Finding a range hood can be difficult, especially when you don't know where to start. This guide will walk you through the steps of finding the perfect range hood for your installation! 

Step 1 - Understanding your cooktop

One of the first steps to finding the proper range hood for your installation is

• Knowing what kind of cooktop you have.
• Knowing how BTU (British Thermal Unit) plays a part in finding the right CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute).
• The type of culinary activities that will occur on the cooktop.

Gas, Propane, BBQ, electric, and induction cooktops all have their own recommended CFM requirements and ducting sizes. Gas, propane, and BBQ cooktops typically require 8" or 10" ducting as to where induction and electric cooktops typically only require 6" ducting. 

Understanding Gas Cooktops

Gas cooktops generally necessitate a minimum duct size of 8 inches, or 10 inches for high BTU ranges. This requirement stems from the fact that gas cooktops typically operate at higher temperatures than standard induction or electric cooktops due to their open flame burners. Consequently, gas cooktops generate a greater amount of smoke and steam, as well as transport more oils from the cooking process into the air. It is important to note that the maximum CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) that can be effectively managed through a 6-inch duct while maintaining an appropriate sone level is 600 CFM. Therefore, it is strongly advised to utilize a minimum of 700 CFM when operating a gas cooktop; however, this recommendation may vary based on the total BTU output of the burners.

Understanding Induction/Electric Cooktops

Induction and electric cooktops operate at lower temperatures compared to gas or propane cooktops due to the absence of open flame burners. Consequently, it is often feasible to utilize 6-inch ducting, particularly in instances where space constraints exist within the building or where building codes necessitate such specifications. It is advisable to ensure a minimum airflow capacity of 450 CFM for the effective operation of these cooktops. 

Understanding Propane/BBQ Cooktops

It is advisable for BBQ cooktops to utilize 10-inch ducting with a minimum airflow capacity of 1200 CFM. While 8-inch ducting may be permissible, it will restrict the performance when used with a BBQ that produces significant smoke. BBQ cooktops generally emit substantial volumes of smoke as a result of grilling steaks, hot dogs, and various other meats and vegetables.

Understanding the total BTU 

To determine the total BTU output of your cooktop, this information can typically be found in the cooktop's manual or on a label affixed to the unit. Sum the BTU ratings of all the burners on your stove. For instance, if your stove is equipped with four burners rated at 15,000, 12,000, 10,000, and 9,000 BTU, the total BTU output would be calculated as follows: 15,000 + 12,000 + 10,000 + 9,000 = 46,000.

Apply the General Rule of Thumb

It is necessary to have 100 CFM for every 10,000 BTU of the stove's output.

Calculate the Required CFM

Utilizing the example above: 46,000 BTU divided by 100 equals 460 CFM.

Example Calculation

Here is a simple calculation applicable for the typical gas cooktop

For average cooking, you will need 1.2 CFM per square inch.

30" Wide Cooktop

24D x 30W=720 sq inch ÷ 1.2 = 600 CFM - Min. 6” Duct (8 " Duct Recommended)

36" Wide Cooktop

24D x 36W = 864 sq inches ÷ 1.2 = 720 CFM - Min. 8” Duct (10" Duct Recommended)

42” Wide Cooktop

24D x 42W = 1008 sq inches ÷ 1.2= 840 CFM - Min. 8” Duct (10" Duct Recommended)

48" Wide Cooktop

24D x 48W = 1152 sq inches ÷ 1.2 = 960 CFM - Min. 8” Duct (10" Duct Recommended)

54" Wide Cooktop

24D x 48W = 1296 sq inches ÷ 1.2 = 1080 CFM - Min. 10” Duct

60" Wide Cooktop

24D x 60W = 1440 sq inches ÷ 1.2 = 1200 CFM - Min. 2 x 8" Duct (2 x 10" Ducts Recommended)

Step 2: Understanding your duct size

For more information regarding duct sizes, please visit our other helpful guide located here.

Your ductwork plays a crucial role in achieving reduced noise levels and optimal efficiency. It is essential to determine the size of the ducting in your residence prior to selecting a range hood for your cooktop. The dimensions of your ducting will determine the maximum suction capacity. For example, if your ducting measures 6 inches, the maximum achievable airflow will not exceed 600 CFM. On the other hand, with 8-inch ducting, airflow can range from 650 CFM to 1000 CFM. Finally, if your ducting is 10 inches or larger, it can facilitate airflow of 1200 CFM or more. Generally, larger ducting allows for a quieter and more efficient range hood; however, utilizing ducting that is excessively large relative to a low CFM rating may result in diminished suction strength due to the increased area.

