Choosing a kitchen exhaust fan may seem like a minor matter, but homeowners and builders wishing to provide additional value to their houses should consider their options carefully. Fans come in several configurations: a) re-circulating range hoods (with and without charcoal filters), b) range hoods with integrated fans that exhaust to the outside, c) microwave ovens with integrated re-circulating or exhaust fans, and d) commercial-style fans with the blower motor mounted on the roof. Each has their advantages and challenges.
The re-circulating range hood is usually the least expensive and the least effective. These hoods will filter out airborne grease (keeping the walls cleaner) and, if equipped with a charcoal filter, will reduce some cooking smells. This type of fan does nothing to remove heat or, in the case of gas cooking, does nothing to remove the microscopic particulate matter (soot) and carbon monoxide. However, this fan is better than nothing and may be your only option for a tight budget or a retrofit which does not allow for outside venting.
Range hoods come in many forms – some look like wall art -- with a wide and wild range of prices. Vented to the outside, these exhaust fans not only filter out grease but will remove heat, steam, smells and combustion gasses from the kitchen area. Microwave ovens with integrated exhaust fans are becoming quite popular. Not only does this configuration allow for convenient, space-saving placement of a vital kitchen appliance, but it is cost effective too. A microwave/fan combination can cost no more than – and sometimes less than – a range hood alone. Most microwave/fan combos come with options for either re-circulating or outside exhaust depending on your application. Some people prefer the aesthetics of the range hood over the microwave combo, but there is little other advantage.
Finally, there is the commercial style, roof mounted exhaust fan. These fans are generally more powerful and quieter. However, they are a little more complex to install. They must be mounted on the roof with proper flashing, usually require wider or specialized ducting, and have to be wired back to a switch near the cooking area. Also, be sure to consult with a qualified air conditioning and heating specialist when installing these systems. If the air flow is not balanced properly, these fans can sometimes be powerful enough to measurably disrupt your heating and air conditioning efficiency. Also, a home with a fireplace should have it's own fresh air supply otherwise the more powerful roof mounted systems might suck fireplace combustion gasses into the home. Prices for this type of installation vary, but the motor itself can cost as little as $200. Costs for ducting, wiring and a passive (no motor) hood can boost your total cost to $1000, but a professional cook will love you for the extra effort.
There are a few things to look out for when installing any new kitchen exhaust fan or inspecting an existing installation: 1. Exhaust fans should never be routed into the attic. Grease and steam can cause damage to insulation and roofing materials. Combustion gasses might be spread throughout the house. In rare circumstances, a fire on the stove top might also spread to the attic unless the fan exhausts to the outside. 2. Every fan should have a grease filter and this filter should be cleaned with hot water and soap once every three months or as needed. Be sure to check that the filter is fitted snuggly into its receptacle otherwise grease will escape into the ducting and create a fire hazard. 3. As mentioned earlier, make sure the fan is not so powerful that it disrupts your air conditioning flow or draws fireplace combustion gasses into the home. A proper installation will have some type of back flow prevention which will stop outside air (and small animals!) from entering your home. Consideration of these simple guidelines can provide a safe, effective and cost effective addition to any kitchen. Visit kitchen exhaust fan or stainless steel countertops for further information.
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