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Cooking becomes extremely difficult if you do not have proper ventilation in your kitchen. Moreover, all of the smoke and vapor can have an adverse effect on your health in the long run. As a result, you’ll need the best exhaust fan for your kitchen, one that won’t make you physically feel the heat.
A good kitchen exhaust fan helps remove hot steam and smoke from your kitchen and keeps your cooking surface, ceiling, and walls from becoming discolored. It also helps improve air quality by removing stale or strong food scents and air contaminants.
Read this post as we’ve compiled a list of some of the best tried and tested kitchen exhaust fans to keep your kitchen odor-free and smoke-free. We also tell you about the various types of exhaust fans and give you a few tips on choosing the right product for your kitchen.
Top Picks
Benefits Of A Kitchen Exhaust Fan
Here are a few reasons why it is so important to install an exhaust fan in your kitchen.
- Controls humidity: Steam in the kitchen can cause tremendous humidity, which creates the perfect environment for molds and mildew to flourish. Exhaust fans for kitchens drag out the moisture and warm air and keep your kitchens dry and fresh.
- Eliminates odor: All kinds of odors and grease are generated when you cook something elaborate. These odors can linger around for a long time and can even settle on walls, furniture, and fabrics. An exhaust fan works to pull out the odor and prevent grease from settling on your walls and fabrics.
- Reduces hot air: Cooking in front of a gas stove can make you sweat profusely. To provide some relief, a kitchen exhaust fan can easily pull out all the hot air and leave the kitchen refreshed with cool and fresh air.
- Improves visibility: The steam emanating from the food can make it difficult to see the food that is cooking. If you wear spectacles, you will know the struggle of wiping off steam from the glasses. By pulling out the steam, an exhaust fan allows you to see better when cooking.
Types Of Kitchen Exhaust Fans
An exhaust fan can be a ducted fan or a ductless range hood. The ducted range hood or exhaust fan pulls out the hot air from the kitchen and pushes it out of the house in the open air. On the other hand, a ductless range hood takes in the kitchen air, filters it, and then sends fresh air back into the kitchen.
Let us now discuss some of the most common types of kitchen exhaust fans.
- Under-cabinet hood: In this ventilation system, the exhaust fan is placed directly below a wall cabinet. Its ductwork is done through either the ceiling or chase of the nearest wall. It can also be installed with a shallow hood so that you can easily pull it out of the cabinet.
- Wall-chimney hood: If your cooking top does not come with a cabinet installed above it, you can install this exhaust system. It has an exposed vent that works to refresh the hot air.
- Ceiling mount hood: This vertical vent system is attached to the ceiling right above the cooktop and does not need a cabinet or a wall support for installation. The exhaust system, however, should be a bit wider than the cooking stove for easy ventilation.
- Downdraft hood: This type of exhaust fan is mostly used in kitchens with barely any scope for ductwork through the walls or the ceiling. Installed under the floor, it can effectively pull out smoke and strong odors.
15 Best Kitchen Exhaust Fans
1. Best Rust-Resistant:Broan-NuTone Ductless Range Hood Insert with Light Exhaust Fan
Image: Broannutone Made of stainless steel, this ductless range hood is equipped with a filtration system that can pull out smoke and odors. It comes with an incandescent lighting arrangement that throws enough light over the cooktop for better visibility. Its charcoal filter helps capture grease, so your kitchen remains fresh and clean. Its two-speed fan control allows you to adjust the ventilation system as required. Check out a tester’s experience in this review video to learn more about this exhaust fan.
Pros
- Protective lamp lens distributes light evenly
- Separate rocker switch controls light and fan
- Uses 75-watt bulb
- Resistant to rust
- Easy-to-clean steel frame
- Attractive design
- Available in various matching colors and widths
Cons
- Installation may seem tricky and difficult
- A bit noisy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 16,548 reviews on Amazon.
