Table of Contents
So, you’ve decided to purchase a range hood for your home. Congratulations! It’s a great first step in turning your kitchen from just a place where you cook into the kitchen of your dreams.
But for some, the process of purchasing one can seem like an overpowering task. Have no fear, with the help of our range hood buyers' guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to purchase the perfect range hood for your kitchen!
Mounting Style
The first thing you should decide when purchasing a range hood is what mounting style you will need.
Wall Mount
For a majority of kitchens, you’re going to be looking at a wall-mounted range hood. These hoods are mounted directly to the wall over your range.
Usually, these hoods have ducting that leads the smoke and fumes directly from the hood to the outside of your home, but in some options, they’re set up to recirculate the fumes back inside the home after they’ve been filtered. These types of models are known as convertible, recirculating, or ductless range hoods. Shop Wall Mount Range Hoods
Island Mount
If your range is located on a kitchen island, you’ll want to purchase an island mount range hood. These hoods are usually incredibly similar in looks and function as a wall-mounted range hood, but they’re finished on all four sides, including the chimneys, and feature two-button panels on both sides of the hood for added convenience.
Under Cabinet
Let’s say you’re purchasing a range hood for your kitchen remodel. You previously had an over-the-range microwave, but your new kitchen has a microwave drawer, so you’d like to replace the spot with a range hood. In this case, your best bet is an under-cabinet range hood.
An under-cabinet range hood allows you to keep your existing cabinetry and not have to add a chimney. This is a great choice if you’re looking to cut back a bit of work, especially if you’re able to use your existing ductwork from your old over-the-range microwave!
Shop Under Cabinet Range Hoods
Range Hood Inserts
The last mounting style in our guide is a range hood insert. Inserts are the perfect choice for those who are looking for unlimited options when it comes to customizing the look and style of their range hood. With an insert, you can purchase a hood that fits the exact style, finish, and design that you want in your kitchen, and then place the insert inside the custom hood. Similar to putting a case on your phone, the style is all your own with the power you need tucked safely inside! Shop Range Hood Inserts
If you’d like a deeper look into range hood mounting styles, including ceiling mount range hoods and downdraft range hoods, check out our blog about the 7 best types of range hoods, where we go into greater detail on each mount!
Size
Range hood size is one of the most important things in our Range Hood Buyers Guide. Unlike some of our other buyer points, size is something you don’t have much of a free choice on. If you’re purchasing a wall-mounted range hood. Your range hood should be at least the same size as your range, if not at least a couple of inches longer on each side. So if you have a 36” free-standing range, you’d want to purchase at least a 36” range hood. But for island range hoods, we recommend at least 6” larger in width for the island (so the island hood can efficiently catch all of the smoke from the burners instead of going around the hood)
Power Needs
How much power will your range hood need? This is something you should definitely consider when picking your range hood. Range hoods come in a couple of different power levels. Our most popular range hoods come with a 400 CFM motor, but if you’re looking for something with a little more power, we advise looking for something with 700 CFM.
Also, if you’re worried about the noise levels of your range hood, don’t forget that remote blower range hoods are always an option! Remote blower hoods hold the same CFM as their counterparts, but the motor is installed in your home’s attic to help dampen the overall sound of the range hood.
If you're unsure about what CFM you need, we have a very simple CFM guide for range hoods to help you. Shop Remote Blower Range Hoods
Choose Your Design & Finish
You’ve picked your mounting style, and you found your correct size; now it’s time to choose your design and finish! This is the part where you really get to choose the perfect range hood for your home.
Stainless Steel
There are a lot of different designs and finishes to choose from, and ultimately, your decision will come down to the overall style you’re trying to accomplish in your kitchen. One of the most popular finishes is stainless steel due to its timeless appeal and ability to match all kitchen styles.
Stainless steel is perfect if you’re going for a modern look in your kitchen. It’s wildly popular and is sure to make your kitchen shine! There are endless styles and designs available in stainless steel; a few of our favorites are the ZLINE’s KB Range Hood or the ZLINE 587 Range Hood..
ZLINE Convertible Vent Wall Mount Range Hood in Stainless Steel (KB)
$323.99
$359.99
The ZLINE KB is a professional wall-mount stainless steel range hood with a modern design and built-to-last quality, making it a great addition to any kitchen. This hood's high-performance, 400 CFM 4-speed motor will provide all the power for quiet… Read More
Shop Stainless Steel Range Hoods
Another great benefit of stainless steel hoods is that some are even outdoor-approved for use with barbecue grills! These are great for keeping the smoke from your grill away from your outdoor kitchen. The ZLINE hoods we carry are rust and weather-resistant, ensuring longevity while they’re outdoors.
Black Stainless Steel
Black stainless steel is another option that’s commonly available on range hoods. These finishes tend to be very similar to stainless steel as far as quality and ease of cleaning, while bringing a more dark, neutral feel to your kitchen.
Shop Black Stainless Range Hoods
Satin Stainless Steel
Some companies, like ZLINE, make exclusive versions of stainless steel finishes as well. ZLINE offers a Satin Stainless Steel finish on many of their popular designs. This unique design is a non-directional brushed stainless steel finish that has fingerprint and scratch-resistant properties. You can learn more about Satin Stainless Steel here.
ZLINE added to the Satin Collection in 2025 by introducing Black Satin Stainless Steel, which offers the same aesthetic benefits as black stainless steel but with the added durability of Satin Stainless.
Shop Satin Stainless Range Hoods
Glass
Glass range hoods are another great choice for modern kitchens. Glass range hoods usually have a sleek glass base and a stainless steel chimney. While they can be quicker to show grease, one benefit of a glass range hood is how incredibly easy they are to clean!Shop Glass Range Hoods
Copper
Copper has been used to style kitchens for quite some time, and range hoods are no exception to this! Copper range hoods can add a nice touch of color and work well in both modern and rustic or farmhouse-style kitchens. With most modern copper range hoods, you get a stainless steel range hood that has copper baked into the finish. This helps guarantee that your range hood is built with quality materials that are sure to last in your kitchen!
