Choosing the right vent hood is a crucial part of any kitchen renovation. A vent hood not only keeps your kitchen air fresh by removing smoke, steam, and cooking odors, but it also protects your cabinetry and surfaces from grease buildup. With so many options available, how do you choose the perfect vent hood for your kitchen remodel in Portsmouth, NH? 

Have you been wondering:

• What size vent hood should I get for my stove?

• How many CFMs do I need for my kitchen vent hood?

• What is the difference between ducted and ductless vent hoods?

• What is a makeup air system, and why might I need it for my vent hood?

• How much does it cost to have a vent hood installed?

• Are there quiet vent hoods with high CFMs?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting a size that matches your cooking habits to deciding between ducted and ductless models. Keep reading to find detailed answers to these questions and more, ensuring you make the best choice for your kitchen renovation!

What size vent hood should I get for my stove?

Choosing the right size vent hood is crucial for proper ventilation. The size of the vent hood you need primarily depends on the size of your stove or cooktop. A general rule of thumb is that your vent hood should be at least as wide as your stove. For most standard stoves, which are 30 inches wide, a 30-inch vent hood will suffice. However, if you have a larger stove or a professional-grade range, you may want to consider a wider hood to ensure maximum coverage and efficiency.

Should my vent hood be the same width as my stove or larger?

While matching the width of your vent hood to your stove is standard, there are cases where a larger vent hood is beneficial. If your stove is positioned against a wall or in a corner, a vent hood that is 3 to 6 inches wider than the stove can capture smoke, steam, and odors more effectively. For example, if you have a 30-inch stove, a 36-inch vent hood would provide better ventilation, especially for heavy-duty cooking.

How high above the cooktop should the vent hood be installed?

The installation height of your vent hood affects both its efficiency and your comfort while cooking. Typically, vent hoods should be installed 24 to 30 inches above an electric cooktop and 30 to 36 inches above a gas cooktop. This range ensures that the vent hood effectively captures cooking emissions without interfering with your cooking space. Installing it too high can reduce its effectiveness, while installing it too low can make it uncomfortable to use your cooktop.

How much airflow does my vent hood need to keep my cooking from smoking up the house?

One of the most important parts of sizing a vent hood is selecting a model with the right amount of airflow. Too little airflow, and cooking foods like steak or bacon will leave your whole house smelling like food. Too much, and your home’s heating and cooling efficiency could suffer.

In order to select a hood that best meets your needs, we first have to talk about how vet hood airflow is measured: CFM.

What are CFMs?

CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute, a measure of how much air a vent hood can move. It's an important factor in determining how effective your vent hood will be at removing smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen. The higher the CFM rating, the more air the vent hood can pull through its ventilation system.

How many CFMs do I need for my kitchen vent hood?

The number of CFMs you need depends on your stove's size and the type of cooking you do. A basic guideline is to have at least 100 CFMs for every 10 inches of stove width. For example, a 30-inch stove would require a vent hood with a minimum of 300 CFMs. 

If you have a gas stove, add 1 CFM for every 100 British Thermal Units (BTUs) your stove produces. Higher CFMs are recommended if you cook frequently, especially using high-heat methods like frying, grilling, or wok cooking.

Does the type of cooking I do affect how many CFMs I need?

Absolutely! If you primarily use your stove for boiling pasta or simmering soups, a vent hood on the lower end of the CFM range may suffice. However, if you regularly sear meats, fry foods, or use a wok, you'll need a more powerful vent hood with higher CFMs to effectively remove smoke, grease, and odors.

How do I calculate the right CFMs based on my cooktop size and cooking habits?

To calculate the appropriate CFMs for your vent hood, consider both your cooktop size and cooking style. Here's a simple formula:

1. Electric Stove: Multiply the stove width by 10 (e.g., 30 inches x 10 = 300 CFMs).

2. Gas Stove: Calculate the total BTUs of your stove and divide by 100. For example, if your stove has a total of 60,000 BTUs, you need at least 600 CFMs.

If you frequently cook with high heat or produce a lot of smoke and steam, consider increasing the CFMs by 100-200 to ensure adequate ventilation.

As a rule of thumb, a 300-400 CFM hood will be sufficient to exhaust steam (cooking pasta or making soups), while a 600-700 CFM hood will be needed to exhaust smoke (frying chicken or grilling steak) in an average kitchen with a 30-inch range.

What happens if my vent hood has too few CFMs?

If your vent hood doesn't have enough CFMs, it won't effectively remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen. This can lead to lingering smells, excessive moisture, and grease buildup on surfaces. Over time, this can affect indoor air quality and even cause damage to your kitchen.

Is there such a thing as too many CFMs for a vent hood?

Yes, it's possible to have too much ventilation. A vent hood with excessively high CFMs can create negative air pressure in your home, potentially affecting your heating and cooling systems. This is particularly true for tightly sealed, energy-efficient homes. Too many CFMs can also require a makeup air system to balance the air pressure, which adds complexity and cost to the installation.

