A kitchen hood is one of the most important pieces of equipment in any kitchen. It performs not only an aesthetic function, but above all a practical one - it absorbs odors, removes fumes and moisture, and helps to keep the room clean. With a properly selected hood, cooking becomes more pleasant, the space is free of greasy deposits, and the air in the kitchen remains fresh. There are many models on the market, which differ in both appearance and functionality. So how do you choose the perfect hood for your kitchen?
The choice of a hood depends, among other things, on the layout of the kitchen, the style of the interior and installation possibilities
© Freepik
What to look for when choosing a hood?
When choosing a hood, it is worth paying attention to several key parameters that affect its functionality and comfort. One of the most important is efficiency, measured in m³/h. The rule of thumb is simple - the larger the kitchen, the higher the efficiency of the hood should be. As a standard rule, it is assumed that the efficiency of the hood should be 6-10 times the volume of the room, which ensures effective removal of steam and odors. Another important aspect is the volume of operation of the device. A quiet hood is one that generates a noise level of 40-55 dB. It is also worth paying attention to the type of filter, as standard hoods are equipped with grease filters, which can be metal or aluminum. For hoods operating in absorber mode, it is necessary to additionally use carbon filters, which effectively neutralize odors. Modern models of hoods also offer various control options, including touch panels, remote controls or smartphone integration, which allows easy and convenient management of the device's functions. It's also worth considering additional conveniences, such as a timer, which allows the hood to automatically turn off after a certain period of time for added convenience, or LED lighting, which not only acts as an energy-efficient backlighting for the cooktop, but also adds to the aesthetics of the interior. Some models are also equipped with an air quality sensor, which automatically adjusts the power of the hood according to the level of pollutants in the kitchen, ensuring optimal performance at any time of cooking.
Mode of operation - extractor or absorber?
Kitchen hoods can operate in two modes: as an extractor or absorber.
- Extractor - connected to the ventilation duct, exhausts the air outside the building. This is the most efficient solution, but requires a suitable ventilation system.
- Absorber - filters the air and releases it back into the room. This is a good option if we do not have the ability to connect the hood to ventilation. The key role here is played by the carbon filter, which must be replaced regularly.
Tip: If you have access to an air duct, it's worth opting for an exhaust hood, as it works faster and more efficiently than an absorber.
The hoods can operate in either exhaust or absorber mode
© Franke
Trends in kitchen hoods for 2025
Trends in kitchen hoods for 2025 indicate an increasing emphasis on modern materials, such as matte black, glass and stainless steel, which give the appliances a sleek and minimalist look. Copper and gold finishes are also growing in popularity, bringing a luxurious touch to the kitchen. Among modern technologies , app-controlled hoods , air quality sensors and integration with smart home systems stand out, enabling even easier and more automated operation. Another important trend is attention to quiet operation of appliances, so manufacturers are using sound-dampening technologies to minimize cooking noise. On the other hand, eco-friendly solutions, such as energy-efficient motors and advanced filters that absorb more pollutants, allow for better performance while reducing environmental impact.
One of the kitchen equipment trends for 2025 are hoods with a copper finish
© Freepik
Types of kitchen hoods - which will be the best?
When deciding to buy a hood, it is worth starting by choosing the right type of appliance. Depending on the layout of the kitchen, interior style and installation possibilities, we can choose from several basic types of hoods.
Wall-mounted hood
Wall-mounted hoods are some of the most popular models. They are mounted directly against the wall, just above the cooktop. Their popularity is due to both their high efficiency in absorbing fumes and their wide range of styles, which allows them to easily fit into almost any kitchen. Among the available variants, you can find classic chimney hoods, which with their simple, elegant design fit traditional interiors, as well as modern slanted hoods, which are the perfect solution for minimalist and designer arrangements.
One of the key advantages of wall-mounted hoods is their high efficiency, thanks to which they effectively eliminate not only fumes and odors from cooking, but also fine grease particles, preventing them from settling on furniture and walls. In addition, many models offer advanced features such as air quality sensors, automatic adjustment of suction power or quiet inverter motors that provide comfort without annoying noise.
However, it should not be forgotten that this type of hood requires adequate wall space, which can be a bit of a limitation in smaller kitchens or in rooms where the layout of the furniture does not allow for free installation. In addition, due to their size, they take up more space than under-cabinet or telescopic models, which can affect the overall aesthetics of the kitchen.
