If you’re a cooking enthusiast with a flair for making your kitchen both functional and stylish, a convertible range hood might be exactly what you need. This versatile appliance can be adapted for both ducted and ductless installations, giving you the flexibility to choose the best option for your kitchen's needs and future plans.
Convertible vs Ducted Range Hood vs Ductless Range Hood
When choosing a range hood, you’ll encounter three main options: ducted, ductless, and convertible.
Ducted Range Hoods
These are the traditional option, venting smoke, grease, and odors outside your home via an external duct system. They provide the best air quality but require professional installation and a venting pathway.
Ductless Range Hoods
These hoods use carbon filters to remove smoke and odors before recirculating the air back into the kitchen. While easier to install and more cost-effective, they may not offer as powerful a clean as ducted models.
Convertible Range Hoods
A hybrid option, convertible range hoods can function in either ducted or ductless mode. This means if you decide to remodel your kitchen or move, you can easily adjust the ventilation method to fit your new space or layout.
How Does a Convertible Vent Hood Work?
A convertible range hood works by using a fan system that either pushes air outside (ducted) or filters it and recirculates it within your kitchen (ductless). In contrast, convertible hoods with recirculating ventilation use a series of filters to help clear the air. Depending on your kitchen layout and ventilation needs, you can adapt the hood to your preferred method of operation.
What are the Benefits of a Convertible Range Hood?
Adaptability: Perfect for those who may want to switch between ducted and ductless systems as their kitchen or home evolves.
If you’re planning to update your kitchen in the near future but need to replace your range hood now, a convertible model is the perfect solution. They offer the flexibility to adapt to both ducted and ductless systems, so you can easily make changes to your kitchen layout down the line without having to replace your range hood again. Whether you’re currently in a rental, dealing with complicated ductwork, or planning to upgrade your ventilation system later, a convertible range hood allows for both immediate and future convenience.
Style Options: Convertible range hoods often come in a wider variety of styles and designs, making them a great choice for homeowners who want both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Air Quality: Both ducted and ductless options improve kitchen air quality by removing smoke, odors, and grease, creating a more pleasant cooking environment.
How Do you Install a Convertible Range Hood?
Installing a convertible range hood is a manageable DIY project for those comfortable with basic home improvement tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Remove Old Range Hood (if applicable)
Step 2: Measure Vent Location
Step 3: Cut Interior Hole (6-inch diameter for ducted installations)
Step 3: Cut Vent Pipe Hole (for ducted systems)
Step 4: Attach Vent Cap (for external venting)
Step 5: Install Damper (if required)
Step 6: Connect Electrical Wiring (consider consulting an electrician)
Step 7: Secure the Range Hood with mounting screws
Step 8: Finish Installation by connecting wiring and installing vent covers
Each step is straightforward, and with a little preparation, you can have your new convertible range hood installed in no time.
Is a Range Hood Above Your Stove Really Necessary?
Yes! A range hood is essential for maintaining good air quality in the kitchen. Whether you're cooking up a storm or preparing a simple meal, a range hood captures smoke, grease, and odors, preventing them from lingering in your kitchen. It's a must-have for anyone who cooks regularly, and with a convertible range hood, you’re ready for any future kitchen layout or renovation.
What is the Best CFM for a Range Hood?
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures how much air a range hood can move. For optimal performance, choose a range hood with a CFM that suits your kitchen size and cooking habits. Generally, a range hood should have at least 100 CFM for every 12 inches of cooktop width. For larger kitchens or heavy-duty cooking, look for a higher CFM.
Related: What is Good CFM for Under Cabinet Range Hood
Why is CFM lmportant?
CFM is crucial because it determines the effectiveness ofyour range hood in ventilating yourkitchen. An under-cabinet range hood works by drawing in the air from your stovetop area,filtering out grease and smoke, and then venting the cleaned air outside or recirculating it. lftheCFM is too low, the hood won't effectively remove cooking contaminants, leaving your kitchenstuffy or smoky. On the other hand, if the CFM is too high, the unit may be louder than necessaryor waste energy.
Type of Convertible Range Hood
Here are a few of our favorite range hoods that are available to purchase at The Range Hood Store now! Ciarra offers a range of convertible range hoods designed to fit different kitchen setups and ventilation needs. Below, we explore three of their most popular models, all of which can be converted from ducted to ductless systems, giving you flexibility based on your kitchen's needs. These hoods are designed with performance, quiet operation, and ease of use in mind, perfect for modern kitchens and cooking enthusiasts.
