Learn key terms related to kitchen range hoods. This glossary will help you understand the technical specifications, installation features, and functions to choose the perfect model for your kitchen. For detailed information about a specific model, always refer to the official user manual provided by the manufacturer, such as the iktch range hood manuals.
Choosing a kitchen range hood is a decision that affects the air, atmosphere, and comfort of your kitchen. Understanding the differences between types of ventilation, noise levels, and filtration features is key to making an informed decision.
Glossary of Terms for “Range Hoods”
Range Hood — a device installed above a cooktop to remove smoke, steam, odors, and grease from the kitchen air. The main types are ducted (exhaust) and ductless (recirculating).
Airflow Performance (Power) — measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h) or cubic feet per minute (CFM). It indicates the volume of air a range hood can process per hour. The higher the rating, the more powerful the unit.
Recirculation Mode (Ductless) — an operating mode where air is not vented outside but is passed through a system of filters (grease and carbon) and returned to the kitchen. Used when installing a duct is not possible.
Ducted Mode (Vented) — an operating mode where air from the kitchen is completely expelled outside through a system of ventilation ducts. This is a more effective method for removing contaminants.
Noise Level (dBA) — a measure of the range hood’s operating loudness, measured in decibels (dBA). The lower the noise level, the more comfortable the use. It is usually specified for different fan speeds.
Grease Filter — a removable metal (often aluminum) filter that traps grease particles, preventing them from settling inside the motor and ducts. It is washable and requires regular cleaning.
Charcoal Filter (Carbon Filter) — a replaceable filter used in recirculation mode to absorb odors and fine particles. It is not washable and requires periodic replacement, as indicated in the range hood’s PDF manual.
Duct — a pipe (usually plastic or flexible aluminum) through which air is vented from the kitchen to the outside. The duct diameter must match the range hood’s exhaust outlet.
Control Type — the method for controlling the range hood’s functions. Types include push-button, touch sensor, slider, or remote control. Touch controls are considered more modern and hygienic.
Hood Lighting — built-in lamps (most commonly halogen or LED) that illuminate the cooktop. LED lighting is energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Hood Width — the front width of the range hood, which should match or slightly exceed the width of the cooktop for effective capture of contaminated air.
Intermittent Mode — an automatic function where the hood periodically turns on at a low speed to maintain basic air circulation and freshness in the kitchen.
Boost Mode (Turbo) — the maximum fan speed, used to quickly remove large amounts of smoke or steam. It usually has a higher noise level.
Delay Shut-Off — a timer that allows the hood to continue operating for a set period (e.g., 10-15 minutes) after being turned off to remove residual odors and steam.
Activated Carbon Filter — a filter element that uses activated carbon to adsorb odor molecules. Its effectiveness depends on the quality of the carbon and timely replacement, the schedule for which is specified in the range hood user manual.
Aperture (Capture Area) — the area through which the range hood draws in air. The design and size of the aperture directly affect capture efficiency.
Installation Kit — a set of mounting hardware and other elements necessary for installing the range hood. Its contents may vary, so always check the contents against the list in the range hood installation guide.
Backdraft Damper (Non-Return Valve) — shutters or a flap installed in the hood’s exhaust outlet or within the duct. It prevents backdraft and cold air from outside entering when the hood is off.
Energy Efficiency — a rating that reflects how much electricity a range hood consumes to move a certain volume of air. More energy-efficient models help reduce electricity bills.
Remote Control — a wireless remote control for convenient operation of the range hood from anywhere in the kitchen.