Under Cabinet Vs Built-In Range Hoods: Which Are Better?

Designing or remodeling a kitchen involves numerous considerations. While you may be focused on aesthetics, such as the right colors and finishes, there are practical and functional aspects to consider as well. This includes how to provide ventilation in your kitchen whenever you're using your cooktop. Two options to address this problem include either an under-the-cabinet or built-in range hood, with each choice having its own set of pros and cons to consider.

Whether you have a gas, electric, or induction cooktop, it's important to have ventilation above it. If you do not currently have a range hood, you might notice key things that are happening in your kitchen that indicate poor ventilation. Not only does a range hood remove potentially harmful pollutants from the air in your kitchen, but it can also draw out steam that could lead to condensation. When it comes time to choose a range hood, the ultimate choice depends on the size and current layout of your kitchen, as well as your budget. Some designers believe built-in range hoods are the way to go from an aesthetic standpoint, but under cabinet range hoods still have their place in your kitchen and are more affordable overall.

Among the greatest advantages of under cabinet range hoods are their overall affordability. Not only are they less expensive than their built-in counterparts, but they are also easy to install. When following the manufacturer instructions, you may even be able to install an under cabinet range hood as an add-on feature for an already completed kitchen. What's more, these types of range hoods are better options if you do not have much space over your cooktop, and you also do not want to remove the cabinets overhead and lose out on storage.

Still, there are also some downsides to consider with under cabinet range hoods. The first is the lack of aesthetics, especially if you're remodeling to sell your home. Some potential home buyers may prefer built-in range hoods as more contemporary kitchen features. Additionally, some models can be noisier than built-in ranges, which can be even more problematic when it is in use next to another common area, such as a living room. Also, when considering how to pick the best under cabinet range hood for your kitchen, you will need to choose carefully based on the dimensions of your cabinets. This fact could reduce the number of viable options available.

If you have more money in your budget, you might consider installing a built-in range hood instead of an under cabinet version. Also known as insert range hoods, these are built into your cabinets rather than being attached underneath them. Not only are these types of range hoods considered more designer-friendly, but they also have more options for customization since you do not have to match the size to fit underneath existing cabinetry. What's more, built-in range hoods are noted as being quieter and more powerful than under cabinet range hoods, so you're less likely to experience any lingering fumes or steam during and after cooking.

Still, know that these options come with a higher price tag. Aside from the cost of the range hood itself, you will also likely need to hire someone to install it for you, as built-in ranges are not considered DIY-friendly. Another final consideration is maintenance, as you'll want to take steps to make your range hood last. No matter which type of range hood you choose, it's important to clean the exterior and filters on a regular basis to help maintain its functionality and to prevent possible fires from grease buildup.