Range Hood Overview

A range hood (also known as a cooker hood) is a core appliance installed above kitchen stovetops. It rapidly absorbs, filters, and expels cooking fumes and harmful gases, improving kitchen air quality, reducing health risks, and preventing grease buildup on walls and furniture. It is an essential appliance in modern home kitchens.

Its functionality centers on “fume management,” with three core functions: First, extraction and exhaust—using fan-generated negative pressure to draw in stove exhaust, oil particles, and moisture. Second, filtration and purification—trapping grease via oil filters to reduce pollutant emissions. Third, odor reduction—high-end models utilize activated carbon filters to absorb odors.

During operation, the motor drives the fan to rotate at high speed, creating negative pressure in the smoke collection chamber. After being drawn in, fumes pass through the oil filter mesh. Large oil droplets fall into the oil cup, while residual fumes are pushed through the ductwork and expelled via the exhaust pipe—the entire process takes only seconds.

Core components include: - Smoke chamber (collects fumes; design impacts efficiency) - Motor and fan (power core; determines suction strength; mainstream models use quiet, durable fully enclosed motors) - Filtration system (intercepts grease to prevent oil buildup) - Ductwork and exhaust pipe (directs fumes; made of heat-resistant materials) - Control panel and oil cup (operation and oil storage)

Common types include: - Overhead hoods (consistent suction, suited for Chinese cooking) - Side-mounted hoods (high efficiency, space-saving) - Under-cabinet hoods (high capture rate, requires coordinated installation) - Ultra-thin close-fit hoods (aesthetically pleasing, suited for minimalist kitchens).

Modern models now feature automatic cleaning and smart connectivity functions. When selecting, consider cooking habits, space, and budget, prioritizing suction power, ease of cleaning, and quiet operation.