Range hoods, also known as kitchen hoods or vent hoods, are undoubtedly the most common appliance of every modern kitchen in Raleigh, NC. Not only do they make the kitchen look just that extra bit appealing, but they also ensure that the air is unadulterated as they remove odors and toxic gases that are expelled into the air.
What we (and other Raleigh homeowners) love the most about range hoods is that they will ensure that you do not get steamed, while cooking. They are designed to absorb the excess heat and steam that is released during cooking. This feature will ensure that a comfortable, pleasant environment is maintained in the kitchen, irrespective of how many dishes are being prepared!
That being said, range hood installation is a highly complex process, not something you can do yourself. If you want flawless installation, bring in a proficient general contractor in Wake County, NC.
Continue reading to know some of the best practices of installing a range hood.
Related Read: How to Remodel Your Kitchen?
What are the Different Types of Range Hoods?
When installing a range hood, the most crucial decision you have to make is whether to go for a ducted or ductless range hood. Let’s look at the difference between the two types so you can make a more informed decision.
Ducted range hood
A ducted or vented range hood, as the name suggests, is connected to a duct. Through the conduits, the air particles travel from your kitchen to the outdoors. These range hoods can be commonly found in commercial kitchens where large amounts of smoke and fumes emanate due to constant cooking.
But they are not “exclusively” designed for commercial kitchens. So if there is enough space in your residential kitchen, you can go ahead and opt for a ducted range hood.
The ducted range hoods are more efficient because they come with built-in mesh filters that keep your kitchen free from odors and heat. Another benefit of installing a ducted range hood is that it offers you a noise-free environment as the exhaust is installed far from the stove.
Not to mention, a ducted range hood will make a stylish addition to your kitchen and boost the curb appeal of your home. In fact, ducted range hoods are among those major kitchen remodels with the highest ROI. (Source: The home improvement projects with the biggest ROI)
Ductless range hood
To save yourself from the hassle of ductwork, you can go for a ductless range hood. It can also be a perfect choice for you if a ducted range hood cannot fit in your small kitchen. Especially if you live in a condo or apartment, this can be a lifesaver.
Ductless range hoods are outfitted with powerful exhaust fans that help filter the air of your kitchen. In addition, they have more than one charcoal filter, which removes all toxic gases and fine particles from the air. Once the air is free of odors and pollutants, it is released back into your kitchen.
These range hoods are even much more affordable and versatile than the ducted range hoods. Besides, the installation of a ductless range hood is way easier.
Installation Tips
Ducted range hood
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions of duct size and type. Failure to follow the instructions will lead to overheating problems; your system may also not work efficiently.
- Go for rigid ducting as flexible ducting will hamper the proper travel of air particles from your kitchen to the outdoors.
- You do not need to use additional charcoal filters in a ducted range hood.
- Never terminate the duct in an enclosed space, like a crawl space or attic. This is against North Carolina’s Mechanical Code. As per the code, “range hoods shall discharge to the outdoors through a duct.” (Source: Chapter 15: Exhaust Systems, 2018 North Carolina Residential Code) If the warm air and dust particles are vented out to your attic, it will also lead to mold growth.
- If your duct exits through a side wall, make sure to end it with duct tape. But if you have roof-mounted ducts, then terminate them with a U-shaped elbow. This will enable the air to exit quickly but prevent snow and rain from entering the ducts.
- The size or the diameter of the duct caps should be the same as that of the duct.
- Install an airflow controller, also called a backdraft, at the end of the duct. It will prevent the outside air from back-flowing into the duct. It will also keep birds and insects away from the duct.
Ductless range hoods
- Separately order charcoal filters to install in the range hood.
- As the charcoal filter gets clogged, make sure to change them after every six months. This will help maintain the efficiency of your range hood.
- Naturally, the air from the ductless range hoods is not required to discharge to the outdoors. The NC Mechanical Code also states this clearly.
Additional Installation Tips to Remember
- If your range hood has come with exposed wires, you will have to hardwire it. But if it has come with a plug, you have to plug it in.
- Unless the system has exposed wires, never cut the plug. Removing the plug to hardwire is not a good installation practice.
- Ensure that every major kitchen appliance, including your new range hood, has a dedicated electrical line. This will save you from major problems and prevent voltage drops.
Need Professional Help for Range Hood Installation?
Are you looking for a general contractor in Wake County, NC, to install your range hood? Then, Glasgow Design Build has you covered! We are a general contracting firm in Raleigh, NC. Our skilled workers will help you upgrade your kitchen and install a new range hood in the most hassle-free manner.
You can rely on us for all other kinds of home renovations in Raleigh, NC, be it building a porch or deck or finishing your basement. We will deliver you the best quality results in the shortest time possible.
To leverage our services, get in touch with us at (919) 244-2979 or contact us online.