Suggestions and guides
Exhaust hoods
Functionality of exhaust hoods
Thanks to original forms that exceed its merely practical function, essential to the elimination of odours and vapour from cooking, which can affect the durability of cabinetry. This is why the exhaust hood should always be used when cooking.
Concealed exhaust hoods
Countertop exhaust hoods
Also known as “down draft” units. They are built into the back or sides of the cooktop; when no longer in use, they can be recessed into the countertop, obviously designed to provide the necessary space in the cabinets below for the motor and the best system for exhausting fumes and vapours.
Built-in exhaust hoods
These wall mounted units integrated in upper cabinets are more function than aesthetics. Designed to be concealed in the upper cabinets, they ensure a homogenous set of cabinet fronts across the entire kitchen. Dimensions vary between 45 and 120 cm.
Ceiling mounted exhaust hoods
These units are designed to be installed above an island or peninsula, set into a gypsum board ceiling, leaving only the panels covering the filters in view.
Designer hoods
Wall mounted hoods
These designer exhaust hoods are fixed to the wall, in plain view.
Island exhaust hoods
Designer exhaust hoods created to be suspended above an island or peninsula, with an exhaust pipe that runs into the ceiling.
Things to consider
Materials
Generally in exposed stainless steel, they can be finished in wood, glass or other materials; in particular, in kitchens with an island cooktop they can be inserted in structures with shelves, practical for storing pots and pans, spices and the most frequently used utensils.
Motor
Selected based on the form, typology and dimensions of the exhaust hood, to ensure the proper power to efficiently and silently draw away fumes and vapours. Motors can be housed directly in the hood or, in particular for island or down draft hoods, in a remote location outside the hood or even on the roof of the house, to guarantee the most silent operation.
Minimum distances
Wall mounted or built-in hoods should be suspended at least 50 cm above the countertop; this number should be increased to 70 cm for islands. The distance also depends in part on the power of the motor.