A ductless range hood recirculates air instead of venting it outside

A ductless range hood (also called a recirculating hood) pulls cooking smoke and steam through filters, cleans the air, and pushes it back into your kitchen instead of running ductwork to the outside. You install it the same way you would a vented hood—mounting it to the wall or underside of a cabinet—but you skip the step of running ducts through your walls or roof. The trade-off is that it removes odors and some grease but not moisture as effectively as a vented hood, and you'll replace the filters more often.

This is the right choice if you rent, live in a condo where exterior venting isn't allowed, or can't run ductwork through your walls without major renovation. It's also simpler to install yourself if you're comfortable with basic tools and electrical work.

Key Takeaways

  • Ductless hoods mount to the wall or cabinet the same way vented hoods do, but without the ductwork step.
  • You'll need a power outlet within reach of the hood, or you'll need to run a new circuit if one doesn't exist.
  • Most ductless hoods use charcoal filters that trap odors and grease filters that catch particles; both need regular replacement.
  • Installation takes two to four hours for a confident DIYer; if you're unsure about electrical work, hire an electrician for that part only.
  • Ductless hoods are quieter than vented models but work best in kitchens with good overall ventilation.

Gather the right tools and materials before you start

You'll need a drill with bits, a level, a stud finder, a tape measure, a screwdriver set, and a wrench or socket set that fits your hood's mounting hardware. Have a helper on hand—range hoods are heavy and awkward to hold while you fasten them. Wear safety glasses and work gloves.

Check your hood's manual for the exact fasteners it requires. Most ductless hoods come with mounting brackets, screws, and sometimes shims (thin wedges that level the hood if your cabinet or wall is uneven). If your hood needs to be hardwired to a circuit, you may need electrical wire, a junction box, and wire connectors—but if a standard outlet is within reach, you can plug it in instead.

Measure and mark the mounting location

The hood should sit 24 to 30 inches above your cooktop, measured from the cooking surface to the bottom of the hood. Use your tape measure and mark this height on the wall or cabinet with a pencil. Most hoods are 30 inches wide, so center it over the stove. Use a level to draw a horizontal line where the top of the mounting bracket will sit.

Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs or cabinet frame behind your mounting location. You want to screw the brackets into solid wood, not just drywall. Mark the stud locations with a pencil. If the studs don't line up with your hood's bracket holes, you may need to use toggle bolts or heavy-duty anchors instead—check your manual for weight limits.

Install the mounting brackets and find the hood

Drill pilot holes (small starter holes) at each bracket location to prevent the wood from splitting. Then screw the mounting brackets into the studs or solid cabinet frame using the fasteners that came with your hood. Use your level to make sure the brackets are perfectly horizontal before you tighten them all the way.

With your helper, lift the hood onto the brackets and align the mounting holes. Slide it into place and fasten it with the bolts or screws provided. Tighten everything firmly but don't over-tighten, which can crack the hood's casing. Step back and check that the hood is level and sits at the correct height above the stove.

Connect the power and test the motor

If a standard outlet is within 6 feet of your hood, plug it in. If not, you have two options: run an extension cord (not ideal for permanent installation, and a fire hazard if the cord is damaged), or have an electrician install a dedicated outlet or hardwired circuit near the hood. Most building codes require a dedicated 120-volt circuit for a range hood, so check your local code before you decide.

Once power is connected, turn the hood on and listen for the motor to run smoothly. Check that air is being pulled through the filter and pushed back into the kitchen. If the motor doesn't run, check that the outlet has power and that any switches on the hood itself are in the on position. If it still doesn't work, turn off the power and check the manual's troubleshooting section.

Install and maintain the filters

Ductless hoods use two types of filters. The grease filter (usually aluminum mesh or baffle-style) catches cooking particles and sits closest to the stove. The charcoal filter sits behind it and absorbs odors. Both come with your hood or are sold separately.

Slide the grease filter into its slot first, then the charcoal filter behind it. Make sure both are seated firmly. The grease filter should be washed or replaced every one to three months, depending on how much you cook. The charcoal filter lasts longer—usually six to twelve months—but can't be washed; when it stops absorbing odors, you replace it. Check your manual for the exact replacement schedule and part numbers.

Seal gaps and finish the installation

If there are gaps between the hood and the wall or cabinet, caulk them with paintable silicone caulk to prevent grease from seeping behind the hood. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger and let it dry according to the product instructions.

Wipe down the hood's exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust from installation. Turn it on one more time to confirm everything is working. If your hood has a light, test that too. You're done—your ductless hood is ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a ductless hood if I have a gas stove?

Yes, but a ductless hood is less effective for gas cooking because it doesn't remove the moisture and heat that gas produces. A vented hood is better if you have the option. If you must use ductless, make sure your kitchen has good cross-ventilation (open windows or a separate exhaust fan) to prevent moisture buildup.

Do I need an electrician to install the hood?

If a standard outlet is within reach, you can plug it in yourself. If you need a new outlet or hardwired circuit, hire a licensed electrician. Electrical work varies by local code, and mistakes can be a fire hazard. The electrician's cost is usually $150 to $300 and is worth the safety.

How often do I replace the charcoal filter?

Most charcoal filters last six to twelve months, but this depends on how much you cook and what you cook. If odors start lingering in your kitchen even with the hood running, it's time to replace the filter. Check your hood's manual for the exact part number and cost.

Will a ductless hood get rid of cooking smells?

It will reduce them, but not eliminate them the way a vented hood does. Charcoal filters trap odors, but they work best in kitchens with good air circulation. If smell is your main concern, a vented hood is more effective.

What if my hood is too heavy to hold while I fasten it?

Get a second person to help, or use a temporary support—a 2x4 board propped under the hood while you tighten the brackets. Once the brackets are find, remove the support. Never try to install a heavy hood alone.