Add a Functional Statement Piece to Your Kitchen with the Best Range Hood
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GE Profile 36" Island Chimney Range Hood -
Viking 48" Range Hood -
Kitchenaid 48" Commercial-Style Series Range Hood -
Miele DA 398-5 Wall Mounted Range Hood -
GE Profile 30" Wall Mount Hood JV936DSS -
Broan-NuTone BCSD130SS Glacier Range Hood -
Whirlpool GXW6536DXS Wall Mount Glass Canopy Chimney Range Hood -
BROAN NuTone BCDF130SS Glacier Convertible Range Hood -
GE Profile 30" Wall Mount Hood JV936DSS -
Summit Appliance H1720W 20-Inch Wide Ductless Range Hood -
Buyer's Guide
Range hoods are an important fixture in the world of appliances. They serve two needs: appearance and functionality. A good range hood will possess a style that is eye-catching and impressive, but it must also do the most basic job description well, too— it must disperse heat, smoke, and smells. The problem is that most approach a range hood as though it were a secondary concern, and never take the time to price shop before. If you do, you'll find that often a good range hood can cost as much as a good range.
The high prices of some hoods may drive you away, but take a moment to consider all your options. There are always affordable hoods out there, and we are here to help you make a smart, informed purchase. Below, we have listed the best range hoods in 2022 that are functional, look great in any kitchen, and will suit a variety of budgets.
Comparing the Best Range Hoods in 2022
GE Profile 36" Island Chimney Range Hood - Best Range Hood Overall
The GE Profile line of range hoods is highly rated for being quiet and effective. The island mount PV977NSS offers much of the features, design, and performance of a high-end range hood without having quite as large of a price tag. Although this range hood isn't exactly cheap either, it stops short of the exorbitant prices of many other models.
The PV977NSS has a 450 CFM blower to vent smoke, grease, and odors out of the kitchen. This isn't as powerful as more expensive models, but is plenty for most kitchens. Push button controls are easy to use, controlling the four fan speeds and three lighting levels for the dual halogen lights. A dishwasher-safe grease filter makes maintenance simple. This sleek range hood offers good performance from a trusted brand, while being reasonably priced for what it is.
Viking 48" Range Hood - Runner Up
Viking is an extremely well-known manufacturer of high-end kitchen appliances with their products found in high-end kitchens everywhere because of their excellent performance, sleek styling, and brand recognition. The VWH54848SS range hood is no exception, with an attractive stainless steel design that will suit any high-end kitchen. This range hood requires the CFM blower to be purchased separately, with the option of either a 1200 CFM or 1500 CFM motor. Both are extremely powerful, and can be used over a commercial-style cooktop.
The VWH54848SS has a heat sensor allowing it to automatically regulate ventilation according to conditions, while bright LED lighting illuminates the cooktop. The control knobs are both backlit and retractable; they extend and illuminate to control fan speeds and lighting level, and then retract back into the unit when not in use. The VWH54848SS also includes heating lamps to keep food warm until you are ready to serve. Dishwasher-safe filters and easy to clean surfaces make this range hood simple to maintain. Although the Viking VWH54848SS is expensive, it is an obvious choice when seeking a true high-end range hood.
Kitchenaid 48" Commercial-Style Series Range Hood - Honorable Mention
The Kitchenaid KXW9748YSS is a true high-end range hood, with commercial-style design and the need to buy the CFM blower separately. This large range hood is suited to being installed over a large commercial-style cooktop (Up to 108K BTU) with the optional 1200 CFM motor. A 600 CFM motor is also available. A three-speed fan and light controls for the three halogen lights are contained in hidden controls, designed to integrate seamlessly with the sleek design.
The blower will automatically turn on when the unit detects the presence of potentially harmful heat, allowing for hands-free peace of mind. Dishwasher-safe filters make maintenance easy. The KXW9748YSS also includes two warming lamps, allowing for keeping prepared food warm until you are ready to serve. Although expensive, this range hood is representative of a true high-end option, with powerful performance, commercial-style design, and a high price tag.
