What is a Convertible Range Hood?

A range hood is a necessary and important part of any kitchen. These vent hoods are designed to help improve the air quality of your kitchen in meaningful ways that you and your family will appreciate.

The basic concept behind a range hood is simple - it helps to filter kitchen air while you cook. As most people know, cooking can often result in smoke, steam, or even grease that can fill a kitchen with less-than-pleasant odors and contaminants.

Whether it's smoke particles from oil on a hot pan, hot steam, or even grease, the air quality of your kitchen is affected every time you cook. A range hood is a device that helps to filter out these elements and keep your kitchen feeling healthy and clean.

Importance of Kitchen Ventilation

While it may not be 'dangerous' to use your kitchen without a hood range or some kind of air filter, the truth is it can have a negative impact on not only your experience but your kitchen itself. Not only will grease, smoke particles, or steam make you uncomfortable in the sanctity of your kitchen, but they can also negatively impact every surface they come in contact with.

Over time, damage can occur from too much exposure, and this can have a depreciating effect on the quality of your kitchen. The good news is that if you love to use your kitchen, there are a variety of different kinds of hood ranges that can help you experience all the joys of cooking with clean, filtered air!

If you have been curious about how you can use hoods to improve the quality of air in your kitchen, here is everything you need to know to find the perfect range hood!

Types of Convertible Range Hoods

Convertible range hoods offer a high level of air filtering power; however, as their name implies, they can convert between the duct and ductless operating styles. Convertible range hoods work by being able to integrate into the ductwork to push air out of your home or circulate that air back into your kitchen.

Range hoods, in general, are going to be air filters that help maintain a high degree of air quality inside a kitchen. These ventilation tools are typically placed directly over a stove in order to intercept possible air pollutants best as they arise.

In general, there are three major types of hoods, ducted range hoods, ductless range hoods, and convertible range hoods. All three types of vented range hoods have unique advantages that can fit almost any kitchen layout. There are also ductless models that can fit under a cabinet.

Let's take a closer look at ductless range hoods vs. ducted range hoods.

Ducted vs. Ductless

As the name implies, a ducted range hood and a ductless range hood are unique depending on the integration of the hood into the existing ductwork system of the home. For ducted range hoods, these filtering systems can capture air directly over a stove top and filter it through the home's duct system. These filters typically do not need a charcoal filter, are usually quieter than a ductless range hood, and because of the integration into the ventilation system, are considered to be the most effective.

As the name implies, a ducted range hood is going to be dependent on being able to utilize the given ventilation system of the home. If this is not an option, ductless models offer a great solution. These are typically dependent on some kind of filter, and they circulate the air back into the room they are mounted in. These are a great and affordable option for anyone who may not be able to install ducted range hoods in their interior wall.

Under-Cabinet vs. Wall-Mounted

The second most common variation of range hoods is the under-cabinet vs. the wall-mounted models. Most people are instantly familiar with these models as they are very common. The undercabinet utilizes a smaller range hood that can be placed directly above a stove top despite the presence of a cabinet. The mounted models will attach to the wall directly and do not need a cabinet installed.

Island Mount

For kitchens that have a stove surface that is not adjacent to a wall but rather in the middle of the room, an island mount range hood is a great option. These range hoods hang from the ceiling and can be centrally located throughout a kitchen. They do not need to attach to a wall or cabinet to operate.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Convertible Range Hood

So now that we know a little bit more about this kind of venting system, the real question is -what kind of range hood is right for you? Here are some important factors you should consider when purchasing a convertible range hood!

Size and Power

Range hoods come in a variety of shapes and sizes which can make them ideal for almost any kitchen. If you are looking for a ducted range hood, you will be limited to where you can place it as it must integrate with your ductwork to push the air outside the home. With ductless range hoods, you can find a wider variety of sizes. Since these rely on filtering systems to circulate air back into the kitchen, they are typically able to fit in small places and be installed in most locations.

A convertible range hood brings the best of both worlds and offers more flexibility. It can be installed in various locations and offer the same kind of power that a ducted hood can without integration into the home's ventilation system.

Noise Level

A noticeable difference between ducted or ductless range hoods is the noise level. A ducted range hood will be able to locate the fan inside the ventilation system. So while most ducted hoods are more powerful than a ductless hood, the ductwork allows the fan to be further away from the stove, making them quieter.

Conversely, ductless hoods, which are still efficient options for removing smoke and other irritants from the kitchen, are going to be louder due to the more centralized location of the fan.

Filter Type

Most ductless range hoods use charcoal filters to do the heavy lifting of air filtering. A ducted model will direct air into the ductwork leading to an outside ventilation source. The ductless hoods will circulate air back into a kitchen, while the ducted hoods will push it out of the home.

Lighting Options

Certain types of vents can allow for integrated lighting, such as under-cabinet models that typically do come with a light. However, this is specific to the manufacturer. There are a wide variety of hoods to choose from, and most range hoods do have a lighting option.

Style and Design

Another positive note about finding the right range hood is that there are a variety of styles to choose from. It's not only important that you get the kind of vent hood that fits your needs, but it should also fit your kitchen. From stainless steel to rustic bronze finish, ensuring you find the right style for your kitchen is not hard.

Installation and Maintenance of Convertible Range Hood

A range hood will make a noticeable impact on the quality of your kitchen. Maintenance is minimal, and the hoods are designed for easy cleaning. However, it should be noted that installing a vent may be difficult. While some people enjoy the challenge of installing their appliances, the potential cost of an installation done wrong is something to keep in mind.

If you are looking to install a new range hood in your home, don't hesitate to reach out to experts for help and opinions to ensure you don't damage your kitchen space.

Seeking Professional Help?

The good news is that whether you want to replace an old range hood, switch to a convertible model, or install one for the first time, you don't have to do it alone. Sources for finding a highly-rated professional near you include Better Business Bureau, Angie's List, and Yelp. Read reviews carefully and check for licensing when hiring a professional to work inside your home.

We would love to help ensure that you get the perfect hood for your kitchen and that it's appropriately installed so you can have the best air quality possible.