Rangehood shopping checklist
- — 22 August, 2011 08:54
A canopy-style rangehood.
Buying a rangehood can be a stuffy, complicated business. Clear your head and get a breath of fresh air with our shopping checklist.
Rangehood type Rangehoods come in three main types -- canopy, fixed and slide-out. Choose a design that best suits your kitchen and budget.
Ducted or Recirculating? Ducted rangehoods are a lot more effective at extracting air, but they are also more expensive and can be difficult to install. Recirculating rangehoods are generally more affordable, but they may struggle to remove smoke and heat.
Extraction rate Check the model’s maximum extraction rate before making your purchase. The higher the number, the more effective the rangehood will be at venting air.
Filters Most rangehoods have filters that need to be removed and cleaned. Make sure they are easy to detach/reattach. If you own a dishwasher, check if the filters are dishwasher-safe.
Adjustable settings Does the rangehood have adjustable fan speeds? This can help to reduce noise and energy consumption when using low heat or using less cooktop area.
Lights Does the rangehood have an inbuilt light? Is it dimmable? Is the bulb halogen, fluorescent or incandescent?
Sound How loud is the rangehood? Check the packaging to see if a decibel rating is offered.
Removability Can the rangehood be easily removed once installed? This is an important consideration if you are currently renting or plan to upgrade your kitchen in the future.
Package Can the rangehood be purchased as part of a package with other kitchen appliances such as the stovetop and oven? This may help you save money on the overall cost.
Warranty How long does the warranty last for? Don’t forget to check!