Miele DA 398-5 Wall Mounted Range Hood - Consider
Miele is a high-end company known for their excellent, high-quality products. The DA 398-5 wall mount range hood can be used for either vented or recirculated use, while featuring an attractive stainless steel design. Front-mounted controls for the halogen lighting and four fan speeds are easy to use. A powerful 625 CFM blower is included, and is more than adequate for the needs of the average kitchen. Dishwasher-safe filters make maintenance simple and although the Miele DA 398-5 might not seem loaded with features, this company tends to focus on taking simplicity to the highest level of quality possible, ensuring reliable and effective performance.
GE Profile 30" Wall Mount Hood JV936DSS - Best High End Range Hood
The GE Profile JV936DSS wall mount designer hood adds a sleek appearance and powerful performance to any kitchen and uses a powerful 600 CFM blower with four fan speeds to choose from. Like any range hood, the highest setting can get quite loud, but is very effective at drawing steam, smoke, and odors out of the kitchen. The JV936DSS uses halogen lights to light up the cooking area, and includes a dedicated setting for those who like to use the range hood as a kitchen nightlight.
The grease filter is removable for easy cleaning. Once installed, this range hood is easy to use, but the instructions included for installation are not the best and can cause some frustration. However, the GE Profile JV936DSS is overall a powerful and effective range hood, justifying its high price tag.
Broan-NuTone BCSD130SS Glacier Range Hood - Best Range Hood Overall
This under cabinet range hood from Broan is an excellent way to get a good quality range hood for a reasonable price. This range hood offers a 430 CFM internal blower, with four fan speeds to choose from. Noise levels are very low at lower speeds, although they can get quite loud at the highest setting.
The Broan QS330SS comes in several different colors, including the slightly more expensive stainless steel version we’re referring to here.
The QS330SS has a sleek design and looks finished underneath, as well as include dual bulbs with three levels of light settings. This offers excellent lighting for both cooking and as a nightlight, if desired. Installation is quick, and the electronic controls are easy to use. Available for under $400, the Broan QS330SS is a simple and effective range hood that makes for an excellent overall choice.
Whirlpool GXW6536DXS Wall Mount Glass Canopy Chimney Range Hood - Best Range Hood Overall
This wall mount range hood from Whirlpool offers a stylish glass canopy that creates a sleek and unobtrusive look, especially in a more modern kitchen. The GXW6536DXS comes in stainless steel, and features a 400 CFM internal blower with a choice of three fan speeds, plenty of power for the needs of an average home kitchen.
The push-button controls are simple to use and although there is only a single lighting level, it works well for lighting the cooking area. Dishwasher-safe filters make for easy maintenance, while the purchase of a separate kit allows this range hood to be converted to recirculation. The Whirlpool GXW6536DXS is basic, but offers very good performance and excellent style for the price.
BROAN NuTone BCDF130SS Glacier Convertible Range Hood - Best Range Hood Overall
The Broan QS230SS under cabinet range hood comes in a variety of colors, with the stainless steel finish costing the most. However, this range hood is very affordable in any color, being available for well under $300 online. Although this low price means a slightly less powerful internal blower, 300 CFM should be adequate for most average kitchens.
The QS230SS has a three-speed fan that produces very little noise on the low and medium settings. A nice touch at this price range, this range hood also includes three-level lights, allowing you to control the amount of light used for cooking or even as a night light. It’s easy to keep clean, with dishwasher-safe filters and installation instructions are easy to follow, making the affordable Broan QS230SS an excellent budget-friendly choice from a trusted brand name.
GE Profile 30" Wall Mount Hood JV936DSS - Best High End Range Hood
The GE Profile JV936DSS wall mount designer hood adds a sleek appearance and powerful performance to any kitchen and uses a powerful 600 CFM blower with four fan speeds to choose from. Like any range hood, the highest setting can get quite loud, but is very effective at drawing steam, smoke, and odors out of the kitchen. The JV936DSS uses halogen lights to light up the cooking area, and includes a dedicated setting for those who like to use the range hood as a kitchen nightlight.
The grease filter is removable for easy cleaning. Once installed, this range hood is easy to use, but the instructions included for installation are not the best and can cause some frustration. However, the GE Profile JV936DSS is overall a powerful and effective range hood, justifying its high price tag.