Are there building codes in Portsmouth, NH, that affect the size of the vent hood or the CFMs required?

Yes, local building codes in Portsmouth, NH, have specific requirements for kitchen ventilation, particularly regarding high-CFM vent hoods. If your vent hood exceeds a certain CFM threshold (typically 400 CFMs), local codes require the installation of a makeup air system to maintain balanced air pressure. It's always a good idea to consult with your remodeling contractor or local building department to ensure compliance with local regulations.

What is a makeup air system, and why might I need it for my vent hood?

A makeup air system is designed to replace the air that is exhausted by your vent hood. When a high-CFM vent hood pulls large amounts of air out of your kitchen, it can create negative pressure in your home, starving your home of fresh air. A makeup air system introduces fresh air to balance the pressure, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining indoor air quality. If your vent hood exceeds 400 CFMs, a makeup air system is often required by code.

How do I know if my kitchen requires a makeup air system?

If your vent hood has a CFM rating of 400 or more, you'll likely need a makeup air system to comply with building codes and ensure safe operation. Your remodeling contractor can assess your kitchen's ventilation needs and help determine if a makeup air system is necessary for your specific setup.

What types of vent hoods are available, and which is best for my kitchen design?

There are several types of vent hoods to choose from, including:

• Under-Cabinet Hoods: Installed beneath cabinets and are ideal for smaller kitchens with limited space.

• Wall-Mounted Hoods: Mounted on the wall above the cooktop, often serving as a focal point in the kitchen.

• Island Hoods: Suspended from the ceiling over a kitchen island, providing ventilation for island cooktops.

• Insert or Custom Hoods: Installed inside a custom-built canopy or cabinetry, allowing for a seamless look.

• Downdraft Hoods: Installed behind or beside the cooktop and pull air downward, suitable for kitchens with design constraints.

The best type of vent hood for your kitchen depends on your kitchen layout, cooking habits, and design preferences.

What is the difference between ducted and ductless vent hoods?

• Ducted Vent Hoods: Vent cooking emissions outside your home through ductwork, making them more effective at removing heat, moisture, and odors.

• Ductless Vent Hoods: Use filters to capture grease and odors before recirculating the air back into your kitchen. These are ideal for homes where exterior venting isn't possible.

Ducted vent hoods are generally more effective, but ductless hoods can be a good alternative in situations where installing ductwork is impractical.

Is a ducted vent hood more effective than a ductless one?

Yes, ducted vent hoods are typically more effective because they vent air directly outside, removing heat, moisture, odors, and pollutants from your kitchen. Ductless vent hoods rely on filters to clean the air before recirculating it, which is less effective at removing heat and moisture. However, ductless hoods can still be a suitable option in situations where installing ductwork is not feasible.

How difficult is it to install a ducted vent hood in an existing kitchen?

Installing a ducted vent hood in an existing kitchen can be more challenging than installing a ductless model, especially if there is no existing ductwork. The installation may involve cutting through walls, ceilings, or cabinetry to run the ductwork to the exterior of your home. In some cases, this can be a complex project that requires professional expertise to ensure proper installation and compliance with building codes.

Do I need to hire a professional to install my vent hood?

While some homeowners may be comfortable installing a vent hood themselves, hiring a professional is often recommended, especially for ducted installations. A professional installer can ensure that the vent hood is properly mounted, the ductwork is correctly routed, and all building codes and regulations are followed. This helps ensure the safety and efficiency of your kitchen ventilation system.

How much does a vent hood cost?

The material and installation costs for vent hoods can vary widely depending on the requirements and existing conditions of the home. Let’s break it down and take a detailed look at these costs, to give you a better idea of what you can expect for your kitchen renovation in Portsmouth, NH.

How much should I budget for a quality vent hood?

The cost of a vent hood varies widely depending on its type, size, features, and brand. Basic under-cabinet hoods start at around $200, while high-end wall-mounted or island hoods can cost $6,000 or more. 

If you are looking for a high-quality vent hood without the designer price tag, $1,200 - $2,000 is generally a reasonable budget for a quality-grade stainless steel vent hood in the New Hampshire seacoast. 

Ducted installations may require additional costs for ductwork and professional installation. When budgeting for a kitchen renovation in Portsmouth, NH, it's essential to factor in the cost of a quality vent hood that meets your kitchen's ventilation needs and design preferences.

How much does it cost to replace a vent hood?

Replacing an existing vent hood with a new one is typically a straightforward task for professionals, but the cost can vary based on the type of vent hood and the conditions in your kitchen. The labor costs to replace a vent hood generally range from $500 to $3,000. This price range depends on factors like the type of vent hood being installed, the complexity of the removal and installation process, and whether any adjustments need to be made to the existing ductwork or electrical wiring.

