Ventilation is key
Delicious aromas are an enticing part of cooking, but condensation, grease and odors from cooktop food preparation can damage your kitchen. A ventilation system will remove stale, steamy air through ducts to eliminate the problem.
There are a variety of ventilation choices:
- Traditional range hoods offer top or rear venting
- Slide-out vent systems fit under cabinets and slide out easily when needed
- Retractable downdraft vent systems slide in and out when necessary
- Canopy hoods provide an attractive and effective alternative to downdraft venting
Once you choose the type of ventilation that best suits your needs and style, there are several features you should consider:
- Fans - They come in a traditional rotary version or a barrel-shaped centrifugal. A centrifugal fan will move more air and is quieter.
- CFM - Cubic feet per minute is used to rate and compare air movement. A higher CFM results in more air moved.
- Automatic shutoff - Use a preset to shut the fan off when you want.
- Heat sensors - They automatically speed up the fan or sound an alarm when they detect increased heat.
Learn more about Whirlpool hoods and vents and KitchenAid hoods and vents