Do remember2. Best Stainless Steel:Cosmo Slim Kitchen Stove Vent with 3 Speed Exhaust Fan
Image: Cosmo Designed to fit under most cabinets, this slim stove vent is a great choice for a condo or an apartment. Tried and tested, this ductless exhaust fan for the kitchen is made of stainless steel, and its fan has three-speed levels. Its aluminum mesh filters can effectively trap grease and oil, and the fan has a provision for an optional carbon filter kit. The built-in LED light enables better visibility when working in the kitchen.
Pros
- Multi-layered grease filter
- Dishwasher-safe aluminum mesh filters
- Seamless easy-to-clean body
- Soundless operation
- Five buttons for control
- Slim design saves space
Cons
- Fan may not be able to pull out air effectively
- Exhaust vent may not fit a regular standard vent in the wall
"This convertible fan has served my non-ducted setup pretty well. It adds an element of modernity to my kitchen with its chic look. I found the suction power adequate despite not being as powerful as a ducted unit. Overall, its performance is satisfactory."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 7,745 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
3. Best With Adjustable Mounting Brackets:Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling Ventilation Fan
Image: Panasonic If you are looking for an energy-efficient product, this ceiling-mountable exhaust fan system might interest you. Certified by Energy Star, it consumes little energy but sucks out a lot of warm air. It helps enhance air quality and operates on a ‘whisper-quiet’ noise level as tested and verified in real-world settings. The motors are permanently lubricated for durability, and the double hanger-bar allows you to install the ventilation system wherever you want. Check out this review video where a reviewer tests the fan to learn if this product meets your requirements.
Pros
- Helps prevent humidity
- Protects from air pollution
- Adjustable mounting brackets
- Simple wiring procedure
- Built-in damper stops backdraft
- Good vent suction volume
Cons
- Does not come with light
"This exhaust fan has lasted me a while. It generates a powerful airflow, making it efficient, and its noise levels are comfortably low. However, I wish it was easier to install. I would recommend it."
Broan-NuTone Exhaust Fan Best Rust-Resistant | Cosmo Exhaust Fan Best Stainless Steel | Panasonic Ventilation Fan Best With Adjustable Mounting Brackets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | 30-Inch | Stainless Steel | White |
| Wattage | 240 | 146 watts | 64 |
| Dimensions | 6 x 17.5 x 30 inches | 19.75 x 36 x 5.5 inches | 19.01"D x 15.98"W x 12.51"H |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 19 pounds | 4 Pounds |
| Material | - | - | Alloy Steel |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 16,548 | 7,745 | 535 |
| Price | $119.0 | $129.99 | $235.99 |
4. Best Soundless Airflow:BV Under Cabinet Range Hood
Your kitchen can be kept fresh and clean always when you work with an under-cabinet exhaust fan cum range hood like this one. It comes with dual high airflow motors that facilitate powerful air suction, and its 18-gauge stainless steel design makes it easy to install. Strong enough to suck out smoke and grease, this range hood fan features baffle filters that can be cleaned in a dishwasher. Watch a tester’s experience in this video to get a detailed review of this hood with 750 CFM airflow capacity.
Pros
- Patented ‘Slanted’ design
- Soundless airflow
- Provides full coverage for stovetop
- Bright, energy-efficient LED lights
Cons
- Filters lack durability
- Lights tend to flicker occasionally
"What makes this range hood stand out is its impressive 750 airflow rate. I am impressed by its potent air suction, making it one of the most efficient units I have ever come across. The LED lights could have been brighter; nevertheless, its low-noise feature and reliable performance make it a solid choice."
5. Best ABS Plastic:Hon&Guan Home Ventilation Exhaust Fan
Image: Hon&guan Here is a small exhaust fan that is easy to use. All you have to do is install it against a wall, connect it to the nearest socket, and it is good to go. The fan’s exterior is made of ABS plastic and has seven blades to give you maximum suction power. Its copper motor runs on low power and does not overheat. The backdraft shutter prevents insects and mosquitoes from getting inside.
