At a Glance:
Ductless Range Hood Pros and Cons
6 Top Ductless Range Hood Brands
Top Ductless Range Hoods From Friedmans
What is a ductless range hood? And why do you need one in your house? These are questions we are excited to answer for you. Ductless range hoods are an incredible asset to have in your home. Keep reading to find out more about ductless range hoods, their pros and cons, and the brands that make them. Plus, we’ll feature some of the best ductless range hoods on the market today. Here we go!
Explore Range Hoods at Friedmans Appliance
Need some fresh air in your kitchen? Discover ducted and ductless range hoods from top brands like Dacor, Zephyr, JennAir, and more at Friedmans Appliance, today!
Shop Range HoodsAbout Ductless Range Hoods
A ductless range hood is a kitchen appliance designed to remove smoke, odors, and grease particles from the air while you’re cooking. Unlike ducted range hoods, which vent air outside through a duct system, ductless hoods filter and recirculate the air back into the kitchen. Using a fan, the hood draws in the contaminated air, which then passes through a filtration system, which traps grease and other unwanted particles and odors. The clean air is then released back into the kitchen, providing better air quality.
Ducted vs. Ductless Range Hoods
There are many benefits to ductless range hoods, including how easy they are to install and how energy efficient they are. They can also be installed anywhere in your kitchen, so downdraft range hood installation is quite easy. Plus, it allows you more versatility in how you design and layout your kitchen.
The drawback of downdraft range hoods is the maintenance they require, as their filters need to be regularly replaced. They are also less effective at removing odors than ducted hoods, and some people say they are less effective because they do not completely remove contaminated air as some vents do, but recirculate it (though it has been filtered).
Ducted range hoods expel air outside through a duct system and are more effective at removing smoke, odors, and heat. Ductless range hoods, on the other hand, recirculate air back into the kitchen after filtration, and are less effective than ducted hoods, but still improve air quality. While ducted range hoods can be difficult to install and have limited placement abilities in your kitchen due to ductwork requirements, ductless range hoods are much easier to install and can be placed anywhere you want in your kitchen.
→ Learn more: What is a Downdraft Cooktop?
Ductless Range Hood Pros and Cons
Ductless range hoods, also known as recirculating or non-vented hoods, are a popular choice for kitchen ventilation due to their ease of installation and versatility. However, like any appliance, they come with their set of pros and cons that should be considered when deciding on the best kitchen ventilation solution for your home.
Pros of Ductless Range Hoods:
✓ Easy Installation: Ductless range hoods are easier to install than ducted ones because they don't require complex ductwork. This makes them a practical choice for both new construction and kitchen renovations.
✓ Versatile Placement: You can place ductless range hoods almost anywhere in your kitchen because they don't rely on a duct to expel air. This flexibility allows for creative and space-saving design choices.
✓ Cost-Effective: Ductless range hoods tend to be more budget-friendly upfront since they don't require duct installation. They can be an economical choice for homeowners looking to improve kitchen ventilation without a significant investment.
✓ Improved Air Quality: While ductless hoods don't expel air outdoors, they are equipped with filters that capture grease, smoke, and odors. This can lead to better indoor air quality and a fresher kitchen environment.
Cons of Ductless Range Hoods:
✗ Limited Smoke and Odor Removal: Ductless range hoods are less effective at removing smoke and strong cooking odors compared to ducted hoods. They primarily recirculate filtered air back into the kitchen, which may not completely eliminate cooking odors.
✗ Regular Maintenance: The filters in ductless hoods require regular cleaning or replacement to maintain their effectiveness. This ongoing maintenance can add to the cost and effort of owning a ductless range hood.
✗ Noise Levels: Some ductless range hoods can be noisy due to the fan required to circulate air through the filters. This noise can be bothersome to some users.
6 Top Ductless Range Hood Brands
1. Dacor
Dacor is a leading kitchen appliance brand known for its high-end ranges, cooktops, and ovens. Dacor range hoods excel in blending innovative technology with elegant design, ensuring effective ventilation for an excellent cooking experience.
2. DCS
DCS is a premium brand renowned for its high-performance kitchen appliances. They specialize in crafting top-quality DCS range hoods known for superior ventilation, robust build, and sleek design, making them a top choice for discerning homeowners.
3. Zephyr
Zephyr specializes in high-quality range hoods, renowned for their innovative design and superior performance. Zephyr range hoods excel in both function and aesthetics, and they are a great choice for those seeking premium kitchen ventilation solutions.
4. Bosch
Bosch is a renowned brand known for high-quality kitchen appliances. They produce a range of products, including efficient and stylish range hoods. Bosch range hoods offer advanced technology, robust performance, and sleek designs, and their hoods are a wonderful addition to any modern kitchen.
