In modern kitchens, ventilation is key to maintaining a clean and fresh atmosphere, especially while cooking. If you're looking for an efficient and space-saving solution, a ductless range hood under cabinet could be the perfect choice for your kitchen. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about ductless range hoods, their advantages, how to choose the right one for your kitchen, and much more.
Are Under-cabinet Range Hoods Ductless?
No, under-cabinet range hoods are not necessarily ductless. They can either be ducted or ductless, depending on the model. If you're living in an apartment or a house where installing ducts isn't feasible, you might want to consider a ductless range hood. It offers convenience and ease of installation. However, if you're opting for a ducted model, it's recommended to have a professional installer help with the initial setup. If you're unsure or want the flexibility to switch between both options, you can also consider purchasing a dual-mode range hood that supports both ducted and ductless installation.
Where Does the Air Go in a Ductless Range Hood?
In a ductless range hood, the air is first drawn in by the fan, where it passes through a filtration system. Typically, this includes a carbon filter (or sometimes a combination of carbon and HEPA filters) that captures grease, smoke, cooking odors, and airborne particles. Once the air has been cleaned by the filters, it is recirculated back into the kitchen. Unlike ducted range hoods, which vent air outside, a ductless range hood relies on the filtration system to purify the air before returning it to the room. This makes ductless range hoods ideal for spaces where installing ducts is impractical, such as apartments or homes without external venting options.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Ductless Range Hood?
1. Easy Installation
Ductless range hoods are simple to install since they don’t require external ductwork. This makes them perfect for apartments, condos, or homes where venting to the outside isn’t possible. You can easily mount them under a cabinet or on a wall, often without the need for professional installation.
2. Flexibility in Placement
Because they don’t rely on ducts, ductless range hoods can be installed almost anywhere in the kitchen. This flexibility allows for more creative kitchen layouts and is ideal for spaces where ducted systems are impractical or too costly.
3. Cost-Effective Setup
Without the need for duct installation, initial setup costs are significantly lower. This makes ductless hoods an affordable solution for homeowners seeking a quick and efficient way to improve kitchen ventilation.
4. Energy Efficiency
Unlike ducted models that expel heated or cooled air outside, ductless hoods recirculate filtered air back into the kitchen. This helps maintain indoor temperature and reduces energy waste, especially in climates where heating or air conditioning is frequently used.
5. Simple Maintenance
Although filters need regular cleaning or replacement, ductless systems are generally easier to maintain than ducted ones. There are no ducts to clean, and filter replacement can usually be done at home without professional help.
6. Environmental Benefits
Ductless range hoods promote sustainability by reusing indoor air instead of venting it outdoors. Some advanced models feature reusable carbon or plasma filters that reduce waste and long-term costs.
7. Compact and Stylish Design
Many ductless under-cabinet hoods feature sleek, modern designs that complement contemporary kitchens. Their compact form fits seamlessly under cabinets, saving space while enhancing the kitchen’s overall appearance.
8. Suitable for Renters and Temporary Homes
Since they require minimal installation, ductless range hoods are perfect for renters or people living in temporary residences. They can be easily installed, removed, or relocated without major renovations.
How to Choose the Right Ductless Range Hood Under Cabinet
Choosing the right ductless range hood under cabinet depends on your kitchen size, cooking habits, and personal preferences. If you have a small or medium-sized kitchen, a compact model with moderate airflow is usually sufficient, while larger kitchens or those where heavy cooking occurs may benefit from a more powerful unit with higher CFM. Your cooking style also matters—if you frequently fry or cook dishes that produce strong odors, choose a hood with high-quality carbon filters for better air purification. For those who value convenience and modern features, consider a smart range hood with touch control, LED lighting, and adjustable fan speeds to match different cooking needs. Additionally, make sure the design complements your kitchen decor—sleek stainless steel or matte finishes can blend beautifully with modern cabinetry. Ultimately, select a range hood that fits both your lifestyle and space, providing the right balance between performance, noise level, and aesthetics.
Related: What is Good CFM for Under Cabinet Range Hood
CIARRA 30-Inch Under Cabinet Range Hoods – Key Advantages
1. CIARRA 30 Inch Convertible Under Cabinet Range Hood CAS75918A-OW ($159.99)
Key Advantages:
The CAS75918A-OW stands out for its ultra-slim profile and dual installation modes, making it perfect for condos and apartments with limited space. Despite its compact 30-inch size, it provides efficient 200 CFM airflow to effectively remove kitchen odors and smoke. With its convertible venting design, it can operate as either a ducted or ductless hood, offering maximum flexibility for different kitchen layouts. The 5-layer aluminum mesh filters efficiently trap grease and can be easily cleaned in hot water or the dishwasher. The two 3W LED lights illuminate your cooking area, while the 3-speed push button controls ensure ease of use. Its low-noise level (6.5 sones) and stainless steel finish combine quiet performance with modern elegance — ideal for small homes seeking style, performance, and simplicity.
