Keys to choosing the best extractor hood for your kitchen

There are a lot of different types of extractor hoods. We don’t want you to get lost among all those technical and aesthetic characteristics, so we’re going to give you the keys to selecting the best extractor hood for your kitchen. Let’s go!

Technical aspects to take into account in an extractor hood

Let’s see the technical characteristics you will need to consider, and some tips to guide you in your choice:

The power and extraction capacity

You can calculate the one you need by multiplying the square meters of your kitchen by its height, and then multiplying the result by 12 (revolutions/hour). That figure will be the capacity,  in cubic meters, that the motor should have.

Silence please!

The noise level is extremely important! Especially if you have an open-plan kitchen/living area. We recommend something below 60 decibels.

Size matters

Make sure that the width of the hood covers the width of the cooking area, so it absorbs as much as possible. Much better if it’s a bit bigger.

And the height also matters

Neither too low (it will only absorb the central fumes) nor too high (it will not absorb efficiently). The ideal height is at a distance of between 65 and 75 centimeters from the hob.

Yes to filters!

Fortunately, thanks to filtering hoods with air recirculation, the placement of the hood is no longer restricted by the need to have a nearby vent. We can say goodbye to those tubes running through the wall, to expel the dirty air. Filtering hoods absorb the steam, gases and fumes, and return clean air to your kitchen. 

Non-return

Another aspect you need to consider is a non-return valve which prevents the smells and fumes from coming out when it is switched off.

A hood for each kitchen

Without forgetting all those technical aspects, we must not overlook the aesthetic considerations. We also want your kitchen to look good!

Decorative or wall-mounted hoods

There are thousands of models and it is the most popular type of extractor hood. Some are more decorative, some are more minimalist, and they are all attached to the wall and are completely in view.

Integrated hoods

These are also pretty common, especially in smaller kitchens, because they are hidden behind a cabinet front, thus reducing the visual impact.

Ceiling-mounted hoods

These extractor hoods are fitted into the ceiling and they are very, very discrete. They are ideal for kitchens in which the cooking area is on an island. However, they require a lot of power, which can make them noisy.

Island hoods

This type of hood is also for kitchens with islands. They are placed just above the island and they usually have designs which maintain coherence with the furniture and decoration.

Hoods integrated into the countertop

The top option for minimalist kitchens or ones without wall cabinets. These hoods are also hidden from view, but in this case inside the countertop. 

You can find two types: retractable ones, which rise up or disappear simply by pushing a button; and those which are integrated into the hob, a discrete solution which enables you to make the maximum use of storage space.