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Range Hood Duct Sizing Guide

Ducted range hoods are usually connected to a duct with pipes that carry gases and particles from your kitchen to the outdoors. If you make the decision to go with a ducted range hood over a ductless one, you have to install the right ducts that will help move the dirty air and particles out of your kitchen effectively. One factor you have to consider when selecting a range hood duct is the size. This article gives a proper range hood duct sizing guide so you can make the right decision when selecting one.

Range Hood Duct Diameter

Your duct’s diameter is one of the most important factors you have to consider when getting ductwork for your range hood. This part of the article looks at some duct selection guidelines you need to pay attention to based on your hood’s CFM.

range hood in a beautiful kitchen

Many remodel applications usually have an existing 4” ductwork. At most times, this is usually the only option instead of installing a ductless range hood. It is always recommended to vent outside instead of recirculating. This is even if you have to adapt to a smaller duct size than the recommended one.

Here is a Breakdown of the Duct Size You Need Based On Your Range Hood’s CFM

If you have a range hood with a CFM of 0-400, you will need a minimum duct size of 4”. If your hood is between 401 and 600 CFM, you need a minimum duct size of 6”. If your hood is between 601 and 900 CFM, you need a minimum duct size of 7”. If your hood is between 901 and 1200 CFM, then you should go for a minimum duct size of 8”, and if you have a 1200 CFM hood, consider going for a minimum duct size of 10”.

Range Hood Duct Length

After paying attention to your duct’s diameter size, the next thing you have to consider is its length. With a good duct length, you can be able to exhaust the cooking air effectively even if your ductwork is undersized.

Things to Consider When Assessing Your Duct Size and Design

One thing you need to note is that the length of your duct and number of turns actually matter. To your surprise, shorter is always better when it comes to duct length. The reasoning behind this is that every time you change your duct’s direction, you add some resistance, increasing the pressure needed to move the air. When the duct is short and straight, air movement will be much easier. Another thing to consider is that when selecting ductwork, be sure to go for straight and upward facing ducting since hot air rises and the duct will hence operate optimally.

Pros and Cons of a Ducted Range Hood

Ducted range hoods are quite common on commercial kitchens or big homes. They are fit for those kitchens that generate larger levels of smoke and fumes that should be vented to the outside. They are quite efficient for getting rid of steam and humidity from the cooking area since they vent all of it to the outside.

Some users claim that ducted hoods are more efficient and quiet compared to non-ducted ones. However, this is quite debatable because efficiency and noise production depend on the model, brand, and size of your range hood.

Despite the benefits, ducted hoods have their own downsides. One major disadvantage is that a ducted hood has to be installed in an area where the duct system goes to the exterior of your home. This means that ducted hoods are limited to certain areas, especially those that have their own compounds. It also limits the area in your kitchen where you can position your range hood.

A range hood duct is quite important since it is the one tasked with eliminating gases and particles from your kitchen to the outdoors. If you are in search of a range hood duct, then you might have already realized that the market has many sizes to offer. On this point, you need to note that recommended duct sizes depend on the cubic feet per minute rating of your range hood. We have given minimum duct sizes depending on your hood’s CFM. Apart from the duct’s diameter, you have to pay attention to its length too. The shorter and straighter your duct is, the better results it will offer. If you are still wondering of the best duct size for your range hood, consider reaching out to a professional for assistance.