5. JennAir
JennAir specializes in high-end kitchen appliances, including JennAir range hoods. Known for their sleek design and innovative technology, JennAir range hoods offer premium ventilation and combine style and top-notch performance, perfect for those looking to upgrade their kitchen aesthetic.
6. Broan
Broan is a trusted brand specializing in ventilation solutions, notably Broan range hoods. Renowned for quality and innovation, their hoods effectively remove smoke and odors, offering reliable performance for cleaner, more comfortable kitchens.
→ Learn more: 9 Best Range Hoods for Every Type of Kitchen
Top Ductless Range Hoods From Friedmans
Now that you have a strong understanding of ductless range hoods, let's explore some of the top options available at Friedmans Appliance.
Dacor® Professional 46" Stainless Steel Downdraft Ventilation
This downdraft range hood offers powerful smoke and odor extraction, ensuring a cleaner kitchen environment. With its sleek stainless steel design, it seamlessly integrates into modern kitchens, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Its large size covers bigger cooking surfaces, making it a great option for professional-grade kitchens. Additionally, its intuitive controls and multiple fan speeds offer customizable ventilation options for various cooking needs.
- Model: HRV46S
- Dimensions:
- Maximum CFM: 1,100
Zephyr Lift 36" Stainless Steel Downdraft Ventilation
This downdraft range hood excels in both form and function. Its sleek stainless steel design complements modern kitchens, and with its powerful extraction, it efficiently eliminates smoke and odors in minutes. The remote control and retractable functions it offers add convenience to its list of benefits, making it a stylish and practical choice for any home.
- Model: DLI-E36ASX
- Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 2.25” D
- Maximum CFM: 1,000
Bosch® 800 Series 31" Stainless Steel Downdraft Ventilation
Bosch’s ductless range hood insert stands out as an excellent choice for your kitchen. It is rated highly in both performance and aesthetics, as its stainless steel exterior complements any modern kitchen. Its powerful fan swiftly clears smoke and odors, while dishwasher-safe filters help simplify the maintenance of this downdraft. Additionally, it offers multiple speed options for customized ventilation control.
- Model: HDD80051UC
- Dimensions: 29.38” H x 31” W x 2.75” D
- Maximum CFM: 600
JennAir® 4” Stainless Steel Modular Downdraft Ventilation
This model is a sleek addition to modern kitchens. Its compact design seamlessly integrates, saving space in the room for other desired appliances. This powerful unit efficiently clears cooking byproducts with variable fan speeds, and its stainless steel finish adds a touch of sophistication, while dishwasher-safe filters make it easy to maintain, so there is little to no extra work for you.
- Model: JVD0303GS
- Dimensions: 0.75” H x 3.88” W x 21” D
- Maximum CFM: 350
Broan® Buez1 Series 36" White Ductless Under Cabinet Range Hood
This range hood combines style and functionality, and its modern design compliments any kitchen decor. Its ductless operation makes installation hassle-free. Plus, it is equipped with effective filtration, so it efficiently removes smoke and odors, ensuring a clean, pleasant cooking environment. Multiple fan speeds provide customizable ventilation so you can choose how intensely your air is filtered.
- Model: BUEZ136WW
- Dimensions: 6” H x 36” W x 17.5” D
DCS 36" Downdraft Ventilation System
If you’re looking for an incredible ductless island range hood, look no further. This model offers powerful, discreet ventilation for cooktops. Plus, its gorgeous exterior easily assimilates into any kitchen. Its robust extraction capabilities efficiently clear smoke, steam, and odors, ensuring a comfortable cooking environment. Additionally, it's equipped with multiple fan speeds for customized airflow control.
- Model: DD36
- Dimensions: 8.25” H x 36” W x 2.13” D
- Maximum CFM: 600
FAQs: Ductless Range Hoods
What is a ductless range hood?
A ductless range hood is a kitchen appliance that filters and recirculates air during cooking, removing smoke, odors, and grease particles without the need for external ventilation ducts.
Are ductless range hoods effective?
Though some claim ducted range hoods are more efficient, ductless range hoods are still effective in their own right. They filter and recirculate air, removing some odors and particles, but aren't as powerful in heavy cooking situations.
Are ductless range hoods any good?
Ductless range hoods are quite good, and worth the purchase. They are effective in improving indoor air quality by filtering and recirculating the air, and they are great for kitchens where ducting isn't possible. Plus, they are easy to install, a bonus. But, you do need to remember that maintaining their filters is crucial for keeping them performing at their highest function.
Where to buy ductless range hoods near me?
Friedmans Appliance is a great place to start your purchase of a ductless range hood. They offer excellent customer service and have the largest variety of ductless range hoods you could want.
Why Trust Friedmans Appliance?
Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!
Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dish care and laundry appliance you need for cleanup.
Shop Range Hoods at Friedmans
See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop range hoods online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you find a ductless range hood for your home, whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: Get Familiar with Our High-End Appliances