2. CIARRA 30 Inch Under Cabinet Range Hood CAS75908A-OW
Key Advantages:
The CAS75908A-OW delivers powerful ventilation with an impressive 450 CFM extraction rate, making it suitable for heavy cooking. Its cast aluminum motor housing ensures long-lasting durability and stable performance, even with frequent use. Designed for dual installation (under-cabinet or wall-mounted), this hood suits various kitchen designs. Despite its higher suction power, it maintains a noise level of less than 8.5 sones, which is reasonable for its strength. The 5-layer aluminum grease filters efficiently trap grease and smoke, ensuring your kitchen remains fresh. With its brushed stainless steel finish, push-button controls, and bright LED lighting, the CAS75908A-OW combines robust performance and premium design — ideal for families or home chefs who cook regularly and want high power with durability.
3. CIARRA 30 Inch Convertible Under Cabinet Range Hood CAB75918B-OW ($159)
Key Advantages:
The CAB75918B-OW is a convertible range hood that offers both ducted and ductless installation, giving you full flexibility depending on your kitchen setup. Its sleek black finish adds a stylish, modern touch that complements contemporary interiors. With 200 CFM airflow and 3 fan speeds, it efficiently removes odors and smoke while maintaining quiet operation at 6.5 sones. This model includes the CACF006 carbon filter, making it ready for ductless installation right out of the box — a major convenience advantage. It also features energy-saving LED lights, durable 5-layer aluminum filters, and easy push-button controls for simple operation. Compact, quiet, and elegant, the CAB75918B-OW is a perfect fit for smaller spaces seeking both design and function.
Performance Comparison Table
| Feature | CAS75918A-OW | CAS75908A-OW | CAB75918B-OW |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $159.99 | $1999 | $159 |
| Airflow (CFM) | 200 | 450 | 200 |
| Noise Level (Sones) | 6.5 | <8.5 | 6.5 |
| Installation Type | Convertible (Ducted/Ductless) | Ducted (Vent Outside) | Convertible (Ducted/Ductless) |
| Carbon Filter | Optional (CACF006) | Optional (CACF006) | Included (CACF006) |
| Lighting | 2 × 3W LED | 2 × 3W LED | 2 × 3W LED |
| Control Type | Push Button | Push Button | Push Button |
| Motor Power | 100W | 200W | 100W |
| Noise Level | Low | Moderate | Low |
| Material/Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Black Painted |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 29.76" × 19.68" × 3.94" | 29.76" × 22.44" × 11.02" | 29.76" × 19.68" × 3.94" |
| Weight | 12.02 lb | 25.35 lb | 12.02 lb |
| Mount Type | Wall Mount / Under Cabinet | Wall Mount / Under Cabinet | Wall Mount / Under Cabinet |
| Warranty | 24 Months | 24 Months | 24 Months |
If you are looking for cost-effective options, the CAS75918A-OW or CAB75918B-OW are excellent choices that cover everyday cooking needs without a high price tag. For those who require maximum extraction power and heavy-duty performance, the CAS75908A-OW is worth the higher investment due to its stronger airflow, durable motor housing, and long-term reliability. Choose the model that best fits your kitchen size, cooking habits, and performance expectations.
FAQs
Can I convert a ductless hood to a ducted one later?
Yes, some ductless hoods are designed as convertible models, allowing you to switch to ducted installation if your kitchen permits venting to the outside. This usually requires access to an external vent and may involve purchasing additional ducting or components.
Why are some ductless under-cabinet hoods more expensive than others?
Price differences are mainly due to airflow capacity (CFM), motor quality, build materials, filter technology, and additional features such as LED lighting, quiet operation, or smart controls. Higher-end models may also have more durable motors or advanced multi-layer filters for improved performance.
Are ductless range hoods worth the price compared to ducted ones?
Ductless hoods are worth the investment in spaces where venting outside is impractical. They provide convenience, easier installation, and flexibility. However, they are generally less effective at removing heat, moisture, and strong odors than ducted hoods, so their value depends on your kitchen size, cooking habits, and priorities.
Are there dual-mode (ducted + ductless) under-cabinet range hoods available?
Yes, many modern under-cabinet hoods are dual-mode or convertible, supporting both ducted and ductless operation. This gives homeowners flexibility to choose based on their kitchen layout or change modes in the future.
How much electricity does a ductless under-cabinet hood consume?
Most ductless under-cabinet hoods consume between 100W to 200W, depending on motor power and fan speed. LED lighting is typically low-power (2–6W per bulb), so overall energy consumption is relatively low compared to other kitchen appliances.