Pros
- Offers good heat dissipation
- Waterproof body
- Simple installation
- Ultra-thin front panel
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons
- Plastic body may lack durability
- Low suction power
"This device is a practical solution for small kitchens. It helps promote adequate air circulation despite not being the most powerful option. Tweaking the backdraft flaps ensured quieter operation. Moreover, the fan is easy to set up and adapts to existing mechanisms."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 1,130 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
6. Best Galvanized Steel:Broan-NuTone 505 Exhaust Fan
Image: Broan-nutone Made of galvanized steel, this exhaust fan can be easily installed between ceiling joists. It works on 6.5 sones and has an airflow capacity of 180 CFM to ensure you get the best function without much noise. Its steel mounting brackets come with keyhole slots to simplify installation. The polymeric grills of this high CFM exhaust fan make it fit right in to suit your kitchen décor.
Pros
- Certified by Energy Star and HVI
- Eliminates humidity, smoke, and odor
- Durable, rugged exterior
- Suitable for vertical installation only
Cons
- Damper tends to rattle audibly when in use
- May not be long-lasting
"This fan delivers effective air movement thanks to its permanently lubricated motor. Fitting it seamlessly into the roof access was a bit tricky. Despite this, it's a great option for its robust galvanized steel housing and 200 CFM capacity."
7. Best Long-Lasting:Sailflo 10 Inch Exhaust Shutter Fan
To provide perfect ventilation, this 10-inch tall exhaust shutter fan offers you two-way linkage ventilation. It has a rope plug that sucks out hot air when pulled once and pulls in fresh air when pulled twice. It can be easily installed in any vent in the kitchen. Its detachable panel is easy to clean and maintain. It comes with an overheat protector so you can use it safely for a long time.
Pros
- Can work up to 9,000 hours
- Outlet shutter blocks dust, mosquitoes, and insects
- Easy installation and operation
Cons
- A bit noisy
- Suction may not be strong
"This exhaust shutter fan is a convenient and durable option. Though a bit louder than expected, we got used to it in no time. The important point is that it performs well, dissipates cooking odors, and improves air quality. Also, it is easy to install."
8. Best Design:Lift Bridge Kitchen & Bath Exhaust Bath Fan
Offering 110 CFM airflow, this exhaust fan can effectively reduce moisture in the kitchen. Its 1.5 sones sound rating ensures that it does not make even the slightest sound. It comes with a two-bulb fixture so you can see clearly when cooking.
Pros
- Works almost soundlessly
- Esthetically pleasing design
- Brand offers a three-year warranty
Cons
- May not be rust-resistant
"The biggest advantage of this fan is its almost noiseless functionality. I had to take the help of a professional to install it to ensure hassle-free operation. Apart from successfully eliminating food odor, it also removes moisture, ensuring a hygienic kitchen. Lastly, its decorative design has added to my kitchen's elegance."
9. Best Easy-To-Install:Hon&Guan Home Exhaust Fan
Image: Hon&guan Available in a classic white color and a unique design, this exhaust fan can drag out impure and hot air to let in fresh and cool air. It runs on low power but gives you good exhaust properties. Made of ABS plastic, it is easy to clean and maintain and is sturdy and durable too. It comes with a built-in copper motor with thermal protection so it can run safely for hours.
Pros
- Simple installation process
- Attractive design
- Sound-free functioning
Cons
- Low suction power
"I recommend this fan for its simple installation mechanism and for improving the ventilation in the kitchen. It may not deliver whisper-quiet operation; however, this is a small trade-off for its adequate airflow that prevents moisture accumulation and odors. Its 5W LED bulb lighting is a bonus."
Quick tip10. Best Powerful Motors:Hauslane Chef Series Range Hood
Image: Hauslane If you do not have the space or even the preference for a large T-shaped hood, look for something inconspicuous like this one. This sleek range hood comes with highly powerful motors that offer high suction to drag out smoke and vapor. Its LED lights can brighten up your kitchen counter to provide a safe cooking environment. The removable baffle filters can be easily washed in a dishwasher.
