Rangehoods

We’re reporting on 60cm and 90cm wall canopy models, undermount or integrated models, and retracting or slide-out rangehoods.

All were tested in the same lab using the same test method – so the results can be compared across all models.

To make things fair, the 60cm models were tested over a 60cm cooktop and the 90cm models over a 90cm cooktop. On average, the wider 90cm rangehoods were more effective than the 60cm hoods. If you have the space, think about installing a 90cm model – even if your stovetop is the narrower 60cm width.

We tested all the rangehoods so they ducted outside, and if applicable in recirculating mode. In ducted mode, the steam (which can be greasy from frying) and smells are blown outside. In recirculating mode, air is passed through carbon or charcoal filters and recirculated back into the kitchen. This eliminates cooking odours and grease, but not moisture – which goes back into your kitchen. Installing in recirculating mode is a second-best option.

In each mode we tested how well they removed steam from the room – first with 2 saucepans of simmering water and then with 4. We tested their performance with the fan on high and on low.

We also measured noise levels with the fan on high and on low. Next we checked how easy it was to get at and clean the mesh filter, replace a carbon or charcoal filter (only applicable for recirculating mode), use the controls and clean the exterior surfaces. Finally, we assessed how well each rangehood lit the stovetop.

Our testing shows ducted rangehoods perform better and we only recommend rangehoods that meet our criteria in ducted mode. Always install them to be ducted if you can.

When you install a rangehood, it can be installed in ducted or recirculating mode. In our product database, each model is listed by the mode it was tested in. This means most models have 2 sets of test results because they can be used in both modes.

In ducted mode the steam (which can be greasy from frying) and smells are blown outside. It is now illegal to duct into the ceiling cavity, because the build-up of grease can be a fire hazard and moisture can cause condensation and rot.

In recirculating mode, air is passed through a carbon or charcoal filter and recirculated back into the kitchen. This eliminates cooking odours and grease, but not moisture, which goes back into your kitchen, so it’s a second-best option.

Installing in recirculating mode is cheaper as no ducting is required, but you may need to buy a recirculating kit. You’ll also need to replace the carbon or charcoal filters – how often depends on how much and the type of cooking you do. Cooking that produces mainly steam means your filter will last longer than it will with high-fat cooking that produces strong smells. Manufacturers recommend replacing the filter every three to six months.

Rangehoods perform better in ducted mode, but for some people ducting won’t be an option (you live in an apartment or installation in ducted mode is too expensive).

Tip: When installing a rangehood it’s best to use rigid ducting. Flexible ducting has ridges which can trap air and impede performance.

• Size: With 2 pots on your cooktop, most hoods will cope pretty well, and won't let steam escape at the sides. However, most models won't cope very well with 4 pots of simmering water, particularly if they're only 600mm wide. Fixed hoods often fail to cover the front hobs.
  The bigger the rangehood, the more effective it will be at removing steam and odours. If you have the space, consider fitting a 900mm-wide range hood over a 600mm cooktop. The extra width on each side will catch more steam.
• Hood shape: Ideally the hood should extend over the hobs, so that all escaping steam is captured when the hobs are in use.
• Filters: All rangehoods have a filter to trap oil and grease. Reusable metal filters can usually be put in the dishwasher. The carbon filters for recirculating mode need to be replaced regularly and are an ongoing cost – check that they’re readily available, too.
• Fans: Efficiency is not necessarily related to the number of fans. Some single-fan models can out-perform two-fan models.
• Noise: Fans can be quite noisy on full speed, and there's a tendency for noise to increase with performance. A range of fan speeds is therefore useful: you don't need the thing whooshing away if you're just scrambling some eggs. Noise levels can get up to 60 or even 69 decibels (dBA).
• Lighting: For visibility over the cooking area, two bulbs are better than one. Check that the bulbs are easy to replace – some aren’t.
• Exterior: The rangehood should be easy to clean and have no nooks or crevices where dirt and grease can build up. Fixed rangehoods with a smooth underside are generally easier to clean than retractable ones.
• Maintenance: Rangehoods are not maintenance-free. You need to remove and wash the filter, clean the body of the hood and occasionally change a light bulb. You should be able to perform most of these tasks easily – if there's a problem, contact your distributor.
• Controls: It's pretty standard for hoods to have their controls in an easy-access position on the front. However, some models have sliding switches that are a little tricky to set in the right position. Touch controls are easier to use.