Range Hoods

Posted by Ray / Categories kitchen and range hoods

It is not widely known but range hoods are one of the most important, yet often overlooked, appliances in the kitchen. They are also a stunning addition to the kitchen and can give it a very stylish, modern designer look. Like any modification to the kitchen adding a range hood can also increase the value of your house as it can be a center piece that people see when they first enter the room. They are available in a multitude of different materials to nicely set of the range, cooker top, kitchen units and all the other appliances.

Range Hood Styles

The most common hood found in the kitchen is the modern looking stainless steel range hood, which are excellent as they resist corrosion and are easy to look after. For a more traditional looking kitchen it is possible to have a custom made hood made out of copper or wood. These are usually more expensive but they can last you for years and actually be passed down through the family. Copper range hoods are one of my favorites, especially in a log cabin style rustic kitchen. They can come engraved in wonderful forest or hunting scenes and go very well in rural properties or homesteads.

When designing a new room, kitchen range hoods are one of the most important features and often a focal point. In fact they can make or break the appearance and enhance the overall style quite considerably. It is range hoods
credit: byronv2
important, therefore, that the size fits in with the overall size of the kitchen so as not to look too out of place and the finish should also complement the finish of the units and work surface. It would look quite odd to have an ultra modern range hood in a traditional, country style kitchen. The hood needs to be big enough to overlap the sides of the range or cooking surface.

Most hoods you find are usually wall mounted although if you have a kitchen island it is possible to find a specific island range hood which can be suspended from the ceiling. With an island model you will need some way of running the  pipe from the hood to the outside world through an external wall. This is not a drastic job to undertake however, and is usually a relatively easy job for any experienced builder. Another alternative, if this is out of the question, is to by a non vented  hood. These pass the air through a filter which removes the toxins and particles and then recirculates the air back into the kitchen. The only drawback is that they require a little more maintenance as the filters have to be removed and regularly cleaned.

The most useful tool for finding a good hood is the computer. Looking online at manufacturers and wholesalers websites is the best place to start. This way it is quite easy to get a discount price as they do not have to increase their prices to cover the cost of expensive showrooms. You can get a good idea of the styles and compare prices from the comfort of your living room. There are many types of range hoods on offer so take your time and pick one that will enhance your kitchen.

No Comments »

Adding An Island Range Hood To The Kitchen

Posted by Ray / Categories kitchen design and range hood and range hoods

You will often find an island range hood installed in commercial kitchens and restaurants. However, they are starting to become more popular in the kitchen at home. If there is an island style kitchen already installed they can make quite a stunning addition. Not only do they add contemporary style they also provide an important safety role by cleaning and ventilating the air in the kitchen.

Odor elimination is probably one of the most common reasons that people install an island hood. They can effectively suck up all those odors and prevent them from circulating around the kitchen and home. This will prevent foods such as fish from leaving lasting smells. A centrally placed range hood is very effective in sucking up air from all corners of the room.

There are health benefits to using a kitchen range hood. Cooking of food and burning of oils releases gases and particles into the air. These can often cause irritation in the chest, nose and eyes. If you suffer with chest problems such as asthma, they may cause even more irritation. An island range hood will remove these pollutants leaving the kitchen not only a more pleasant place to be in but a healthier one too.

Due to the impressive and stylish nature of island hoods, they will not only enhance the look of the room but also add value to the home. They also remove and prevent fine grease particles landing on the kitchen surfaces therefore keeping it looking a lot more cleaner.

When considering which appliance to buy, you will need to look at the venting. The two choices are between those that require venting and the ventless or non vented type. Either type work well. The non vented models filter the air and re-circulate it back into the kitchen. The vented type, need ducts installing to take the air out through and external wall.

If your kitchen does have an island, and especially if you have no form of ventilation or range hood fitted then an island range  hood is certainly something worth considering. Longer term, you will find it will benefit your health and also help keep your kitchen looking better and more stylish.

No Comments »

Next »