Pros
- Fan comes with three speed settings
- Can also be paired with a charcoal filter to suck out grease
- Features energy-efficient LED lights
- Brand offers a two-year warranty
Cons
- Loud and noisy when in use
"What made me select this fan was its sleek design. It seamlessly integrates into my kitchen decor, thanks to its discreet appearance. However, I wish the fan was a bit less noisy. It's worth using for its strong suction, adjustable lighting, and dishwasher-safe components."
11. Best Powerful Motors:Hauslane Chef Series Range Hood
Image: Hauslane Quiet motors and great suction power make this range hood popular among buyers. Its stainless steel body is easy to install in almost any kitchen, and the energy-efficient LED lights help reduce power consumption. The quiet kitchen exhaust fan hood comes with oil trays and cups that make cleaning the hood simple and easy. Its three-speed setting allows you to determine how the range functions.
Pros
- Simple operation and maintenance
- Easy to wipe clean
- Unique, attractive design
- Brand offers a two-year warranty
Cons
- LED lights can be very dim
- No instructions on installation
"This ventilator is a strong performer for handling heavy cooking. Installing it was a bit tedious; however, it has been worth it. It is sturdy and manages cooking odors effectively. Overall, it is a decent and efficient choice."
12. Best Durable:Gasland Chef Wall Mount Range Hood
Image: Gasland Non-magnetic and rustproof, this wall-mounting range hood is sturdy and long-lasting. Its powerful motor offers three speed levels. With five push buttons to control its functions, its European design can give your kitchen a posh look. At 450 CFM airflow capacity and a sound as low as 65 dB, this stainless steel range hood is one of the best on the list.
Pros
- Durable build
- LED lighting
- Detachable filters are dishwasher-safe
- Easy to install
- Stain-resistant stainless steel body is easy to clean
Cons
- Tends to vibrate excessively
"The USP of this model is its sturdiness. Despite the rough use it has gone through, it still holds up well. Moreover, its consistent functionality, LED lighting, and modern aesthetics make it a worthwhile addition to my kitchen."
13. Best With Teflon-Coated Wind Wheels:Costway Under-Cabinet Range Hood
This advanced under-cabinet hood comes with a remote control that can operate from a distance of ten feet. It can be used to adjust the four-speed setting of the exhaust fan. When on high speed, the silent motors run at a noise of 65dB. It has a premium stainless steel body that is easy to maintain and clean.
Pros
- Teflon-coated wind wheels easily remove cooking smoke
- Removable baffle filters for easy cleaning
- 1-15 minutes delayed shut off function
- Large LCD touch screen panel
- Includes LED bulbs
Cons
- Tends to be noisy when in use
"This exhaust hood looks great and lives up to its performance expectations. I wish it had sturdier grates that could have reduced its rattling sound to a great extent. However, its ability to ensure a fresh-smelling kitchen and hassle-free installation process makes it a reliable option."
14. Best Easy-To-Clean:Ciarra Wall Mount Range Hood
Image: Ciarra This wall-mountable and convertible range hood can be used as a ducted or ductless exhaust system. It comes with an adjustable chimney that has two sections to suit your preferences. The fans have three speed levels, and the control panel has five buttons to adjust the fan speed and operate the light bulb. Its aluminum filters are safe to wash in a dishwasher.
Pros
- User-friendly design
- Noise level of less than 65 dB
- Eliminates grease, odor, and smoke
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel exterior
- Fits under a 10-feet ceiling
Cons
- Fan blower lacks durability
"I was impressed by this hood's modern aesthetics. It is advisable to slowly peel off the protective film before installation to keep its finish intact. Furthermore, in terms of its performance, it does a profound job of removing foul smells from the cooking area."
15. Best Height-Adjustable: Firegas Wall Mounted Range Hood
Image: Firegas Eliminate smoke and odor with the Firegas wall-mounted range hood. This energy-efficient kitchen exhaust fan cum hood comes with a height-adjustment feature, making it ideal for most kitchens. It is built with R-shaped rounded corners to protect your head from collisions. This exhaust fan with filter works on a simple button press, and the dishwasher-safe baffle filters included in the chimney trap the oil and fume. You can also convert this chimney into a ductless mode.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Corrosion-resistant
- Durable design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Suction power could have been a tad stronger
"I am content with this hood's overall performance and stylish design. Putting it up did require some redrilling, but it is manageable even for first-timers. Overall, it has been a solid choice for keeping my kitchen air fresh and clean."
