Electric range hood
An electric range hood is a very useful device that should be in every kitchen. But for a person who is not at all versed in the intricacies of the operation of such a device, it can be very difficult to choose the right model. For example, sometimes there is no way to mount an air duct in the kitchen. In this case, it is necessary to choose a hood without a duct. We will talk about the advantages and disadvantages, about the selection criteria and the rules for installing devices of this kind in this article.
to contents ↑The principle of operation of the electric hood
Depending on the principle of operation, air cleaning equipment for this purpose is classified as follows:
- Flowing.
- Recirculating.
- Mixed type.
In another article on our site of useful tips you can also find a description types of hoods for the kitchen.
Flow hood or aspirator
When you turn on such a device, polluted air is discharged into the central ventilation system through the duct. Fresh air mass replaces the departed air.
For better performance of such hoods, it is necessary that a window or window be opened in the next room.
Important! This electric hood is considered the most efficient, since the entire volume of air is completely replaced. But a prerequisite for installing this equipment is the presence of an air duct, which is not possible in every kitchen. If you want to choose this type of hood, follow the link “Cooker hoods with ventilation connections - the best models”.
Recirculation hood or absorber
Similar devices work a little differently than the type already described. The flow of contaminated air is absorbed by the device, after which it is passed through a system of special filters and returned back to the room in purified form.
Such devices have up to four filters. Among them there are those that do rough cleaning, that is, they remove large particles and grease droplets from the air, and fine filters that trap the smallest dirt and unpleasant odors.
Important! Many modern hoods of this type have activated carbon filters in their configuration. You will learn a detailed description of the principle of operation of such devices in our post “Cooker hoods without connecting to ventilation are the best models”.
Mixed hoods
A similar technique can work in the two modes described above. This is its undeniable plus, because the user himself can choose what suits him.
to contents ↑Important! The cost of such devices is much higher than mono-mode systems. This is a significant drawback.
Electric cooker hood without duct
Often you can find negative reviews about such a technique. Many believe that she does not cope with her duties and do not take into account the benefits of these hoods.
Benefits of exhaust without duct
Recirculation electric hood for the kitchen has a considerable number of positive characteristics:
- Simplicity of design. Such a device is a compact flat device that does not require a connection to central ventilation and additional installation work.
- Provides natural air exchange in the room.If flow-through cleaners lead to a partial blockage of the central ventilation system, the hood-absorbers are only an addition to the ventilation system and do not interfere with the natural process of air exchange.
- The effectiveness of such devices can be no worse than flow-through devices.
Important! A similar effect is possible only with timely replacement and cleaning of the filter system.
- Ease of installation. Installation of this type of hood is very simple: just screw the device to the wall and plug it into a power outlet.
- Design. Such appliances do not visually overload the kitchen interior.
- Ease of use. The hood is easy to care for. Coarse filters are washed in running warm water using detergents, and fine filters are periodically replaced with new ones.
- Cost. Hoods of this design are much cheaper than all other electrical devices for air purification in the kitchen.
Important! Replacing or buying new household appliances in most cases involves repairing the kitchen. It should be remembered that you need to think through everything to the smallest detail in the interior of the room, in order to subsequently avoid various inconveniences. A good helper in solving this problem will be our special review. "Arrangement of furniture in the kitchen".
Disadvantages of hood without duct
It doesn’t happen that technology has no shortcomings. Although for some people, such shortcomings turn into advantages:
- Same design. Such devices are intended for small premises and cannot please the user with their original appearance. Their design seems simple and of the same type.
- Filter replacement. For proper operation of the hood requires constant periodic replacement of filters. And this, of course, is an additional financial cost, especially if the device has several systems for fine filtering.
Important! Some models of flow hoods also have replaceable filter systems.
- Replacements can be made differently in each model. As a rule, the manufacturer indicates such information in the instructions for the unit. Timing depends on the intensity of the hood and its maintenance.
to contents ↑Important! Filter elements will have to be replaced less often if the appliance is not turned off immediately after cooking, but after a few minutes.