1. CIARRA 30 Inch Convertible Under Cabinet Range Hood (CAS75918B-0W)
- Efficient Airflow: With a powerful 200 CFM, this range hood is capable of removing cooking smells and odors quickly, ensuring a fresh and clean kitchen.
- Low Noise: Despite its efficient suction, the range hood operates quietly with a maximum noise level of 6.5 sones at its highest speed, making it ideal for those who want a peaceful cooking environment.
- Ultra Slim Design: The 30-inch low-profile design makes it space-saving, perfect for smaller kitchens, condos, or apartments where every inch counts.
- Two Ventilation Modes: This convertible under-cabinet range hood can be installed as either a ducted or ductless system. If you prefer ductless, the optional CACF006 carbon filter (sold separately) is required for air recirculation.
- Advanced Filtration: The 5-layer aluminum mesh filters capture grease and oil, preventing odors from spreading throughout the kitchen. These filters are easy to clean, either by hand with hot water or in the dishwasher (avoid using corrosive detergents).
Those living in apartments or smaller homes looking for an efficient and space-saving range hood that can be adapted to their specific kitchen layout.
2. CIARRA 30 Inch Convertible Range Hood CAS75502-0W
- Powerful Suction: Equipped with a robust 450 CFM motor, this range hood removes smoke, odors, and grease efficiently, maintaining a clean kitchen environment even after intense cooking sessions.
- Low Noise: Designed for quiet operation, the maximum noise level is 8.5 sones at the highest speed, providing excellent suction without overwhelming kitchen noise.
- Two Ventilation Modes: This model can also be converted between ducted and ductless modes. If converting to ductless, you will need the CACF003 carbon filter for recirculation.
- Auto Shut-off & Economy Mode: The hood features a unique auto shut-off function with four preset timer settings. The "Clean & Fresh" function runs the fan at low speed for 5 minutes per hour, 24 hours a day, helping remove excess moisture and odors.
- Soft Touch Control: The stove vent hood features an easy-to-operate touch control panel for managing power, fan speed, and lighting, allowing you to adjust settings with a simple touch.
Ideal For: Homeowners who value powerful suction, efficient odor removal, and easy-to-use controls. This model is perfect for larger kitchens or those with frequent cooking needs.
3. CIARRA 30 Inch Wall Mount Range Hood (CAB75206P-OW) -Black Stainless Steel
- Powerful Suction: Like the previous models, this range hood features a 450 CFM motor, effectively removing cooking smells and grease from your kitchen.
- Low Noise: With quiet operation, it operates at a maximum of 8.5 sones, ensuring that your kitchen remains peaceful while cooking.
- Two Ventilation Modes: The range hood can be installed in either ducted or ductless configurations. To convert to ductless, the CACF003 carbon filter (sold separately) is necessary for air recirculation.
- Durable Motor System: The upgraded motor system offers exceptional performance, making it a great choice for long-term use and consistent ventilation.
- Advanced Filtration: The 5-layer aluminum mesh filters capture grease and oil efficiently, preventing odors from spreading. These filters are easy to clean in hot water or the dishwasher (avoiding corrosive detergents).
Those who prefer a stylish black stainless steel design and need a powerful, durable range hood that suits larger kitchens or high-intensity cooking.
Why Choose a Ciarra Convertible Range Hood?
Ciarra’s convertible range hoods offer the perfect blend of performance, quiet operation, and adaptability for modern kitchens. Whether you are renovating your kitchen or setting up a new one, these models provide a reliable, efficient, and flexible solution that caters to various kitchen layouts and ventilation needs. The ability to switch between ducted and ductless configurations ensures that these hoods can meet the demands of your cooking environment, now and in the future. Plus, their advanced filtration systems and user-friendly features make them a great choice for anyone who enjoys cooking at home.
Conclusion: Is a Convertible Range Hood Right for You?
If you value flexibility, style, and long-term practicality, a convertible range hood is an excellent choice for your kitchen. Whether you’re remodeling or simply upgrading your current setup, this versatile appliance gives you the freedom to adapt to whatever your kitchen—and home—may need in the future.