Installing a range hood in the kitchen is an expensive investment and hence, you need to ensure that it is fixed right the first time. Here are some important points to consider that can help you avoid some common installation mistakes.
Inspect when you receive it
At the time of receiving the range hood ensure that:
- you have inspected the different part of the appliance at the time the shipment arrives.
- If there are shipping damages seen or any missing part, the same can be resolved in a small timeframe between the appliance seller and the shipping carrier.
- It is best that one does not wait for a long time to resolve the problem so that the renovation time frame is not messed up.
- Most manufacturers would individually inspect the range hood components before they ship them; the items are also packaged well so that the rigors of shipping and transit are endured well. However, it is best to inspect the package soon after opening so that any problem can be reported soon so that replacements are obtained faster.
Check intended functions
It is also important to plug in the hood and check the functions. This might seem logical and a common sense thing to do, but many people often forget it in the flurry of activities that are usually part of a kitchen upgrade.
After plugging in the range hood to check the lights and blower to ensure that the hood is working fine. In case the installation is not done right, these functions will not work.
At the time of inspection you will find that part of the range hood are covered with a protective layer of plastic film; this should not be removed so that scratches do not happen.
How to install ducted and ductless designs
Range hoods come in two configurations, either ductless or ducted.
- In case of a ducted installation, the duct carries air from the range hood in the external part of the kitchen
- If it is a ductless installation the air gets cleaned by charcoal filters and comes back to the kitchen.
- In case of ducted installation the recommendations made by the manufacturer need to be followed, especially in deciding the duct type and size.
- If it is connected to a smaller duct it can lead to a compromise in performance and also overheating.
- Most high performing range hoods nowadays come fitted with rigid ducting which ensures that the airflow is kept laminar and the rigid duct has smooth walls that do not vibrate and make noise when air passes through them.
Points to remember
In case of ducted installation, it should not be terminated in a closed space which can lead to improper functioning of the range hood as there is back pressure in an enclosed space. An outside duct that exists outside a wall should be fitted with a duct cap. There are roof mounted ducts that usually have a U shaped elbow and allows air to come out while snow and rain are kept out.
