When shopping for a range hood, one of the most important specifications to consider is CFM, or cubic feet per minute—a measurement of how much air the hood can move in one minute. Choosing the right CFM isn’t just about power—it’s about matching your kitchen’s specific needs with a range hood that delivers effective ventilation without overkill.
What is CFM in a Range Hood?
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and refers to how much air your range hood can extract per minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the ventilation.
Why is this important?
Removes smoke and odors: A higher CFM can quickly clear cooking fumes, grease, and steam from your kitchen.
Improves air quality: It helps prevent airborne grease and humidity from damaging walls, cabinets, or triggering allergies.
Protects your home: In gas kitchens, proper ventilation can reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup or fire hazards.
How Many CFM for a Range Hood
Here's a simple rule of thumb:
Range Hood CFM Calculator
For electric cooktops, you typically need 100 CFM per 10 inches of cooktop width.
For gas cooktops, you’ll need more power: around 100 CFM per 10,000 BTUs of burner output.
So, if you have a 36-inch gas cooktop with a total burner output of 60,000 BTUs, you should aim for a 600+ CFM range hood—and 700 CFM would be ideal.
Is 400 CFM Enough for A Range Hood
Whether 400 CFM is enough for a range hood depends on your cooking habits and kitchen setup:
400 CFM is enough if:
- You have a small to medium-sized kitchen (under 200 sq. ft.).
- You cook light meals, boil or steam food occasionally.
- Your cooktop is electric, not gas.
- The hood is mounted under a cabinet or against a wall, which helps contain airflow.
400 CFM may not be enough if:
- You have a gas stove with high BTU output.
- You do a lot of frying, grilling, or wok cooking (grease and smoke-heavy).
- The hood is installed over an island (needs stronger suction).
- Your kitchen is large or open-concept.
Recommendation: For more demanding cooking or gas ranges, consider 600–900 CFM. For standard use, 400 CFM can work—just ensure proper ducting and filters.
Shop Ciarra 400 CFM Range Hood
1. CIARRA 30 Inch Wall Mount Chimney Range Hood – CAS75206P-OW
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Powerful Suction (450 CFM): Effectively removes smoke, grease, and odors to maintain clean indoor air.
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Quiet Operation: Even at its highest setting, the noise level stays at a maximum of just 8.5 sones.
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Convertible Venting: Use as ducted or switch to ductless mode with the optional CACF003 carbon filter.
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Advanced Filtration: Comes with 5-layer aluminum mesh filters that trap oil and grease. Dishwasher-safe.
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Easy Control: Sleek push-button control for 3 fan speeds and LED lighting.
Stylish Stainless Steel Finish: Durable and modern, adding a premium touch to your kitchen.
Ideal for standard wall installations and homeowners who want a stylish, easy-to-clean hood with powerful ventilation.
2. CIARRA 29 Inch Built-In Under Cabinet Range Hood – CAS75913E-OW
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High Suction Power (450 CFM): Designed to handle heavy smoke and odors in compact spaces.
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Low Noise Performance: Quiet even on high speed—just 8.5 sones.
- Two Ventilation Modes: Convertible between ducted and ductless. Use CACF003 filters for recirculation.
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Stainless Steel Baffle Filters: Durable and easy to clean for long-lasting use.
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Strong Motor Housing: Built with cast aluminum, ensuring stable and efficient operation.
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Mechanical Push Button Controls: Simple to operate with 3-speed fan and LED lights.
- Energy-Saving LED Lighting: Comes with two 3W LEDs to illuminate your cooktop efficiently.
Perfect for under-cabinet or built-in installations—ideal for apartments, condos, or any kitchen where space matters.
Why Choose a 400–450 CFM Range Hood from Ciarra?
- Convertible installation for flexible kitchen layouts
- Quiet motor for a more peaceful cooking experience
- Affordable quality backed by 24-month warranty
Is it Better to Have a Hood with a High CFM?
Yes — but it depends on your cooking habits and kitchen size. A range hood with a higher CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) means it can move more air, faster.
- Quickly removes smoke, steam, and odors
- Helps reduce grease buildup on cabinets
- Keeps indoor air cleaner and safer
However, higher CFM hoods may:
- Be louder (unless designed for quiet operation)
- Require larger ducting
- Be more powerful than needed for small kitchens
If you're doing a lot of intense cooking or have a spacious kitchen, a high CFM range hood is better. Here are the 700cfm range hood recommendations.
Shop Ciarra 700 CFM Range Hood
Upgrade your kitchen with Ciarra’s powerful 700 CFM range hoods, designed for serious cooking, smart convenience, and long-lasting durability. Whether you're looking for an under-cabinet insert or a wall-mounted style, both options deliver professional-grade performance and modern design.
1. CIARRA 36-inch Under Cabinet Range Hood Insert – Model: CAS36928A-OW
- Max 700 CFM strong suction – eliminates smoke, grease & odors fast
- 4-Speed Touch Control with Boost function for precision airflow
- Wi-Fi + Voice Control (Alexa, Google Home, Smart Life App)
- Gas Leakage Detection for added safety
- Dishwasher-safe baffle filters + cleaning reminders
- Delay shut-off for hands-free air refresh
- Dual Venting Options: Duct out or add Plasma⁺ System for ductless use (sold separately)
- Durable stainless steel body with rust & heat resistance
Perfect for those who want powerful under-cabinet ventilation with smart control and sleek stainless steel style.
2. CIARRA 36-inch Wall Mount Range Hood – Model: CAS36313A-OW
- Max 700 CFM with superior motor housing for quiet but strong extraction
- 4-Speed Touch Panel + Boost Mode for flexible ventilation
- Smart Control with Alexa, Google, and Smart Life App
- Dishwasher-safe filters & filter cleaning notifications
- Dual Ventilation Modes: External venting or internal Plasma⁺ purification (system sold separately)
- Sleek wall-mounted design in premium stainless steel
Ideal for kitchens where style and performance meet. A bold centerpiece for open spaces or modern designs.
For most homes, 700 cfm is high enough, and anything higher may create additional noise and energy consumption.