Match the hood size to your cooktop width

A range hood must be at least as wide as your cooktop, and ideally 1 to 3 inches wider on each side. If your cooktop is 30 inches wide, your hood should be 30 to 36 inches. A hood that is too narrow will not capture steam and cooking odors effectively, even if the fan is powerful. A hood that is much wider than your cooktop wastes money and takes up more wall space without added benefit.

Measure the width of your cooktop from the outside edge of one burner to the outside edge of the opposite burner. Write this number down before you shop. If you are replacing an existing hood, measure the opening in your cabinet or wall where the old one sits — that opening size limits what you can install without major renovation.

Key Takeaways

  • Your hood width should match your cooktop width plus 1 to 3 inches, and the depth must fit your cabinet or wall opening without cutting into cabinetry.
  • Ducted hoods (venting outside) remove heat and moisture more effectively than ductless hoods, but require a vent opening in your wall or roof.
  • Fan power is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM); most home kitchens need 300 to 600 CFM, and gas cooktops require higher CFM than electric ones.
  • Noise level matters during daily use — look for hoods rated 60 decibels or lower if you want quiet operation.
  • Stainless steel and painted steel are the most durable finishes for kitchen humidity; avoid bare aluminum in wet environments.

Decide between ducted and ductless based on your wall structure

A ducted hood vents air outside through a duct that runs through your wall, ceiling, or cabinet. It removes heat, moisture, and odors completely from your kitchen. A ductless hood (also called recirculating) filters the air and pushes it back into the kitchen. Ducted hoods perform better, but they require an opening in your exterior wall or roof, which may not be possible in your home.

If you have an exterior wall behind or near your cooktop, a ducted hood is the better choice. If your cooktop is on an interior wall, or if cutting through your wall is not practical, a ductless hood is your only option without major construction. Ductless hoods work best in smaller kitchens and are quieter than ducted models, but they do not remove humidity as effectively and require filter changes every 1 to 3 months.

Check the CFM rating for your cooktop type

CFM stands for cubic feet per minute — it measures how much air the fan moves. A hood with too little CFM will not clear smoke and steam fast enough. A hood with excessive CFM wastes energy and creates unnecessary noise.

Most electric cooktops need 300 to 400 CFM. Gas cooktops produce more heat and moisture, so they typically need 400 to 600 CFM. If your cooktop has six or more burners, or if you cook with high heat frequently, aim for the higher end of that range. If you cook occasionally and have a small electric cooktop, 300 CFM may be enough. Check the CFM rating on the hood's product label or specification sheet — it is usually listed near the fan motor details.

Measure the depth and height of your installation space

The hood must fit physically into the space where you plan to install it. Measure the depth of your cabinet or wall opening — most hoods are 16 to 20 inches deep, and they must fit without blocking cabinet doors or hitting the wall behind them. Measure the height of the space above your cooktop where the hood will sit. Most hoods sit 28 to 36 inches above the cooktop surface; check your hood's manual for the recommended height, as this affects how well it captures steam.

If you are installing a hood under a cabinet, make sure the cabinet is deep enough to accommodate the hood's depth. If the hood is too deep, it will stick out past the cabinet edge and look awkward. If the hood is too shallow, it may not have enough internal space for the fan and filter, which reduces performance.

Compare noise levels for your comfort

Range hoods produce noise from the fan motor and air movement through the duct. Noise is measured in decibels (dB). A hood rated at 60 dB is about as loud as normal conversation. A hood at 70 dB is noticeably loud and can make it hard to hear someone across the kitchen. A hood at 50 dB or lower is quiet enough to use without raising your voice.

If you cook frequently or have an open kitchen where the hood noise carries into living spaces, choose a hood rated 60 dB or lower. If you cook occasionally and do not mind some noise, a louder hood may be acceptable. Ductless hoods are generally quieter than ducted ones because they do not have to push air through a long duct. Check the noise rating on the product specification sheet — it is usually listed in the technical details section.

Select a finish that resists kitchen moisture and staining

Stainless steel is the most popular finish for range hoods because it resists rust and is straightforward to wipe clean. It does show fingerprints and water spots, so you may need to clean it regularly if that bothers you. Painted steel (usually black or white) is durable and hides fingerprints better than stainless steel, but paint can chip if the hood is bumped or scratched. Aluminum is lightweight and inexpensive, but it can corrode in humid kitchens and is harder to repair if damaged.

Avoid bare aluminum or uncoated metals in kitchens with high humidity or near a dishwasher, where moisture and salt spray can cause corrosion. If you have hard water or cook with a lot of steam, stainless steel is worth the extra cost because it will last longer and look better over time.

Evaluate filter type and replacement cost

Ducted hoods use baffle filters or mesh filters. Baffle filters are curved metal pieces that separate grease from air; they are more effective at trapping grease and can be washed in the dishwasher. Mesh filters are flat metal screens; they are cheaper but require more frequent cleaning and do not trap as much grease. Both types need cleaning every 1 to 3 months depending on how much you cook.

Ductless hoods use charcoal filters in addition to a mesh or baffle filter. The charcoal filter removes odors but cannot be cleaned — it must be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Check the cost of replacement filters before you buy the hood. Some brands charge $30 to $50 per filter, which adds up if you cook frequently. A hood with washable filters will cost less to maintain over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my cooktop is in an island and I cannot vent outside?

You will need a ductless hood or a downdraft ventilation system that pulls air down through the cooktop surface. Downdrafts are less effective than overhead hoods but work better than ductless models in island kitchens. Some downdraft systems can be vented outside if you have access to the space below the cooktop.

Can I install a range hood myself, or do I need a professional?

Ductless hoods are usually straightforward to install if you have basic electrical knowledge and can mount the hood securely to the wall or cabinet. Ducted hoods require cutting a hole in your wall or roof and running ductwork, which is more complex. If you are not comfortable with electrical work or cutting into your home's structure, hire a professional installer.

How often do I need to clean the hood filters?

Mesh and baffle filters should be cleaned every 1 to 3 months, depending on how much you cook. Wipe grease buildup with a damp cloth or wash in the dishwasher. Charcoal filters in ductless hoods cannot be cleaned and must be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Check your hood's manual for the manufacturer's recommended cleaning schedule.

Does a more expensive hood always work better?

Not necessarily. A $300 hood with the right CFM for your cooktop will work better than a $800 hood with too little CFM. Price often reflects brand reputation, noise level, and finish quality rather than performance. Focus on matching the CFM to your cooktop type and size, and choose a finish and noise level that fit your needs and budget.

What is the difference between a range hood and a microwave with a built-in vent?

A microwave vent is much weaker than a dedicated range hood and does not remove as much steam and odor. Microwaves typically have 200 to 300 CFM, while range hoods have 300 to 600 CFM or more. If you cook frequently or use high heat, a dedicated range hood will perform much better than a microwave vent.