you with a high-speed setting, for when you’re cooking, and a low setting, for after you’re done in the kitchen.
Exhaust Timer
Not all range hoods have this feature but this certainly could come in handy. It’s convenient because it allows automatic disabling of the fan after a certain period.
Thermostat Control
Hoods with this feature may have a higher price range. But it may be worth the cost if you have the budget for it. Range hoods with thermostat control are equipped with built-in temperature sensors. It’ll automatically turn the fan when it detects the temperature below the hood vastly increasing.
Its main purpose is to protect microwave appliances from damages because of high-temperature exposure. So if you are concerned about your microwaves, then consider this. Otherwise, you can perfectly opt for manual hoods.
Airflow
More airflow would normally mean better ventilation. However, you have to also consider its smoke-capture capability along the way.
Not all hoods with promising airflow are guaranteed to provide impressive capturing of fumes and airborne pollutants.
Reviews of the Best Ductless Range Hoods
A list of quality range hoods that capture the varied essence of venting needs.
Top 15 Best Ductless Range Hoods
1.Broan Aluminum Power Pack Range Hood Insert
[img_products img_code=”71fRmmFTz6L” alt=”Broan Aluminum Power Pack” code=”B001ASD77O” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
We consider this hood one of the best range hoods. It can release filters quite well and quickly. What’s interesting about this is it has a built-in lighting capability.
You may add up to two 40watt bulbs in the hood. It’s also worth mentioning that this model comes in an aluminum finish. It’s sleek and easy to maintain as cleaning its surfaces is effortless.
2. Cosmo COS-QS75
[img_products img_code=”61-sgk-JKML” alt=”Cosmo COS-QS75 30 in.” code=”B013JVO1U6″ reviews=”View on Amazon”]
If there’s some tough cooking going on at home, this is a perfect range hood for you. This hood has efficient dual motors.
It’s made out of stainless material gearing out to an impressive durability feature. You’d also appreciate its four fan speed choices to suit your every need.
Plus, the design is also sleek and quite modern.
3. Cosmo 5MU30
[img_products img_code=”61w1j0pDcSL” alt=”Cosmo 5MU30 30 in” code=”B074PBLJVY” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
When it comes to range hoods, you would come across the brand Cosmo. They are particularly reputable for providing high-quality hoods.
This model is an easy-mount hood. You can just directly attach it to a wall or right beneath a cabinet.
It comes in three fan speeds, all with impressively quiet performance. Its versatility is what made this item stand out.
It can be installed in either ductless or ducted mounting. It’s also very easy to use. We really think you’d love this.
4. Cosmo UC30
[img_products img_code=”717sv7PSbwL” alt=”Cosmo UC30 30 in” code=”B00SB4R4J2″ reviews=”View on Amazon”]
Here’s another entry from Cosmo. A self-circulating type of range hood that looks very stylish.
If you want a hood that would look quite well with your kitchen theme, you may want to take a peek at this.
Aside from its gorgeous appearance, it’s a high performing range hood. It is very powerful with a fan that moves up to 760CFM.
You may choose a fan speed based on your needs. It’s equipped with 3-speed fan options.
5.Broan-NuTone 413004
[img_products img_code=”61mXyfv2jlL” alt=”Broan-NuTone 413004 ” code=”B0002YTM0I” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
This one is very popular. In fact, we’d say this is one of the most top-picked hoods in the market.
Not surprising at all, its lighting capability is very helpful for a better cooking experience. Although this model’s fan is powerful, it does not generate that much sound.
There are two fan speeds, ideal for home use. You also have the option to install this range hood in either a ducted or ductless setup.
6.Hauslane | Chef Series 30″ PS18
[img_products img_code=”61FqvPzWlSL” alt=”Hauslane | Chef Series 30″ code=”B06XWFPJLH” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
This item is from a new brand but based on the reviews, it looks like it’s something you should keep an eye out for.
PS18 is remarkable for its ability to effectively exhaust fumes. It’s great to know you are assured that the air around you as you cook is not contaminated.
Aside from its powerful exhaust capability, it has three venting choices. In addition to that is its backdraft damper. This is a great selling point, no doubt.
7. Range Hood T-16JA
[img_products img_code=”51RuoFZXOIL” alt=”Range Hood 30″ code=”B07RT8W7FW” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
T-16JA is well known for its durable stainless steel mesh filters and baffle. The filters are good odor absorbers.
It’s also very up-to-date and modern with its display panel that’s touchscreen. Selecting the settings you prefer has been literally made simpler.
Aside from the touchscreen feature, the design is also attractive. We’d say if you have modern taste, this one will win your choice.
An additional feature you would want to know is that it is dishwasher safe. Cleaning the sticky hood will no longer be a problem at all.
8. ZLINE ZLKB-30 KB-30
[img_products img_code=”61zjqEhYI7L” alt=”ZLINE ZLKB-30 KB-30 Wall” code=”B00E4O0R10″ reviews=”View on Amazon”]
This is another item with strong motor power, 760 CFM. A unit that’s highly capable of sucking heat, odor, and smoke in a snap.
You can adjust the fan speed up to four different levels. It’s quite ideal for those who love grilling and want to take care of the intense suffocating smoke.
It’s made out of steel, so you are assured of its sturdy quality. An additional layer of protective wrap is also added, keeping the unit safe from scratches.
