How do I install a cooker hood? Tips, tricks, examples

How to Install a Hood? Tips, Guidelines, Examples

Many users, even before purchasing, wonder how to install a kitchen hood. In this brief guide, we cover the most important aspects of installation.

In a modern home and a well-equipped kitchen, an efficient kitchen hood is an essential appliance. It not only protects the health of household members but also safeguards furniture and other appliances in the kitchen and living room. What exactly is its role? Below, we outline the key functions of kitchen hoods.

• remove water vapour and moisture created during meal preparation - making the air cleaner and healthier, easier and more pleasant to breathe


• eliminate unpleasant odours that can arise when cooking (such as burnt food odours or smells from certain vegetables like cabbage or cauliflower)


• remove allergenic substances that have sensitising properties (dust, bacteria, smoke)


• protect furniture in the kitchen and living room from absorbing unpleasant odours


• shield walls in the kitchen from greasy residue buildup, reducing the need for frequent renovations


• provide useful additional lighting in the kitchen (often energy-efficient)


• add a stylish touch to the kitchen or living room interior design

 

How to Install a Hood in Extractor Mode

Kitchen hoods can operate in open or closed modes. Open mode refers to the hood functioning as an extractor, which is significantly more effective than closed mode, also known as recirculation mode.

For the kitchen extractor to perform its function properly, correct installation is essential - this is crucial. Otherwise, the appliance will not fully utilise its technical capabilities and may operate noisier. The desired situation is, therefore, a hood that works efficiently and quietly.

Key Principles for Correct Kitchen Extractor Installation

• Connection to Ventilation

An extractor hood is connected by ducting to an exhaust channel. In a multi-storey building, this would be a separate, shared vent duct connected to other flats. In a single-family house, it will be a duct that vents all fumes outside the building. When connecting the hood, use the shortest duct sections possible, and avoid unnecessary bends and turns. Square and rectangular ducts are permitted, though smooth round ducts are recommended as they create the least airflow resistance. The outlet on the hood has a specific diameter – try not to reduce it, as this will increase noise. We do not recommend spiral or flexible ducts.

• Solid Wall

The hood should be mounted on a structurally solid wall. Such a wall will be resistant to sound and vibration transmission, helping to avoid a resonating effect that can occur with plasterboard walls. If installing a ceiling hood, ensure that the ceiling structure is stable and strong. Ignoring this aspect of hood installation can result in increased noise levels and even pose a risk of wall or ceiling damage.

• Distance from the Hob

A common mistake when installing a hood is mounting it at an incorrect height. This can have negative consequences. If the hood is mounted too high – it will be ineffective and more difficult to operate (the control panel will be too high). If the hood is mounted too low – it could be damaged, especially when using a gas hob, and may also be inconvenient to use, particularly for taller users who might hit their heads or need to stoop.

Below is a simple table indicating recommended heights for various types of hobs and hoods.

 

How to Install a Hood in Recirculation Mode

The hood can also operate in closed mode, or as a recirculation hood. It does not connect to a ventilation duct and uses an additional carbon filter.

Carbon filters contain activated charcoal pellets that absorb moisture and odours. After filtering, the air returns to the kitchen.

This solution is less effective but sometimes the only option, as connecting to an external ventilation duct is difficult or even impossible in some buildings. Some users even prefer recirculation hoods for their decorative qualities, with many models resembling elegant and modern lighting fixtures like island hoods.

 



 

Island Hood GLOBALO ARGENTELO

The installation principles for recirculation hoods are the same as for extractor hoods, except for the ventilation connection recommendations.

How to Install a Hood - Summary

If you want to learn how to install a hood, here are the key points summarised from our guide:

• a hood can be used as an extractor (connected to ventilation) or as a recirculation hood (closed circuit)


• when installing, make sure the wall is sturdy


• install the hood at the correct height above the hob


• use smooth round ducts, avoid sharp bends, use the shortest sections possible


• ensure easy access for servicing in case of a breakdown


• remember the proximity of a power source to power the hood


• in a suspended ceiling, you can soundproof the duct system to reduce noise

We hope that readers who came across this guide with the question, How to Install a Hood? found the answers and useful information to make the process easier.