🧠 What to Consider Before Buying a Rangehood

A rangehood is a key kitchen appliance that improves air quality, removes smoke and odours, and helps protect your walls and ceilings from grease buildup. But choosing the right one isn’t just about looks — it’s about performance, kitchen layout, and safety. Here’s what you need to know before making your purchase.

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🔹 1. Know Your Kitchen Setup

Before you start shopping, measure your space and take note of:

• Ceiling height
• Cooktop width
• Wall clearance
• Existing ducting location (if any)

Having accurate dimensions will help you choose a rangehood that fits properly and performs well.

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🔹 2. Decide Between Ducted vs. Ductless (Recirculating)

Ducted Rangehoods

• Vent air outside your home
• Provide the most effective smoke and heat removal
• Usually quieter and better for heavy cooking

Ductless Rangehoods

• Recirculate air through charcoal filters
• Ideal where external ducting isn’t possible
• Less effective at removing heat and moisture

Tip: If possible, always choose a ducted system — especially for serious home cooks — because it removes more grease, odour, and moisture.

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🔹 3. Match Size to Your Cooktop

The rangehood should be as wide as your cooktop — ideally a bit wider:

• For a 600mm cooktop → 600mm+ rangehood
• For a 900mm cooktop → 900mm+ rangehood

This ensures smoke and fumes are captured before they spread.

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🔹 4. Understand Airflow & Suction Power (Measured in CFM or m³/h)

Airflow tells you how much air the rangehood can move:

• Higher airflow = stronger extraction
• Measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute) or m³/h

General guideline:

• Light cooking: lower airflow
• Frequent frying or heavy cooking: higher airflow

Ask your installer or retailer for recommended airflow based on your cooktop type.

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🔹 5. Consider Noise Levels

Rangehoods vary significantly in noise. Decibel levels are usually listed by manufacturers.

• Quieter models are preferable for open-plan kitchens
• Ducted systems with smooth ducting (like semi-rigid ducting) are generally quieter than systems with flexible foil ducting

Pro tip: Look for rangehoods with multiple fan speeds — lower speeds often offer sufficient ventilation for everyday cooking with less noise.

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🔹 6. Choose the Right Style

Your rangehood should fit both function and design:

• Under-cabinet — classic and space-saving
• Canopy/Wall-mounted — modern look with strong performance
• Island — great for island cooktops
• Downdraft — retractable option for sleek kitchens

Each has different installation and airflow characteristics — so pick what suits your space best.

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🔹 7. Check Filter Type & Maintenance Needs

Filters capture grease and odours. Common types:

• Metal baffle filters: washable, long-lasting, best for ducted systems
• Charcoal filters: needed for ductless systems & require regular replacement

Maintenance matters: clean filters often for best performance and reduced fire risk.

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🔹 8. Ducting Matters — Don’t Overlook It!

Your rangehood’s effectiveness depends heavily on ducting quality:

• Use semi-rigid ducting if possible — it offers better airflow, less grease buildup, and quieter operation.
• Avoid overly long runs or sharp bends — these reduce performance.

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🔹 9. Safety Features to Look For

Good rangehoods often include:

• Heat sensors
• Auto shut-off
• Grease filters that are easy to clean
• Correct electrical rating

These features help keep your kitchen safe and efficient.

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🔹 10. Budget Wisely

Rangehood prices vary widely. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option:

• Invest in good airflow and quiet operation
• Balance price with long-term performance and maintenance costs

A quality rangehood paired with proper installation will last longer and perform better.

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✅ Final Tip: Professional Installation is Worth It

Even the best rangehood won’t work well if it’s installed incorrectly. A professional installer will:

• Ensure correct ducting
• Optimize airflow
• Reduce noise
• Improve safety

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Choosing the right rangehood means better air quality, reduced fire risk, quieter operation, and a more enjoyable cooking experience. With the right information — and the right product — you’ll be breathing easier in your kitchen in no time!