First of all, a rangehood is a metal duct that is installed in the kitchen above the cooktop to remove smoke, grease, heat, condensation and cooking odours. This is done by an internal fan which pulls air up through a filtration system. Rangehoods can be ducted externally by directing the air outside (through the wall or ceiling), or they can clean the air using carbon filters and then recirculate it back into the kitchen.
Without a rangehood, your kitchen surfaces will eventually gather a layer of grease and grime. A rangehood will give you cleaner air and healthier living space.
A retractable rangehood is a style of rangehood that can be installed beneath your kitchen cupboards (above your cooking area). When you need to use it, simply pull it out and switch it on. And once you're finished cooking, you can push it back into place so as not to disrupt the cabinetry line.
Retractable rangehoods are also known as 'slide-out rangehoods'.
If you have a small kitchen, a retractable rangehood is a good choice. Retractable rangehoods are also perfect for kitchens that have cabinets above the cooktop. Because you can push the rangehood back once you've finished using it, it means you will still be able to access your cupboards.
Some retractable rangehoods can be installed so that they 'disappear' from view, making them a perfect choice for anyone who is going for a minimalist kitchen aesthetic.
Different manufacturers offer different installation options. For advice about what sort of rangehood is best for your kitchen, please give our Customer Support Centre a call on: 1300 000 500.
First of all, you'll need to measure the width of your cooktop. Generally speaking, the rangehood width should match the cooktop width.
Then, you'll need to measure the area above your cooktop. Before you purchase a rangehood, check the product dimensions to make certain that it will fit the available space. We can't stress enough how important it is to measure carefully before you buy!
Appliances Online can organise an installation service with our own team of fully licenced professionals. Please visit our installation information page for more information.
A ducted rangehood directs air from the kitchen outside the house (via the wall or ceiling) through a metal duct. This is the most effective way to clear the air in your kitchen. However this option might not always be possible, as it involves getting a builder to knock a hole in the wall or ceiling in order to install the ducting pipe.
Recirculating rangehoods filter impurities from air and then recirculate it back into the kitchen. They do this using carbon filters which need to be replaced from time to time (depending on how often you use your rangehood).
The advantage of recirculating rangehoods is that you don't need to install a duct pipe through the wall or ceiling. But the disadvantage is that they are not as powerful or effective.
The extraction rate refers to a rangehood's ability to draw in air. Models with higher extraction rates will vent a larger amount of air, which makes them highly effective.
The extraction rate of a rangehood is measured in cubic metres per hour. If you have a large kitchen, it is best to get a rangehood that has a high extraction rate so as to prevent smoke and cooking odours from travelling through your home.
If you do a lot of cooking, look for a rangehood with an extraction rate of around 700m3/h.
All rangehoods have filters. Ducted rangehoods will usually use aluminium filters, which need to be cleaned regularly for maximum efficiency and safety. For maximum cleaning convenience, look for a model with dishwasher-safe filters.
Recirculating rangehoods use carbon filters to remove impurities from the air. These cannot be re-used - once their lifespan is up you'll need to buy new ones to replace them.
Some rangehoods include a filter indicator which is a handy feature to have - as it will inform you when it's time to change the filter.
The noise levels of different types of rangehood will vary. Most manufacturers will provide a decibel rating, however the noise will be affected by other factors such as where it's installed and what fan speed you're using.
If noise is a concern for you, look for a model with a sound-proofed motor.
Touch controls will give your rangehood a streamlined aesthetic, and they will also make the unit easier to clean.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our customer service team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us on 1300 000 500.