Understanding 6" ducting

6-inch ducting is capable of accommodating airflow of 600 CFM or less. This configuration is typically recommended for most induction, electric, and certain lower-end gas cooktops. If you are currently utilizing a microwave to vent cooking fumes, it is likely that you are employing either 6-inch round ducting or its equivalent, 3 1/4 x 10 rectangular ducting. However, it is important to note that the presence of 6-inch ducting in the microwave does not necessarily indicate that the microwave has a capacity of 600 CFM.

Understanding 8" ducting 

8-inch ducting facilitates airflow ranging from 650 CFM to 1000 CFM. This duct size is typically recommended for residential installation. It is suitable for induction or electric cooktops and is designed for gas cooktops with a total BTU output of 70,000 to 100,000. Even in instances where the airflow is only 600 CFM, the installation of an 8-inch duct in your home will contribute to a quieter environment without compromising performance. 

Understanding 10" ducting 

10-inch ducting is generally advised exclusively for high-end gas or propane cooktops, as well as outdoor BBQ range hoods. This size of ducting is not typically compatible with the interior walls of an average household, and accommodating up to 1200 CFM within a residential space often presents challenges concerning makeup air.

Understanding Ducting Length and Bends

The permissible length of ducting for a range hood may vary among different manufacturers. Although two range hoods from distinct companies may appear similar, their specifications can differ significantly. At Victory, our range hoods are designed to maintain optimal efficiency with ducting lengths of up to 50 feet. However, it is essential to consider that the presence of multiple 90-degree bends in the ducting can reduce the maximum effective distance by approximately 5 feet per elbow. 
 

• x1 90 degree bend = No noticeable difference in performance
• x2 90 degree bends = Some difference in performance
• x3 90 degree bends = Noticeable difference in performance, avoid if possible
• x4 90 degree bends = Avoid

If you require lots of bends in your ducting. The best solution to this is using 45 degree bends rather than 90 degree bends. This will provide less obstructions for the airflow to reach the exterior of your home. 

Step 3: Understanding your installation type

The type of installation you require can come in a large variety of options. To learn more on the differences of perimeter suction and full surface suction please use the link provided here.

• Flush Ceiling Range Hood
• Insert Range Hoods
• Wall Mounted Range Hoods
• Under Cabinet Range Hoods
• Island Range Hoods
• Outdoor BBQ Range Hoods
• Downdraft Range Hoods

Understanding flush ceiling range hoods

Flush ceiling range hoods bear a close resemblance to insert range hoods, with the primary distinction being their installation above an island cooktop rather than against a wall-mounted cabinet. This installation approach generally does not feature any buttons, touch controls, or knobs on the unit itself; instead, these controls are located on a nearby wall. The rationale behind this design is that flush ceiling range hoods are recommended to be installed at a height of 48 to 60 inches above the cooktop. If the controls were situated on the unit, it would present a degree of inconvenience for users. Flush ceiling hoods are ideal for open-concept kitchen designs that do not obstruct any views.

Understanding Insert range hoods

Insert range hoods necessitate the creation of a custom cabinet or enclose with a cutout that corresponds to the dimensions of the specific unit. Once the cutout is completed, the unit is to be positioned into the cabinet from the underside. Some inserts require the unit to be installed against a wall, before the cover or cabinet can be installed overtop. Installation procedures may differ based on the model; however, comprehensive information will always be available in our online PDF manuals.

Understanding wall mounted range hoods

Wall-mounted range hoods are designed for installation against the wall above the cooking surface, typically at 30" from the counter. All Victory brand wall-mounted range hoods are equipped with ducting covers that accommodate standard ceilings ranging from 8 to 9 feet. The majority of our wall-mounted models have optional extensions for ceilings of 10 and 12 feet. These extensions are available for purchase to accommodate heights exceeding 9 feet.  

Understanding under cabinet range hoods

Under cabinet range hoods require a cabinet above. Instead of inserting the unit into the cabinet from underneath, the range hood would remain exposed on the underside of the cabinetry. Under Cabinet options typically allow for a bit more room inside of the cabinet for storage.

Understanding island range hoods

Island range hoods are designed to be installed above a cooktop that is situated away from the wall, centrally located within the kitchen. Unlike ceiling hoods, these range hoods do not rest flush or flat against the ceiling; instead, they utilize a chimney cover specifically engineered for 8 to 9-foot ceilings. Typically, the installation height ranges from 30 to 36 inches above the cooktop.

