Range hoods are crucial in any kitchen, and if you’re installing one, knowing the correct clearance is key.
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The distance between your range hood and cooktop should be between 20 to 36 inches, varying by cooktop type—electric models can be closer, while gas models require more space.
We’ve researched and answered common questions about range hood installation, including specific clearances and positioning tips for cabinets. Keep reading for more detailed information!
How Much Space Between Hood And Range?
You’ve probably seen them in many kitchens, but range hoods are one of the underrated and typically overlooked appliances in the kitchen.
Despite being installed after more common items like refrigerators and ovens, range hoods are crucial for ventilation. They minimize odor build-up and draw out moisture, steam, and smoke while cooking.
A range hood in the kitchen must be properly installed for it to work as intended.
It needs to have enough clearance above the cooktop to allow the hood to draw out the smoke and moisture without affecting the cooked food.
It should also be high enough not to fan the flames of the gas range, which can cause an even bigger fire.
You can decide the height of the range hood based on what kind of cooktop you have. Cooktops that discharge grease or smoke, like gas cooktops and barbecues, should have higher clearance.
Electric cooktops discharge less smoke and hot air, so most homeowners choose to get smaller hoods and install them a little lower.
Types of Range Hoods and Heights
There are several kinds of available range hoods that you can install in the kitchen. Here are some examples and the clearances you will need to install them away from a gas cooktop.
If you have an electric cooktop, you can opt to install the range hoods at the same height as gas cooktops or as recommended by the manufacturer. This is about 20- to 28-inch clearance.
Stainless Steel Range Hood
These range hoods are popular in homes and professional settings.
For the hood to properly ventilate the area, it should be installed 30 inches above the range. Stainless steel hoods are easy to install and very easy to clean.
Vent Hood/Insert Liner
Some homes prefer hiding their range hoods under the cabinetry, and you should look for a vent hood or insert liner.
Since the cabinetry is typically made of wood, this hood should be installed at a maximum height of 36 inches to prevent damage to the surrounding material.
Under-cabinet Hood
These are the traditional range hoods that are easy to find and install.
Under-cabinet range hoods can be installed with a height clearance of 30 inches from the top of the cooktop, and this should be enough to draw the moisture and grease splatters in a typical home setting.
Chimney-style Hood
These hoods are also quite common, and just like under-cabinet hoods, they can be installed at a height of 30 inches away from the cooktop.
These hoods can be a little harder to install because they will need additional brackets to support the hood and the chimney.
18″ Canopy Wall Hood
This is the most common range hood used for professional gas cooking ranges.
Because of the heat and smoke that professional ranges emit, these hoods should be installed at a height of 30 to 36 inches above the range.
Island Range Hood
Island range hoods are usually freestanding and require the ceiling to support the hood instead of the wall or cabinetry.
A wood-style island range hood needs a 36-inch clearance from the top of the cooktop to prevent damage to the material.
You’ll also need the island range hood to be a little bigger than your range to cover the area properly.
How Big Should A Hood Be For A Range?
Most range hoods are 24, 30, or 36 inches wide, with 60-inch models found in professional settings. For the home, though, a small, efficiently-sized range hood should do well.
Generally speaking, a range hood should be the same size as your cooktop so that it can properly capture the smoke, odor, and grease from the burners and the food you are cooking.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Island range hoods are uniquely designed for cooktops built on a kitchen island.
Because the hood will be working on more space, it is highly suggested that you get an island range hood that is a little bigger than your cooktop.
For example, a 30-inch gas cooktop should have a 36-inch island range hood to get the best results.
What Should Be The Distance Between The Range Hood And The Cabinets?
A lot of people make mistakes when they install their range hoods. Sometimes, it’s too far from the cooktop; sometimes, it can be too close (and this is dangerous).
Range hoods are typically installed on the wall or under cabinetry, which is typically made of wood.
When installing a range hood, it is important to also give it some space to allow it to ventilate.
For most kitchens, you can leave a 1/2-inch to 1-inch space between the range hood and the cabinets during installation.
What Happens If The Hood Is Too Close Or Too Far?
One of the most important aspects of range hood installation is the distance from the top of the cooktop.
Installing the hood too far away can cause smoke and fumes to escape into the kitchen, causing grease splatters.
You’ll also likely ruin your motor because it will try to compensate for drawing in the smoke by using higher fan speeds.
Along with this, the high fan speed of your range hood will also suck in the cold air or warm air of the room, which might cost you more in heating and cooling bills.
Conversely, placing the hood too close can damage it due to excessive heat and increase the risk of fire from the gas cooktop.
This is because of the range hood’s motorized fan—if it is too close, it will fan the flames of the gas cooktop, causing sudden flare-ups.
The grease in the surrounding areas can also contribute, so avoid installing the hood too close to the range.
Proper clearance ensures efficient smoke capture and safety, preventing costly issues and maintaining kitchen air quality.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, don’t forget the range hood! They’re very important in keeping your kitchen ventilated and clean, plus they also make the place look very professional.
Make sure to install the range and hood properly to prevent untoward issues from happening, and you’ll surely have a great time cooking in your kitchen.
Trying to figure out what to do with your range hood? Look no further because we’ve got some articles that might help you:
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