Summit Appliance H1720W 20-Inch Wide Ductless Range Hood - Best Range Hood Overall
For those seeking a range hood for a smaller kitchen, the 20-inch Summit H1620W is a budget-friendly choice. This under cabinet range hood comes in black, white, and stainless steel, and offers basic utility for a low price. Although the 180 CFM internal blower won't be powerful enough for heavy-duty uses, it is more than adequate for basic cooking. There are two fan speeds to choose from, a switchable light for convenience, and can be converted to be used for recirculation as well. Although basic, the Summit H1620W is a budget-friendly option for those with a small kitchen, and offers good performance for the price; this range hood can be had for under $100.
Buyer's Guide
When cooking, it’s fun to really be immersed in the smell and flavor of the food you’re cooking. However, this can be overwhelming at times, especially if plenty of smoke is rising in the process. And unless you’re fine with your kitchen smelling for the rest of the day, this is probably not what you want.
That’s why people install range hoods. Range hoods suck up the dirty air and scents from the range below so that you can leave the kitchen with no scents, smoke, or grease remaining. Though they can be a bit of a hassle to install, once they’re up and running, they’re very helpful and can make cooking much easier.
What is a Range Hood?
A range hood is a device that ventilates the air in the area below it. It is installed above a range to suck up smoke and air while cooking. In spaces where ventilation is not that great, range hoods can keep the space from smelling like food for the next few hours. And, if something begins to burn, a hood can clean up the air before your smoke alarm goes off.
Why Do You Need a Range Hood?
Here’s why you should, at the very least, consider getting a range hood.
They get rid of smoke
Even if you aren’t burning your food, you may still end up with a bit of smoke while cooking. This can be due to the ingredients themselves or the method of cooking that you’re using. Regardless, smoke can be visible and can even end up staining your surrounding furniture, so getting rid of the smoke as soon as you can help minimize this risk.
No scents anywhere
Food smells good, but only when you’re hungry. With a full stomach, the last thing you’d want to smell would be the food you just ate. Other than removing smoke, range hoods also suck up any scents or smell that may have arisen from cooking. Even the most potent odors can be eliminated with the help of a range hood.
Things to Consider When Buying a Range Hood
Remember these tips when getting yourself a range hood.
Size
Imagine if you had a range hood twice the size (or even half the size) of your stove or range. Not a pretty sight, is it? While bigger may be better when it comes to some things in life, the same can’t be easily said for range hoods. Though there are benefits to having large range hoods, it’s not always the case.
Large range hoods are primarily useful because they have more coverage and are therefore more effective at removing smoke and odor. Even a small range or cooktop could benefit from a large range hood. However, the main drawback to this is that the difference in size can be distracting, and even ugly to look at from a design perspective.
If you prefer keeping your kitchen looking nice and aesthetically pleasing, you’ll want a range hood that has similar dimensions to your actual range. It doesn’t have to have the same size— as long as they have similar dimensions, everything should be fine.
Noise
One disadvantage inherent in any range hoods is the noise that comes with using the device. Since it uses fans to suck up air through one end and releases it somewhere else, it’s bound to make noise, especially if it’s running on high power. If you don’t care about the noise, then you should be fine with any model, but some people would prefer a quieter and more relaxing experience when using a range hood.
Range Hood Price Range
Range hoods cost anywhere from $80 to $400, depending on the manufacturer, size, and build quality. Note that in general, the pricier models tend to have more features, such as more control options, quieter performance, and so on.
How We Choose the Best Range Hood
Our range hoods were chosen based on their noise level, build quality, size, and customer reviews. We conducted thorough research into today's available products to find the best ones, just for you.
FAQ
Do range hoods need to be vented outside?
Not necessarily. Range hoods simply filter the air that gets sucked in, so you can technically circulate the air back into the room, as it will be cleaner and more odorless than the air that came in. Recirculated or external ventilation depends both on personal preference and your kitchen's setup.
What are range hoods useful for?
Range hoods are useful in removing airborne grease, odor, and smoke from a kitchen, all of which can ruin the color of furniture nearby, cause lingering smells, and dirty your kitchen. With a good range hood, you'll have a cleaner kitchen and cleaner air.
