Practical guide for choosing a cooker hood in open kitchens

In recent years, open-plan kitchens have gained popularity, becoming the heart of many homes. And it's no wonder because this type of design connects spaces, encourages social interaction, and brings spaciousness and light to the space. However, this configuration poses a fundamental challenge: controlling the fumes, odors, and particles that can invade the rest of the house when cooking.

Therefore, choosing an extractor hood is key when designing an open-plan kitchen. This appliance, essential in closed kitchens, becomes even more important in these types of designs where the boundaries between areas are more blurred, and its function is crucial to prevent kitchen odors and fumes from spreading to the living area. Choosing the right model is an investment in cleanliness, health, and well-being for the entire family. Can we help you?

What power should it have?

The effectiveness of an extractor hood depends on its air circulation capacity. This parameter is measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). A 400 m³/h hood will be sufficient in small spaces. However, in open kitchens, it is advisable to choose models with a capacity of 800 m³/h or higher, as the air will be dispersed throughout the entire room.

How to choose a silent model?

Noise level is a determining factor in open kitchens, where the sounds of the hood can interfere with daily life. Noise is measured in decibels (dB), and is considered to be:
Between 40 and 50 decibels: This is a low noise level, ideal for open kitchens.
Between 50 and 70 decibels: Acceptable, but can be annoying in social settings.
Opt for hoods with soundproof motors or noise-reducing technology, and look for models with adjustable power features to minimize sound in low-demand situations.

The most important thing to keep in mind for installation

Ideal height: Install the hood between 65 and 75 cm above the hob. This ensures efficient extraction without obstructing your view or interfering with the cooking process.

Appropriate size: Choose a hood that is at least as wide as the cooktop to cover the entire surface and ensure complete extraction of fumes and odors.

Adequate ventilation: If you use an outdoor exhaust system, make sure the ducts are straight and of adequate diameter to minimize power loss. If you opt for recirculation, install activated carbon filters to effectively neutralize odors.

Maintenance keys

Regular filter cleaning: Metal filters should be cleaned every 2-3 weeks in the dishwasher or with hot water and degreaser. Activated carbon filters should be replaced every 4-6 months, depending on usage.

Periodic Inspection: Check the ventilation ducts to make sure they are not clogged and verify that the engine is running properly.

Finding the most functional and aesthetic solution

In an open kitchen, the design and location of the extractor hood will not only determine its functionality but will also be crucial in creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing space. Consider the size of your open kitchen and select the extractor hood that best suits your needs from these types of extractor hoods.

Freestanding bells
These types of hoods are perfect for large spaces, where they become a key decorative element. Since they are freestanding, they are very easy to maintain and clean.

Construction bell
Construction hoods stand out for their ability to integrate seamlessly into architectural designs. Their freestanding structure allows for customized coverings, such as tiles or curved finishes, which conceal the hood and extraction tube with plasterboard, achieving a cohesive look within the space.

Solutions to avoid seeing the extractor hood

Integrated hood

If your kitchen is small and you want to maximize its storage capacity, or you simply don't want the hood to be visible, integrated hoods are the ones you're looking for.

You can integrate it into a tall unit above the stove, which will provide functionality and visual continuity to the space. If your kitchen units aren't ceiling-mounted, you can conceal the extractor fan with a plasterboard column and make it completely invisible.

Plates with extraction system

There's another option for those who don't want to have to dedicate a specific space in their kitchen to the extractor hood. You can equip your kitchen with a cooktop with integrated extraction. This type of appliance draws smoke, odors, and vapors directly from the cooking surface through a ventilation system built into the cooktop itself.

If you're remodeling your kitchen, remember that choosing the right extractor hood can make all the difference. The CUBRO team can help you answer any questions you may have by clicking here.