9. Air King AD1306
[img_products img_code=”719ooTj7L0L” alt=”Air King AD1306 Advantage” code=”B00BMZTZ8K” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
For a budget-friendly range hood unit, we present you with one of the most affordable hoods in the market.
Of course, it’s with high quality and impressive performance. Although the design is basic and not as sleek as the rest on this list, its entire unit is constructed from 23-gauge stainless steel.
This hood is very sturdy and durable. It could be utilized for a long period of time even with little maintenance.
The unit has a lighting capability included. However, you must know that bulbs are bought separately.
10.ZuhneVentus 30 inch Kitchen Wall Mount Ductless
[img_products img_code=”51iEZtEj6xL” alt=”Zuhne Ventus 30 inch Kitchen” code=”B01G5KEH9I” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
Zuhne range hood seems pretty average but we commend its top-notch performance. Its entirety is balanced with great efficiency and power.
Its control panel buttons are soft touch. You wouldn’t have to exert that much force to operate the unit. Buttons aren’t complicated as well.
The features may not be that flashy but in terms of operation, you would find this hood simple to use. You can adjust the fan speed in three options.
Lastly, it’s equipped with a filter that’s charcoal fitted. All in all, we think this unit is worthy to be in the list of best range hoods.
11. EKON NAP02
[img_products img_code=”519vfXG7DGL” alt=”EKON NAP02-30IN Range” code=”B07D3NNKQQ” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
A range with immense speed, 900CFM, yet little to no noise. Even when the fan is set to its maximum speed, you can’t hear a hint of annoying buzz.
We’d say that’s amazing considering its whooping speed and motor capacity. Its powerhouse motor is four-speed and about 230-watt.
Tempting, isn’t it? This unit is also convertible. You can use it as ducted or ductless, it is all up to you.
Mounting wise, a guaranteed easy peasy task. This is a highly recommendable hood. A perfectly clean air, silent, and optimal suction, what more could we ask for?
12. CIARRA CAS75206
[img_products img_code=”61fbTMjPBbL” alt=”CIARRA CAS75206 30 inch” code=”B07JZ7FWTM” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
If you’re one of those consumers who think performance is as important as the design, well you’d like CIARRA CAS75206.
The design is exquisite and sleek. Plus, it’s engineered with awesome capabilities. This hood has powerful suction and speed and yet it’s not loud. It is also very easy to install.
It could work as ductless or ducted depending on your preference. In case you are planning to convert the mounting, there is no need to buy a new unit.
What makes it unique is that it comes with an energy-saving function. All these impressive features, packed at a reasonable price.
13. Kitchen Bath STL75 Collection 30-inch Wall-mounted Stainless Steel Range Hood
[img_products img_code=”71XmcMO5QSL” alt=”Kitchen Bath Collection” code=”B00E8KC36M” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
Here is another interesting hood, it is capable of providing sufficient ventilation regardless if installed with or without a duct.
Similarly, STL75 also has a touchscreen control panel like ZLKB-30. However, performance-wise, the STL75 is not as heavy-duty as the one previously mentioned.
But, you’d be impressed by its filtering system. It is a combination of a charcoal filter and an aluminum micro-cell grease filter.
Its filter is definitely efficient at sucking pollutants in the air and a 400CFM suction capacity isn’t that bad at all.
The only thing we think could have been better for this item is its noise level. Though not that irritating, still you’d hear a slight noise from the unit when using it.
14. Air King AD1213
[img_products img_code=”51%2BCbaU1xfL” alt=”Air King AD1213 Advantage” code=”B00155YL2C” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
This unit has a neat white finish that’s made entirely out of stainless steel. It is easy to clean and maintain.
It comes with a removable aluminum filter to keep the sucked airborne particles from getting into the motor.
The filters are made removable for those who want to use charcoal-based filters. We think you’d like to know that this model comes with a light sufficient lamp.
It will make cooking easier and more enjoyable for you while ensuring a safe kitchen atmosphere.
15. Cosmo 63190
[img_products img_code=”61jTOw97y9L” alt=”Cosmo 63190 36 in” code=”B00LI92FPU” reviews=”View on Amazon”]
Last one from the Cosmo brand on our list, the 63190. It has a high performing 760CFM suction speed that produces no trace sound at all.
It is designed with an Arc Flow filter, it is both washable and durable. The hood also comes with LEDs to help you cook better even at night.
The push-button controls are soft touch and easy to utilize. You have three fan speed options for high, medium, and low fan speed necessities.
The model has a display panel for an easier means of checking the settings and timer.
The power button is equipped with immediate and delayed power down. We were also delighted about how easy the cleaning and maintenance was for this particular unit.
Plus, you can mount this hood either ductless or ducted. All in all, 63190 is feature-packed and deserves a spot on our list.
This sums up our list of high quality and best performing ductless range hoods in the market.
Conclusion
The biggest reasons why ductless hoods are popular nowadays: it is easier to install, cheaper, and has better means of ensuring quality air circulation.
Hoods indeed come with varied features, functionalities, and capabilities. It sure is tempting to select a unit with high-end specs.
However, we want to remind you that to get the most out of your money’s value, you always have to prioritize your venting needs.
We hope the massive selection we provided helped you in choosing a suitable model to fit your range hood necessities.