Criteria for choosing an electric hood without duct
Recirculation hoods are quite popular and are in great demand. But in order to remain satisfied with your choice for a very long time after purchase, you must buy the device, paying attention to the following main parameters.
Performance level
This indicator determines how much air the electric hood passes for a certain time. To choose the optimal parameter for your kitchen, you need to make simple calculations:
- Multiply the area of the kitchen by its height.
- Multiply the result by 12 (the number is the established rate of air exchange).
- Multiply the result by 1.3 (coefficient of performance).
Important! Some manufacturers indicate this parameter without regard to efficiency. You should not buy a device with more performance than required. This will negatively affect both the noise level during operation of the device and your utility bills.
Hood dimensions
The main thing that every buyer should remember is that the electric hood for the kitchen in width should not be less than the width of the hob. Otherwise - she just can not cope with the task. Based on this:
- For a hob with a width of 40 cm, select a hood model with a width of 50 cm.
- For a stove of 60 cm, it is better to choose a larger appliance, with a width of 80 cm, if the arrangement of the kitchen furniture and the area of the room allow.
Type of hood without duct
Modern models of this technique can be performed in two versions:
- Horizontal electric range hood.This option will be an excellent solution for a small kitchen, where all the walls are hung with kitchen cabinets.
- Vertical hood. Such appliances are better suited for large kitchens.
Important! Also, the device can be mounted or built-in. The latter option is very convenient, since at the time when the hood is off, it is completely invisible. The device is hidden in a wall cabinet located above the hob. A telescopic hood is one of the options for the integrated technology.
Noise level
In all models, the noise level must be indicated on the packaging at maximum hood operation. It is better to choose a device with reduced noise during operation, with an indicator of up to 40 dB.
Additional device features
The more the device has functional modes, the more precisely its operation parameters are set and the better the result of air purification. Often the air purifier is equipped with lighting lamps.
Important! If you need the stove to be lit to the maximum, then choose a hood model that has lamps all around. The most economical are halogen and neon lamps.
Also, modern devices, in addition to their direct functions, can be equipped with devices that allow you to listen to music and play video.
to contents ↑How to install the hood?
We recommend that you pay special attention to the installation of the hood, because if installed incorrectly, the device will not be able to perform its functions well. Depending on which stove is placed in your kitchen, some hood installation parameters will change.
Important! All the nuances associated with the installation of the hood, we examined in detail in our separate publication. View them by clicking on the link "Installing the hood in the kitchen".
Gas stove
The hood must be mounted at a height of at least 70-80 cm from the hob of the gas stove.
Important! When installing the device below the prescribed distance, it can affect the burning fire of a working stove. And with a large power output, even extinguish the flame.
Electric stove
The hood should be placed at a height of 60 cm from the hob. Do not mount the hood above 65 cm, since its action then will not be so effective.
to contents ↑Important! If necessary, the distance can be reduced to the required, since there is no risk associated with extinguishing the fire in the case of electric stoves.
The basic rules for the full use of electric hoods for the kitchen
In order for your kitchen equipment, which monitors clean air and the absence of an unpleasant odor, to work efficiently, you should know a few simple rules regarding its operation:
- The hood should be turned on about a minute before cooking begins.
- Do not turn off the appliance immediately after cooking. Let the device work for another 10 minutes after turning off the stove. So you remove residual aromas from the room.
- Active carbon filter elements must be changed every 2, 3 or 4 months, depending on the intensity of cooking.
- Clean filters from grease and steam at least once every two months. This will help the hood to work fully.
- Provide a good supply of fresh air to the kitchen. It will prevent the occurrence of low pressure in the room, which affects the operation of the hood.
Stock footage
An electric range hood is a very useful purchase, because it removes unpleasant odors, prevents the formation of condensation in the room and the deposition of particles of fat on furniture. The useful information provided in this article will help you choose the right model, which will delight you with good work and maximize your direct responsibilities.