Without a kitchen hood, the atmosphere can become unpleasant due to steam, grease, and sometimes smoke while cooking. Ventilation systems are typical, as most homes have ventilation ducts in kitchen areas.
For situations where using a ventilation duct is not feasible, a ductless kitchen hood, a relatively new addition to the building materials market, can be a lifesaver. This equipment is essential for creating a suitable environment in the kitchen, allowing you to cook without being overwhelmed by cooking vapors and odors from processed food items.
How to Select a Suitable Kitchen Hood System
Currently, manufacturers offer many models of hoods with various designs, and the buyer must decide which type they need. There are two main types of kitchen vapor extraction systems available on the market:
- The first option is a well-designed air purification device – the ductless kitchen hood. Like a ducted hood, it is installed directly above the stove. These hoods use a carbon filter to recirculate kitchen air, passing it through the filter to remove impurities. After cleaning, the kitchen air becomes breathable without any contaminants.
- The second option is the more familiar exhaust ventilation. It’s a simple system where a box above the stove draws in dirty air and channels it into the building’s ventilation duct. This conventional design has become commonplace, and many people choose it out of habit.
When comparing the two systems, it’s important to consider the relatively high cost of carbon filters and the regular need for their replacement, which involves time loss. Most experts agree that installing a ductless system saves time and nerves initially, but ongoing filter replacement and maintenance are necessary.
Ductless Kitchen Hoods: Key Features
When considering a ductless system, it’s important to think about post-purchase installation and maintenance.
Installation is similar to a standard ventilation system, but with a ductless system, you don’t have to consider the relative position of the ventilation exit. A significant distance from the stove to the ventilation hole can be problematic for ducted systems, as long ducts and bends reduce efficiency and increase the load on the motor.
With a ductless hood, regular filter replacement is essential. If consumables are replaced timely, the system works efficiently and purifies the air thoroughly. Delayed replacement can lead to inefficient air recirculation and failure to remove harmful compounds, leading to ineffective operation and potential breakdowns.
It’s recognized that reliable ductless models are more expensive, as are their parts, but they have a lower risk of malfunction. Quality, therefore, shouldn’t be compromised for cost.
One significant advantage is that filters can be replaced by anyone, quickly and easily, without dismantling the frame. The entire procedure takes just a few minutes.
As the system is ductless, there’s no need to worry about the size of the air ducts.
Proper maintenance and careful use of this type of device are crucial. Preventing grease and dirt from entering the system and timely changing filtration devices can save unexpected costs and ensure the air purifier’s longevity.
Advantages of Ductless Hoods
- Filtering hoods operate on a ‘set and forget’ principle. If the hood is wall-mounted and not built-in, installation is simple, requiring just two bolts in the wall. In contrast, ducted systems require time-consuming installation of ductwork connected to home ventilation. With a ductless hood, you can enjoy clean air immediately after installation.
- Modern ductless hoods are almost noiseless, bringing joy to their users. High-quality models provide complete satisfaction, whereas ducted hoods can be very noisy.
- Design is also an important consideration. Ductless hoods support a refined kitchen style without the need to hide cumbersome ductwork.
- The quality of air is superior with ductless hoods. Forced ventilation simply expels harmful compounds and steam with the air outside. In contrast, filtering hoods efficiently purify the air, maintaining freshness and reducing the need for ventilation.
Recommended Brands to Consider
Currently, several well-known brands offer quality kitchen hoods at reasonable prices.
- Ariston – Known for producing a wide range of appliances for about 15 years, Ariston hoods have an excellent reputation. You can trust their products for excellent performance.
- Integra – A popular manufacturer whose products effectively remove vapors and odors from the kitchen. The latest designs and long-lasting filters in their hoods confirm their high quality.
- Bosch and Zigmund-Shtain from Germany are very popular for their quality hoods that ensure fresh air in the kitchen around the clock.
If you still wish to install a ducted system, the optimal choice is a PVC duct. All the companies listed above offer such products.
In choosing a kitchen hood, consider whether you can afford to buy cheap installations. Pay attention to expert recommendations and experiences of those who have already purchased such equipment. Understand that a cheap ductless kitchen hood might turn out to be expensive in the long run due to frequent breakdowns and repair costs, whereas an expensive model will work efficiently for many years.
