Kitchen Renovation — FAQ
Can I install a ducted range hood without existing ductwork?
Installing new ductwork requires cutting cabinet bottoms and routing through walls or ceilings to exterior vent caps. Budget $150-300 for professional installation if you're not comfortable with carpentry and sheet metal work. Convertible hoods offer temporary ductless operation while you plan ducting.
What's the minimum CFM I need for a gas stove?
Calculate 100 CFM per 10,000 BTUs of total burner output. A standard 40,000 BTU gas range needs at least 400 CFM. For frequent high-heat cooking, add 50% more capacity. Our tests show 375 CFM handles moderate gas cooking, but serious chefs need 600+ CFM.
How often should I clean range hood filters?
Clean aluminum mesh filters monthly in hot soapy water or dishwasher top rack. Baffle filters need cleaning every 2-3 months. If you cook daily with oil, double the frequency. Clogged filters reduce airflow by up to 60% and strain the motor, leading to premature failure.
Are ductless range hoods worth buying?
Ductless hoods recirculate air through charcoal filters, removing odors but not heat or humidity. They're only suitable where ducting is impossible. Performance drops 30-40% compared to ducted operation. For serious cooking, ducted is always superior and worth the installation effort.
What size ducting is best for these hoods?
Most 30-inch hoods use 6-inch round ducting or 3.25x10-inch rectangular. Never reduce duct size—this chokes airflow and increases noise. Use smooth metal ducting, not flexible foil, which creates turbulence. Keep runs short with minimal bends for maximum efficiency.
Can I replace a microwave hood with a dedicated range hood?
Yes, and you should. Dedicated range hoods outperform microwave combos by 50-100% in CFM and capture efficiency. You'll need a 15-amp outlet and may have to patch the cabinet bottom. The ventilation improvement justifies the swap for anyone who cooks regularly.