How To Choose The Right Kitchen Exhaust Fan?
The best kitchen exhaust fan is the one that is effective and also adds to the décor. The following are some essential features you can look at when looking for a kitchen exhaust fan.
- Exhaust system: Depending on the space and provision for ductwork, you can choose a ducted range hood or a ductless exhaust system.
- Kitchen space: The size and type of range hood or exhaust system depend on the space available in your kitchen. The decision that the exhaust hood has to be mounted on a wall or fixed under a cabinet is dictated by the kind of space your kitchen has and how your cooktop is positioned. For instance, if your house has a low ceiling and no open vent through the roof, opt for a ductless unit to filter the air before recirculating it into the kitchen.
- Exhaust power: If your cooking space is large and wide, a tiny wall mount exhaust fan will prove inefficient in clearing out the smoke. The exhaust system’s power should ideally be strong enough to clear out the amount of smoke and hot air produced whenever you cook.
- Soundless function: Exhaust systems have fans that tend to be noisy. However, the noise levels vary from one exhaust system to another. So, it is always best to do a ‘sound-check’ before purchasing. When buying online, you can check the product features for sound levels or read the reviews to get a better idea.
- Material: Most kitchen ventilation systems are made of stainless steel. But if steel does not go with your home décor, pick those made of ABS plastic or aluminum. You can also choose from different colors and designs that can add to the beauty of your kitchen.
- Price range: All the above factors contribute to the final price of an exhaust system. You can compare prices with all other brands available and see which option gives you the most value for money.
Do Exhaust Fans For Kitchens Get Rid Of Oil And Grease Vapor?
Yes, an exhaust fan is designed to draw smoke or grease vapor toward it. Once inside through the vent hood, it is trapped in the grease catcher to prevent it from moving any further and ruining the internal system.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 400 CFM hood enough?
It totally depends on the British Thermal Unit (BTU), which is the measurement of the amount of heat generated by your cooktop. To calculate the appropriate CFM hood you require, just divide the BTU by 100.
2. How to clean a kitchen exhaust fan?
Different kitchen exhaust fans have different cleaning procedures. Most exhaust fans come with a manual that also consists of the cleaning procedure.
3. How can I make my exhaust fan more effective?
By installing your exhaust fan in the appropriate position, you can make it more effective. For example, by placing your exhaust fan just above the cooktop, it makes it work faster and more efficiently.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John is experienced in researching and writing on home and kitchen essentials, ensuring her readers find the most suitable products for their homes. She listed the best kitchen exhaust fans to ensure ventilation in your kitchen. Her detailed information on various consumer-tested kitchen fans and their features, such as layers of grease filters, maintenance, soundless, slim designs, and control buttons, can help you pick one as per your requirements.
The Bottom Line
Not all households are blessed with a well-ventilated kitchen, which is when a kitchen exhaust fan comes to one’s rescue. Kitchen exhaust fans make cooking a lot more convenient, eliminating the need to rush out of the kitchen when frying or roasting is involved. We recommend the Broan-NuTone Ductless Range Hood for its light feature, the Panasonic FV-30VQ3 WhisperCeiling Fan, for its built-in damper that eliminates backdraft, and the Lift Bridge Kitchen & Bath Exhaust Fan, for its quiet operation. Regardless of the brand you select, considering factors such as your kitchen space, ease of installation and cleaning, noise level, speed settings, and durability can assist you in making the right choice when selecting one.
Infographics: How To Clean An Exhaust Fan?
Cleaning an exhaust fan may sound like a daunting task. But when done in the proper way using the right tools, your exhaust fan will be free of dirt, grime, and build-up. Keep reading the below infographic to understand the effective cleaning procedure. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Short-term exposure to cooking fumes and pulmonary function
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2685804/
