February 28, 2023
Cooker hoods are essential appliances that remove odours and steam from your kitchen’s cooking area. Range hoods come in many shapes and sizes, and the functionality varies based on the technology the extractor uses. Here is a simple guide to help you decide on the best cooker hood for your bespoke kitchen:
What factors should I consider when choosing a cooker hood?
- The design and finish of your range hood should fit in with the design theme for your bespoke kitchen. Hidden extractors are very popular at the moment, although statement pieces can also add an industrial element to your kitchen.
- Extraction rates. It’s important to ensure your extraction rate is suitable to the way you cook. If you mainly steam or boil food, then a lower extraction rate may be suitable. If you often fry, griddle, or cook foods with strong odours, it’s best to go with the highest extraction rate possible.
- Noise level. The higher the extraction rate, the noisier the extractor will be. Cheap extractors tend to rattle more which increases the decibel rate, so it’s worth spending money on a high quality extractor to keep the noise down.
What is a convertible range hood?
A convertible range hood is a cooker hood that can either be vented or recirculating. If the cooker hood can be vented, then this is often the best option as it takes steam and smells directly out of the property. Having said that, modern filters are so good these days that the filter options are almost just as efficient as vented hoods.
What brands of extractors are best?
Bespoke Interiors can advise on the most suitable cooker hood for your kitchen based on the kitchen layout and your cooking style. We specialise in designing custom kitchens with high-end appliances, and typically recommend manufacturers like Miele or Neff.
What is the right height for an extractor?
The height of a cooker hood depends on the regulations. Gas hobs require a distance from the appliance of around 730-750mm, and electric or induction hobs require a distance of 650mm.
However, these regulations can be superseded by the appliance’s own fitting instructions. As long as you are meeting the minimum and maximum heights for the regulations and installation instructions, the hood can then be installed wherever is the most aesthetically and practically pleasing. Our team of kitchen designers can help achieve the best look and safest placement for your extractor.
How do you install a range hood?
Installations vary depending on the cooker hood. For designer hoods or chimney hoods, it is usual to have a bracket installed to the wall that the cooker hood attaches to. With hidden or canopy extractors, the hoods have to be installed into a cabinet which may require cutting a hole cut into the unit. A qualified electrician should then provide the power supply for the cooker hood which will either plug into a socket or will need to be hard wired by the electrician.
We will ensure your extractor is installed correctly and securely when incorporating it into your custom kitchen design.
Would you like more advice on choosing the right extractor to finish off the look of your bespoke kitchen? Get in touch with our team of kitchen designers with any questions about the design and specifications for a kitchen that is truly unique to your style!