Wall-mounted hoods are very popular for, among other things, their high vapor extraction efficiency and wide range of styles
© Franke
Island hood
This is an excellent solution for kitchens with an island, where the cooktop is located in the center of the room. Due to their nature, they are mounted directly to the ceiling, making them the centerpiece of the kitchen design. Often they take on striking, designer forms, so that they serve not only a practical function, but also a decorative one. Modern models of island hoods are distinguished by their elegant appearance and are available in a variety of styles - from classic, rectangular blocks to futuristic, rounded designs made of tempered glass and stainless steel.
One of the biggest advantages of island hoods is their high efficiency, which allows them to effectively absorb fumes and odors from the entire kitchen space, regardless of its size. This allows users to enjoy fresh air even during intensive cooking.
However, it is important to note that the installation of an island hood requires a solid attachment to the ceiling, which can be a challenge, especially for suspended ceilings or high interiors. This requires advance planning of the installation and often additional installation work. Moreover, compared to wall-mounted models, island hoods tend to be more expensive, making them a more luxurious solution. However, their functionality, efficiency and designer look make them a choice worth considering, especially in spacious, modern kitchens.
Island hoods often take on a striking designer form
© Franke
Undermount hoods
Under-cabinet hoods are a compact and practical solution for those who appreciate saving space in the kitchen. Mounted directly under the hanging cabinet above the cooktop, they are almost invisible, which makes them a perfect fit in modern, minimalist arrangements. Their biggest advantage is their discreet appearance - they do not dominate the interior, but subtly blend into the kitchen furniture line, which is especially important in small kitchens and kitchen annexes connected to the living room.
Thanks to their compact size, under-cabinet hoods do not take up much space, leaving more storage space in kitchen cabinets. Their installation is relatively simple and does not require complicated installation work - it is enough to properly mount the device under the cabinet and connect it to the ventilation or equip it with a charcoal filter if it is to operate in absorber mode. This is a particularly convenient solution for those who want to improve the air quality in the kitchen, but do not have the opportunity to connect the hood to the ventilation system.
It is worth remembering, however, that under-cabinet hoods usually have lower efficiency than chimney or island models. Their compact design means limited power to absorb fumes and odors, which may be insufficient for intensive cooking. In addition, the stylistic choices for this type of hood are a bit more limited - simple, functional models that focus on efficiency and space saving rather than designer forms dominate. Nevertheless, for those who are looking for a practical and almost invisible solution for a small kitchen, under-cabinet hoods will be an excellent choice.
The under-cabinet hood is almost invisible, which makes it a perfect fit in modern, minimalist arrangements
© MAAN
Ceiling hood
Ceiling hoods are a modern and elegant solution that is perfect for spacious kitchens, especially those decorated in a minimalist style. They are mounted directly in the ceiling, often in a special suspended structure, so they remain almost invisible. Their discreet form means that they do not dominate the interior design, while providing high efficiency in removing fumes and odors.
One of the main advantages of ceiling hoods is their aesthetics - they do not take up space above the cooktop, which gives the impression of lightness and openness of the kitchen. Many models are additionally equipped with LED lighting, which can serve both a practical and decorative function, emphasizing the modern character of the interior.
However, it is worth remembering that the installation of this type of hood is more demanding than for classic models. Often it is necessary to plan in advance the appropriate suspension of the ceiling and to bring the electrical and ventilation systems. Installation can be complicated and usually requires the help of specialists. Nevertheless, for many people who appreciate minimalism and high quality finishes, a ceiling hood is an ideal choice, combining functionality with exceptional aesthetics.
Ceiling hoods do not take up space above the cooktop, which gives the impression of lightness and openness to the kitchen
© Franke
Countertop (pull-out) hoods
Countertop hoods are an innovative solution that fits perfectly into the aesthetics of modern and minimalist interiors. Unlike traditional models, this type of hood remains almost invisible on a daily basis, as it is hidden in the kitchen countertop. It is activated only when needed - the hood slides up right next to the cooktop, effectively absorbing steam and odors right at their source.
This type of hood is a great solution for those who value space saving and impeccable kitchen appearance. The absence of a hanging or wall-mounted design makes the room appear more spacious and harmonious. In addition, pull-out models are characterized by very high efficiency in absorbing steam and odors, as they operate in close proximity to the cooking food.
However, it is worth remembering that countertop hoods require specially designed furniture and adequate space under the countertop, which can increase the cost of their installation. These are also higher-priced models, but for many people their functionality and designer appearance fully compensate for this investment.
Siemens iQ700 countertop hood
© SIEMENS
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Compiled by:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