For example, replacing a standard under-cabinet vent hood might be on the lower end of this range, while installing a more complex wall-mounted or island vent hood could push the cost closer to $3,000. If the existing vent duct is in poor condition and needs to be replaced, this will also add to the cost.

How much does it cost to have a new vent hood installed?

If your kitchen does not currently have a vent hood and you're looking to install one, the costs can vary significantly depending on whether you choose a ductless or vented model.

• Installing a Ductless Vent Hood: If you're installing a ductless vent hood where one didn't exist before, the costs typically range between $1,000 and $3,000. Ductless hoods do not require exterior venting, which simplifies installation. However, the costs can still vary depending on factors like the type of hood and the complexity of electrical work required.

• Installing a Vented Hood: Installing a vented hood in a location that did not have one previously is more complex and generally costs between $2,500 and $5,000. This price does not include the cost of a makeup air system, which may be required for high-CFM vent hoods. The biggest cost factor in this installation is the vent itself. If you need to run new ductwork through finished spaces, costs can escalate, sometimes reaching as high as $10,000 in complex installations.

How much does a makeup air system cost?

When installing a high-CFM vent hood (400 CFMs or more), building codes often require a makeup air system to maintain balanced air pressure in your home. The cost of installing a makeup air system ranges from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on the system's complexity and the existing conditions in your home. Factors influencing the cost include the type of system, the extent of modifications needed to your HVAC system, and whether any structural adjustments are necessary to accommodate the system.

In some cases, installing a makeup air system can be relatively simple and cost-effective. However, in more complex scenarios, such as when the system requires extensive ductwork or alterations to your home's infrastructure, costs can approach the higher end of this range.

How loud will my vent hood be?

Vent hood noise is measured in sones, with lower numbers indicating quieter operation. The noise level of a vent hood depends on its CFM rating, fan speed, and design. Higher CFMs generally produce more noise, but many modern vent hoods are designed with sound-dampening features to reduce noise. When shopping for a vent hood, look for models that provide the desired CFMs with the lowest possible sone rating for a quieter kitchen environment.

Are there quiet vent hoods with high CFMs?

Yes, there are quiet vent hoods designed to provide high CFMs without excessive noise. These models often feature advanced engineering, sound insulation, and multiple fan speeds to minimize noise levels. Look for vent hoods labeled as "ultra-quiet" or with a sone rating of 4 or lower to enjoy powerful ventilation without the added noise.

Do I need a vent hood with additional features, like lights or heat sensors?

Many vent hoods come with additional features, such as built-in lighting, heat sensors, and variable fan speeds. Lighting can enhance visibility while cooking, and heat sensors can automatically adjust the fan speed based on the cooking temperature. These features can add convenience and safety to your kitchen, so consider your cooking habits and preferences when selecting a vent hood.

How do I maintain and clean my vent hood?

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your vent hood functioning efficiently. For ducted hoods, clean or replace the filters periodically to prevent grease buildup. For ductless hoods, replace the charcoal filters as needed. Wipe down the hood's exterior and interior surfaces regularly with a degreaser to remove cooking residue. Following the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines will help extend the life of your vent hood and ensure optimal performance.

Are there energy-efficient vent hoods available?

Yes, many manufacturers offer energy-efficient vent hoods designed to minimize energy consumption while providing effective ventilation. Look for vent hoods with an ENERGY STAR certification, which indicates they meet energy-efficiency standards. Features like LED lighting and variable fan speeds can also contribute to energy savings.

Can I use the vent hood to ventilate the entire kitchen space, or is it only for the cooking area?

A vent hood is primarily designed to ventilate the cooking area by capturing smoke, steam, and odors directly from the cooktop. While it helps improve overall kitchen air quality, it should not be relied upon to ventilate the entire kitchen space. For comprehensive ventilation, consider supplementing your vent hood with additional exhaust fans or an HVAC system.

What materials and finishes are available for vent hoods?

Vent hoods are available in various materials and finishes, including stainless steel, copper, glass, and custom wood. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its durability and sleek appearance, while copper offers a warm, rustic look. Glass hoods can add a modern, minimalist touch. When choosing a finish, consider your kitchen's overall design and select a vent hood that complements your cabinetry, appliances, and decor.

Conclusion: Choosing the right vent hood for your kitchen remodel in Portsmouth, NH

Choosing the right vent hood is an essential aspect of your kitchen renovation in Portsmouth, NH. By understanding the various factors involved—from size and CFMs to installation and design—you can select a vent hood that not only enhances your kitchen's functionality but also complements its aesthetic. Proper ventilation ensures a clean, comfortable cooking environment, protecting both your health and your kitchen.

If you're planning a kitchen renovation and need expert guidance on choosing the right vent hood or other aspects of your design, contact Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling. Our team of professionals is here to help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a beautifully remodeled kitchen!