What is a convertible range hood?
A convertible range hood is a hood that can be installed for either ducted or ductless ventilation. It can vent cooking air outdoors through ductwork or filter and recirculate the air back into the kitchen, giving you more installation flexibility.
How does a convertible vent hood work?
A convertible vent hood uses a fan to capture cooking smoke, grease, steam, and odors. When set up for ducted ventilation, it sends the captured air outside through ductwork. In ductless mode, the air passes through filters before being recirculated back into the kitchen.
Regular cleaning is important for maintaining good airflow and performance, especially when using the ductless configuration.
What is the difference between ducted, ductless and convertible range hoods?
There are three main types of range hood ventilation: ducted, ductless, and convertible. The main difference is how each hood handles cooking smoke, grease, odors, and airborne particles.
Ducted range hoods vent air outdoors through ductwork. They are a good option when your kitchen has suitable ducting and you want cooking air removed from the home.
Ductless range hoods recirculate air back into the kitchen after passing it through filters. They do not require external ductwork, making them suitable for kitchens where outdoor venting is not practical.
Convertible range hoods can be configured for either ducted or ductless operation. This gives you more flexibility if your kitchen layout or ventilation needs change.
| Type | How It Works | Ductwork Required? | Main Advantage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Ducted | Vents cooking air outdoors | Yes | Removes air from the kitchen |
 |
Ductless | Filters and recirculates air indoors | No | Easier to install |
|
Convertible | Can vent outdoors or recirculate | Depends on configuration | More installation flexibility |
What are the benefits of a convertible range hood?
A convertible range hood offers several benefits:
- Flexible ventilation: You can use it as either a ducted or ductless hood, depending on your kitchen setup.
- Easier installation: If ductwork isn’t currently available, you can install it in ductless mode without modifying your kitchen ventilation.
- Future-ready: If you plan to add ductwork during a future kitchen renovation, you can switch to ducted ventilation later.
- More choices: Convertible hoods come in various sizes, designs, and extraction capacities to suit different kitchens and cooking needs.
Type of Convertible Range Hood
Convertible range hoods are available in different installation styles and sizes, making it easier to find an option that matches your kitchen layout, cooktop, and available space. CIARRA offers the following convertible range hood options:
Wall-Mounted Range Hood
Kitchens with a cooktop or range positioned against a wall; offers strong coverage and a visible statement design.
Built-In Range Hood
Kitchens that prefer an integrated, streamlined look, with the hood fitted into cabinetry or a custom enclosure.
Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Compact or traditional kitchens where the hood is installed directly beneath an existing cabinet to save space.
20 inch
Suitable for compact cooking areas and smaller kitchens
24 inch
A practical choice for smaller cooktops and limited spaces
29 inch
Designed for kitchens needing slightly more coverage
30 inch
A common size for standard residential cooktops
34 inch
Provides wider coverage for larger cooking areas
36 inch
Ideal for wider cooktops and spacious kitchen layouts
| Key Factor | Quick Rule / Formula |
|---|---|
| Hood Size | Hood width ≥ cooktop width; for better capture, go 3–6 in. wider. |
| CFM | Electric: ~100 CFM per 12 in. of width; Gas: ~100–120 CFM per burner. |
| Noise Level | Lower dB/sones = quieter; aim for ≤60 dB for everyday comfort. |
| Charcoal Filters | Ductless = carbon filter required; replace about every 2–4 months. |
| Installation | Check: duct size + vent route + mounting height + power supply. |
| Features | More cooking = more speeds/controls; LED + timer = useful convenience features. |
How do you install a convertible range hood?
If you have purchased a Ciarra product, you can find the corresponding video and user manual by searching for your model number:
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