Do range hoods have to be vented outside?

If you’re upgrading your kitchen or tackling a remodel, you’ve probably heard mixed opinions on range hoods. Do they really have to vent outside, or can you get by with a ductless option? The answer depends on a few factors, and we’re here to break down everything you need to know.

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Ventilation options for range hoods

Range hoods are essential for removing smoke, odors, and airborne grease from your kitchen, but not all range hoods need to be vented to the outside. While vented range hoods are highly effective at removing pollutants, there are other options that can work well depending on your kitchen layout, building structure, and budget. 

There are two main ventilation types for range hoods: vented (also known as ducted) and recirculating (or ductless). Each option has its pros and cons, and some homes or kitchens are better suited for one type over the other. 

Vented outside

A vented (or ducted) range hood channels the air outside of your home, which is highly effective for removing heat, moisture, grease, and odors from your kitchen. It helps all unwanted particles leave the space to improve indoor air quality. Venting a range hood to the outside does require proper ductwork and may involve significant installation effort.

Through the ceiling

One option for venting to the outside is through the ceiling. With this method, ductwork runs vertically up and out through the roof. This is common to see in island range hoods or kitchens without an exterior wall nearby. Ceiling venting requires roof work and is often more complex, but it can be a great solution for certain kitchen layouts.

Through the wall

If your range is against an exterior wall, you can vent directly through the wall, which is often the easiest and most cost-effective method. Wall venting uses minimal ductwork, which can help keep installation costs down while removing polluted air.

Through the floor

Venting through the floor is less common, but it’s an option for unique kitchen layouts or when ceiling and wall venting aren’t feasible. Floor-vented hoods require ducts that run through the floor joists to reach the exterior of the home. This approach can be more complex and may require professional installation for proper venting and structural integrity.

Recirculating

Recirculating range hoods, also known as ductless hoods, filter the air and release it back into the kitchen. They’re typically equipped with charcoal or carbon filters that trap odors and airborne grease but don’t remove heat and moisture. Recirculating hoods are ideal for spaces where exterior venting isn’t possible, such as in apartments or interior kitchen setups, but they require regular filter replacement.

Read more: 7 Space-Saving Tips For Small Kitchens

Ducted vs. ductless range hoods: Which is better?

Choosing between a ducted and a ductless range hood depends on your kitchen’s layout, your cooking habits, and what you’re looking to achieve in terms of air quality. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and drawbacks of each type to help you decide what’s best for your space.

Ducted (vented) hoods

Pros

• Highly effective odor, smoke, heat and moisture removal by venting the air directly outside
• Better for heavy cooking that produces a lot of smoke, grease, or steam (like frying, grilling, or high-heat cooking)
• Improved indoor air quality by directly removing pollutants rather than filtering and recirculating them

Cons

• Installation can be costly and complicated, especially if your kitchen isn’t near an exterior wall
• Limited to areas where exterior venting is possible, making them less versatile in terms of placement within the kitchen
• Higher initial cost due to the complexity of installation and the need for ducts

Ductless (recirculating) hoods

Pros

• Easier and cheaper installation since they don’t require ductwork or access to an exterior wall
• Flexible placement since they don’t rely on exterior venting
• Less maintenance, since there aren’t any ducts leading outside

Cons:

• Limited smoke and moisture removal since they only recirculate the air
• Regular charcoal or carbon filter replacement is needed to stay effective
• Lower indoor air quality

Read more: When Is It Time to Buy a New Appliance vs. Fix It?

Venting range hood FAQs

Get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about vented range hoods.

Can I convert a ductless range hood to a ducted one?

Yes! Many range hoods are convertible, meaning they can switch from ductless (recirculating) to ducted (vented) with the right parts. You’ll need access to an exterior wall, ceiling, or roof for ducting, and may need to remove or adjust the recirculating filters. Consult your hood’s manual to see if a ducted conversion kit is available for your model.

Can I install a range hood without a vent?

Yes. Ductless or recirculating range hoods are designed for situations where exterior venting isn’t possible. These hoods use filters to capture grease and odors, then recirculate the filtered air back into the kitchen. They’re ideal for apartments or interior kitchens but don’t remove heat and humidity as effectively as vented hoods.

Should I replace a recirculating range hood with one that vents outside?

If your kitchen layout allows, replacing a recirculating range hood with a ducted model can greatly improve ventilation. Ducted hoods are more effective at removing smoke, grease, moisture, and odors, which can improve indoor air quality, especially in kitchens that see heavy cooking. Installation may require wall or ceiling modifications for ductwork.

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Additional information

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