What Is a Ducted Rangehood and How Is It Different from a Canopy?
Rangehoods come in many styles, and the terms "ducted" and "canopy" are often used but sometimes confused. This guide explains what each term means and helps you understand which type is right for your kitchen.
What Does "Ducted" Mean?
"Ducted" refers to how the rangehood removes air from the kitchen. A ducted rangehood connects to a duct that runs through the wall or roof and vents cooking fumes, steam and odours directly outside the home. This is the most effective way to remove cooking smells and moisture.
What Is a Recirculating Rangehood?
The alternative to ducted is recirculating (also called ductless or filterless). A recirculating rangehood draws air through charcoal filters that absorb odours, then returns the filtered air back into the kitchen. It doesn't require any ductwork, making it easier to install. However, it's less effective at removing moisture and strong odours.
What Is a Canopy Rangehood?
"Canopy" refers to the shape and style of the rangehood — specifically one that hangs down from the ceiling over an island bench or peninsula, with a wider funnel-shaped body. Canopy rangehoods have a distinctive architectural look and are popular in modern kitchen designs.
Canopy rangehoods can be either ducted or recirculating. The shape (canopy) and the ventilation method (ducted or recirculating) are separate things.
Common Rangehood Types Explained
- Underbench rangehood — Mounted underneath an overhead cabinet above the cooktop. Usually ducted. The most common type in Australian homes.
- Canopy rangehood — Free-hanging above an island bench. Can be ducted or recirculating.
- Slide-out rangehood — Hides under an overhead cabinet and slides out when in use. Recirculating only.
- Integrated rangehood — Built into the overhead cabinetry. Available in ducted or recirculating versions.
Ducted vs Recirculating: Which Is Better?
Ducted is almost always more effective. If you have the option to install ductwork, ducted is the better choice for a kitchen that sees regular cooking. Recirculating is a good option where ductwork isn't possible — for example, in an apartment or in a kitchen where the rangehood isn't near an external wall or roof void.
What to Look For When Buying
When choosing a rangehood, consider:
- The width — it should be at least as wide as your cooktop, ideally wider
- The airflow rating in cubic metres per hour (m3/h) — higher is generally better
- Noise level in decibels (dB) — lower is quieter
- Number of speeds and boost function
- Auto-clean function if available
Oceania Appliances stocks a range of rangehoods in Sydney with free delivery and warranty. Contact us for advice on which model suits your kitchen.