Understanding BBQ range hoods

BBQ range hoods are meant for outdoor use over a BBQ grill. All of our range hoods are rated for outdoor use as long as they're covered from the elements, but these range hoods are usually very powerful, and are not meant for installing inside of your home. The reason for this is because having a large CFM rate of 1200 CFM or higher can lead to the requirements of makeup air.

Understanding Downdraft Range Hoods

VICTORY does not offer downdraft range hoods due to their overall performance deficiencies. Downdraft hoods are designed to remain unobtrusive, thereby maintaining an open concept in the kitchen area. However, due to their limited coverage area, combined with the ducting and the downward displacement of hot air, these types of range hoods are highly inefficient and are therefore not recommended.

Step 4: Understanding your installation height 

The suggested installation height for any range hood, excluding BBQ range hoods, is 30 inches above the cooktop. Depending on the type of cooktop you possess, you may install your range hood at a height ranging from 24 inches to 30 inches above the cooktop.

Understanding Installation height above gas/propane cooktops

Gas and propane cooktops operate at higher temperatures compared to standard induction or electric cooktops. Therefore, it is essential to maintain an installation height between 28 inches and 30 inches above the cooktop. This height generally complies with existing building codes; however, depending on the total BTU output of your burners, the installation height may need to be adjusted to between 32 inches and 36 inches. The specific height requirements for your range hood can typically be found in the manual accompanying your cooktop. Professional style gas cooktops featuring six burners serve as a good example of the necessity for a higher installation. Always ensure to review the recommended guidelines in the VICTORY manual for the most accurate information for your model.

Understanding Installation height above Induction/electric cooktops

Induction and electric cooktops are very standard and typically require the range hood to be installed 24" to 30" above the cooktop. 

Understanding Installation height above BBQ grills

Barbecue grills operate at high temperatures and produce significant amounts of smoke. Consequently, barbecue cooktops are typically equipped with a lid that can be opened and closed to manage smoke or impart a smoky flavor to the food being prepared. To ensure the lid operates smoothly, it is generally recommended that the installation height of the range hood be set at 36 inches above the cooking surface. Although it is not advisable, due to the robust nature of most barbecue range hoods, it is possible to install the range hood at heights of 38 to 40 inches while still maintaining satisfactory performance. It is important to note that increasing the installation height of the range hood may result in reduced suction power and diminished smoke containment, as the full surface suction capability of barbecue range hoods may be compromised.

Understanding flush ceiling range hood installation heights

Flush ceiling range hoods are recommended to be installed at 48" - 60" above the cooktop for any type of cooktop being used. Most flush ceiling range hoods are not optimal for a BBQ or high end gas/propane cooktops.

Step 5: Understanding your ceiling height (Only applicable to wall mounts and island range hoods) 

All Victory range hoods designed for wall-mounted and island installations are rated for ceiling heights ranging from 8 to 9 feet. For ceilings exceeding 9 feet in height, ducting extensions are available for purchase for most of our wall-mounted and island range hoods. 

Understanding how to measure chimney covers to ceilings

When trying to understand if you require extensions, it's important to follow the method provided below.

The Twister model will be used for this example where the body of the unit is 12" in height and the chimney covers maximum height is 30 1/2" tall. The max height of the twister is 42 1/2" in height, including the body and standard covers at full length.

8' Ceilings = 96 Inches

9' Ceilings = 108 Inches (Used in example below)

• Floor to cooktop is 36" in height
• Installation of 30" above cooktop
• Body of the range hoods height 

With a 9' ceiling and installation height of 30" above a standard counter, the standard duct covers for the Twister wall mount model will just reach the ceiling. This means that the minimum height the Twister model can be installed is at 30" when using this range hood in a kitchen with 9' ceilings. It is important to ensure all measurements are done accurately when choosing your range hood and installation type.

Step 6: Understanding the width size of the range hood

Range hoods against a wall

If your cooktop is positioned against a wall, it is permissible to utilize a range hood that is the same size as your cooktop. This is due to the wall providing support for the smoke and steam that is directed into the range hood. 

Range hoods over an island

For island cooktops, it is strongly advised to select a range hood that is one size larger than the cooktop itself. For instance, if you possess a 30-inch island cooktop, we recommend utilizing a 36-inch island range hood. This approach will enhance coverage on all four sides of the cooktop, thereby ensuring the effectiveness of the capture area.