Wooden
The final style in our range hood buyer's guide is wood. A wood range hood is an absolute must if you’re trying to accomplish a rustic or farmhouse look for your kitchen. Our wide selection of ZLINE designer finishes includes many different types of wood, like walnut and antigua, as well as a variety of wood stains such as white, grey, rustic dark, and even unfinished, which allows you to customize your kitchen by painting the hood to what matches their style.
Accessories
Accessories aren’t usually a make-or-break item for your range hood, but they can certainly take your hood to the next level!
Range Hood Chimney Extensions and Short Kits
Chimney extensions and short kits aren’t needed in every kitchen, but it’s still something worth mentioning. Short kits are used to shorten the chimney length of your range hood. You’ll find this in a smaller kitchen where the ceiling is lower than average.
An extension is used in the opposite scenario, where the ceiling is higher than your typical kitchen. One important thing to note: Double-check that the short kit or extension will work for your hood. A lot of manufacturers build these to work with specific models.
Crown Molding
A crown molding is a great accessory for your range hood. Crown moldings are used at the top of the range hood’s chimney and bring a molding design around where the hood meets your ceiling to give it a more concealed and blended look.
CrownSound™
If you’re really looking to spice up your range hood, check out ZLINE’s exclusive CrownSound™. CrownSound™ brings the party into your kitchen with integrated Bluetooth speakers. Easily connect your phone to your range hood and enjoy your favorite music or podcast while you cook. You can learn more about CrownSound™ in our featured blog.
We hope our Range Hood Buyers Guide has helped you narrow down the process for the perfect range hood for your home. Still have questions? Please reach out to us! Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer any questions that you may have, and we’re ready to help you pick the best range hood for your kitchen!
Contact Us
FAQs
Why do I need a range hood in my kitchen?
A range hood helps remove smoke, grease, odors, heat, and airborne particles created while cooking. Proper ventilation improves indoor air quality, protects cabinetry and walls from buildup, and makes your kitchen more comfortable and enjoyable to use.
What type of range hood mount do I need?
The correct mount depends on where your cooktop or range is located. Wall mount hoods are best for ranges placed against a wall. Island mount hoods are designed for cooktops located in kitchen islands. Under-cabinet hoods fit beneath existing cabinetry, often replacing over-the-range microwaves. Range hood inserts are used inside custom-built or decorative hood enclosures.
What is the difference between ducted and ductless range hoods?
Ducted range hoods vent air outside through ductwork and provide the most effective ventilation. Ductless or recirculating range hoods filter air through charcoal filters and recirculate it back into the kitchen, making them ideal for homes without access to exterior ducting.
How do I choose the correct range hood size?
Your range hood should be at least as wide as your cooktop or range. For wall-mounted hoods, matching the width is typically sufficient. For island-mounted hoods, it’s recommended to go at least 6 inches wider than the cooktop to better capture smoke and fumes.
How much power does a range hood need?
Range hood power is measured in CFM, or cubic feet per minute. A common guideline is 100 CFM for every linear foot of cooking surface. Standard kitchens often work well with 400 CFM, while larger kitchens, gas ranges, or high-BTU cooking may require 700 CFM or more.
Are higher CFM range hoods louder?
Higher CFM hoods can be louder, but noise levels also depend on motor design and installation. Remote blower range hoods reduce kitchen noise by placing the motor in the attic or outside the home while maintaining strong ventilation performance.
What finishes are available for range hoods?
Popular finishes include stainless steel, black stainless steel, Satin Stainless Steel, glass, copper, and wood. Stainless steel is timeless and versatile, while finishes like black stainless, copper, or wood allow for more design expression and customization.
Are stainless steel range hoods suitable for outdoor kitchens?
Yes, some stainless steel range hoods are outdoor-approved and designed to withstand weather, moisture, and grease from grills. Always confirm that the hood is rated for outdoor use before installation.
What is Satin Stainless Steel and how is it different?
Satin Stainless Steel is a fingerprint-resistant, non-directional brushed finish that hides smudges and scratches better than traditional stainless steel. It offers a softer, more durable appearance and requires less maintenance.
What accessories might I need for my range hood?
Common accessories include chimney extensions for high ceilings, short kits for low ceilings, crown molding for a finished look where the hood meets the ceiling, and optional features like integrated lighting or Bluetooth speaker systems.
Do I need a chimney extension or short kit?
You may need a short kit if your ceiling is lower than standard or a chimney extension if your ceiling is higher than average. Always verify compatibility with your specific range hood model before purchasing accessories.
What is CrownSound™ and how does it work?
CrownSound™ is an integrated Bluetooth speaker system built into the crown molding of select range hoods. It allows you to stream music or audio wirelessly without taking up counter space or adding separate speakers to your kitchen.
Can I install a range hood myself?
Some homeowners can install a range hood themselves, especially under-cabinet or replacement installs. However, ductwork, electrical connections, or complex installations may require professional help to ensure safety and proper performance.
How do I know which range hood is right for my kitchen?
Choosing the right range hood depends on your kitchen layout, cooking style, ceiling height, ventilation options, and design preferences. Considering mount type, size, CFM, and finish together will help ensure the best fit for both performance and aesthetics.
Who can help if I’m unsure what to choose?
If you’re uncertain, speaking with one of our knowledgeable appliance or ventilation specialists from The Range Hood Store can help you evaluate your kitchen and select the best range hood for your needs, ensuring long-term satisfaction and proper ventilation performance.
