Ductless Range Hood vs. Ducted: Which Is Right For Kitchen?

When it comes to choosing a range hood for your kitchen, the decision between a ducted and a ductless range hood can be challenging. Both types have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you depends on various factors such as your cooking habits, kitchen layout, and budget. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the differences between ducted and ductless range hoods, helping you make an informed decision for your kitchen.

What is a Range Hood?

Before we dive into the comparison, it’s essential to understand what a range hood is and its purpose in your kitchen. A range hood, also known as an exhaust hood, is an appliance installed above your cooktop or stove. It helps remove smoke, odors, heat, and airborne grease generated during cooking. By doing so, it improves indoor air quality and keeps your kitchen cleaner.

Ducted Range Hoods

What is a Ducted Range Hood?

A ducted range hood, also known as a vented or external vent range hood, is designed to capture cooking fumes and expel them outside your home through a duct system. These hoods are typically installed in kitchens where a duct system can be connected to the exterior, such as in homes with an external wall or buildings with proper ductwork.

How Does a Ducted Range Hood Work?

Ducted range hoods use a fan or blower to draw air from your kitchen, capturing smoke, grease, and odors. The air is then passed through a duct system that leads outside, where it is expelled, leaving your kitchen free of unwanted smells and pollutants.

Pros of Ducted Range Hoods

• Effective Ventilation: Ducted range hoods are highly effective at removing smoke, heat, and odors from your kitchen. Since the air is expelled outside, it doesn’t recirculate within your home, ensuring better air quality.
• Powerful Performance: Ducted hoods typically offer stronger suction power compared to ductless models, making them ideal for those who cook frequently or use high heat.
• No Need for Filter Replacement: Unlike ductless hoods, ducted range hoods do not rely on filters to clean the air. This means you don’t have to worry about regularly replacing or cleaning filters, reducing maintenance efforts.
• Lower Noise Levels: Since the fan and motor are often located in the ductwork or outside the home, ducted range hoods tend to be quieter than ductless models.

Cons of Ducted Range Hoods

• Complex Installation: Installing a ducted range hood requires a proper duct system, which can be expensive and challenging to install, especially in homes without existing ductwork. This may also require professional installation.
• Limited Flexibility: Ducted range hoods must be installed near an exterior wall or have access to existing ducts, limiting where you can place your stove or cooktop.
• Higher Initial Cost: The cost of installing a ducted range hood, including the necessary ductwork, can be higher compared to ductless models.

Ductless Range Hoods

What is a Ductless Range Hood?

A ductless range hood, also known as a recirculating range hood, does not require an external duct system. Instead, it uses a fan to draw in air, filter it to remove grease and odors, and then recirculate the clean air back into the kitchen.

How Does a Ductless Range Hood Work?

Ductless range hoods use a series of filters, typically including a grease filter and a charcoal filter, to trap grease and neutralize odors. The filtered air is then recirculated back into the kitchen.

Pros of Ductless Range Hoods

• Flexible Installation: Since ductless hoods don’t require an external duct system, they can be installed in any kitchen, regardless of location. This makes them ideal for apartments, condos, or homes without easy access to an exterior wall.
• Lower Initial Cost: Ductless range hoods are generally less expensive to purchase and install compared to ducted models, as they don’t require ductwork.
• Easy to Install: The installation process for ductless range hoods is typically straightforward, often requiring only basic tools and DIY knowledge.
• Portable and Movable: Since they don’t rely on an external duct system, ductless range hoods can be relocated more easily if you decide to rearrange your kitchen.

Cons of Ductless Range Hoods

• Less Effective Ventilation: Ductless hoods are less effective at removing heat, smoke, and odors compared to ducted models. The air is filtered but not expelled outside, meaning some odors and heat may linger.
• Regular Filter Maintenance: Ductless range hoods require regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing filters to maintain efficiency. Over time, the cost of filter replacement can add up.
• Higher Noise Levels: Since the fan and motor are located within the kitchen, ductless range hoods tend to be noisier than ducted models.
• Reduced Performance Over Time: As filters become clogged with grease and particles, the performance of ductless range hoods can decrease, requiring more frequent maintenance to maintain effectiveness.

Key Considerations When Choosing Between Ducted and Ductless Range Hoods

Kitchen Layout

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a ducted and ductless range hood is your kitchen layout. If your kitchen is close to an exterior wall or has existing ductwork, a ducted range hood may be the better option. However, if your kitchen is located in the center of your home or in an apartment without access to an exterior wall, a ductless range hood may be more practical.

Cooking Habits

Your cooking habits play a significant role in determining the best type of range hood for your kitchen. If you frequently cook meals that produce a lot of smoke, grease, or strong odors, such as frying or grilling, a ducted range hood may be more effective in maintaining air quality. On the other hand, if your cooking is lighter and produces fewer fumes, a ductless range hood may suffice.

Budget

Budget is another crucial factor to consider. Ducted range hoods generally come with a higher initial cost due to the need for ductwork and professional installation. Ductless range hoods, on the other hand, are often less expensive to purchase and install but may require ongoing maintenance costs for filter replacement.

Noise Levels

If noise is a concern for you, it’s worth noting that ducted range hoods tend to be quieter since the fan and motor are often located outside the kitchen. Ductless range hoods, with the fan and motor inside the kitchen, can be noisier, which may be a consideration for open-concept living spaces.

Long-Term Maintenance

Consider the long-term maintenance required for each type of range hood. Ducted range hoods require less frequent maintenance since they do not rely on filters. However, the ductwork may need occasional cleaning. Ductless range hoods, while easier to install, require regular filter cleaning or replacement to maintain performance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between a ducted and ductless range hood depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you prioritize powerful ventilation, have a suitable kitchen layout, and are willing to invest in installation, a ducted range hood is likely the better option. However, if you need installation flexibility, have a tighter budget, or live in a space without access to exterior walls, a ductless range hood may be the more practical choice.

Both types of range hoods can effectively improve your kitchen’s air quality and help maintain a clean and comfortable cooking environment. By carefully considering your kitchen layout, cooking habits, budget, and maintenance preferences, you can choose the range hood that best suits your needs.