Best Ductless Range Hood
Range hoods are invaluable pieces of kitchen equipment. They are responsible for removing unwanted odors, pollutants, and grease from the kitchen. They also come with a range of features, such as LED lighting, that aim to make the cooking experience far more enjoyable.
However, ducted range hoods are bulky. They also require an extensive and expensive setup. As such, they aren’t a very viable option for many people living in small condos and apartments, or those with a tight budget.
If you fall into one of these categories, there is no need to worry. In recent years, ductless range hoods have come a very long way thanks to innovative technology. There are a huge range of ductless hoods available today that work just as well as (if not better than) their ducted counterparts!
To find the perfect ductless range hood for you, check out the list below. Each one has been hand-selected according to its affordability, the quality of its construction, durability, and features. Take a look!!
Cosmo COS-5MU30
We just had to kick this list off with the Cosmo COS-5MU30 Ductless Range Hood. If you’re looking for a high-quality range hood, built by a reputable brand using cutting-edge technology, you need to check this one out.
This ductless range hood has a slim, sleek, and space-saving design. As such, it is ideal for smaller kitchens or those with limited space. If you’re in need of a range hood for your condo or apartment, this one would work well!
This type of range hood is actually a convertible one. This means that it can be converted to a ductless range hood with the optional Carbon Filter Kit. As such, this range hood is particularly versatile.
Unlike so many other range hoods, this one manages to be both efficient and quiet! The vent hood filters the kitchen without the obtrusive loudness associated with other range hoods.
In fact, this range hood has a superior multi-layer filtration system, making it very effective.
Finally, this range hood is very affordable, especially considering the quality of the construction and the efficiency of the venting process. As a bonus, it comes with a 3-year limited parts warranty and Cosmo’s USA-based customer service team is incredibly helpful!
I really like this ductless range hood. In particular, it has a wonderfully sleek design that looks just great in any kitchen. With this product, gone are the days when range hoods are bulky, ugly, and horribly loud!
Pros
- Space-saving design - ideal for smaller kitchens.
- Convertible - can be ductless or ducted.
- Quiet - doesn’t produce loud, obtrusive sounds.
- Multi-layer filtration system - provides superior filtration.
Cons
- Size - might be too small for some.
Broan-NuTone 413004
Broan has an excellent reputation when it comes to kitchenware such as range hoods, and the Broan-NuTone 413004 is absolutely no exception. This high-quality ductless range hood insert is perfect for people on a tight budget!
This stainless steel hood insert provides both excellent ventilation and great lighting over the stove. The non-ducted filtration system is very effective at removing smoke and cooking odors from your kitchen.
If you’re a little tired of range hoods that don’t provide adequate lighting (how are you supposed to create culinary masterpieces if you can't see the stove?), the effective incandescent lighting provided by a protective lamp lens in this range hood will restore faith.
This ductless range hood comes equipped with a 2-speed fan. The fan and light are controlled by separate rocker switches, making this range hood really easy to use. Thanks to the replaceable charcoal filter, it is also very easy to care for and maintain!
This range hood measures to be 30” and should be installed at least 18” above the cooker top. This makes it an ideal size for most average kitchens. To install, you have two options. It can be installed as hardwired or with an optional power cord kit.
I really like the design of this ductless range hood. It is well-built, sturdy, and comes with a number of simple but useful features. Considering the price, this ductless range hood from Broan really is a steal!
Pros
- Good lighting system - ideal for cooking.
- Separate rocker switches for light and fan - very easy to use.
- 2-speed fan - makes this range hood versatile.
- Affordable - ideal for tighter budgets.
Cons
- 2-speed - might not be enough for some.
Cosmo 63175
As you may have already guessed, Cosmo is one of the best producers of ductless range hoods. Every product they manufacture is of the highest quality, and the Cosmo 63175 is absolutely no exception.
First, it is necessary to mention that you can use this range hood with both a ducted and non-ducted setup. For a ducted setup, this range hood requires circular ductwork that has a diameter of 6 inches.
For the non-ducted setup, you first need to install the whole range hood in exactly the same way as you would if there was venting involved.
However, you don’t need to install the ductwork and the draft regulator. Once installed, you can insert the charcoal filters, and you’re good to go!
This range hood will work to very quickly ventilate your kitchen in a quiet manner. Thanks to Cosmo’s innovative technology, this range hood is far quieter than competing range hoods. This product will really elevate your cooking experience.
You’ll also be pleased to hear that this range hood is also very easy to clean. The ARC-FLOW Stainless Steel Permanent Filters are dishwasher safe and made from an extremely durable material.
I like pretty much everything that Cosmo produces. They provide incredibly well-built pieces of kitchen equipment that are made to last a lifetime.
However, it is worth noting that this model is more expensive than others on this list - but I think it is worth it!
Pros
- Ducted or non-ducted setup - very versatile.
- Ventilates quickly and quietly - makes for a great cooking experience.
- Dishwasher-safe filters - easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Price - more expensive than others on this list.
KOBE CHX3830SQBD-3
If you’re here to find a ductless range hood that is of truly premium quality, look no further than the KOBE CHX3830SQBD-3 model. Admittedly, this hood is the most expensive on this list, but it has a huge amount to offer.
First, it is constructed from durable 18-gauge commercial grade stainless steel. As such, it is an incredibly well-built and sturdy piece of kitchen equipment. It also has a sleek satin finish and a perfectly seamless design.
In addition to boasting a great design, the technical features of this range hood are equally, if not more, impressive. It provides 400 CFM at maximum power with 3 different mechanical push speed buttons to control airflow.
Additionally, it is equipped with multiple LED lights. These work to vividly illuminate your cooker top like no other range hood. This range hood truly provides a wonderful cooking experience!
I know that the price is likely to be quite off-putting, however, it is worth mentioning that Kobe backs this product with a full 2-year warranty. This means that you are covered in case of damages or mechanical problems in the first two years.
Whilst I do find the price quite eye-watering, I can’t help but love this ductless range hood. If you’ve recently refurbished your kitchen, and you want to fill it with the best of the best, this product is perfect for you.
Pros
- 18-gauge commercial grade stainless steel construction - makes for a very well-built and durable range hood.
- 400 CFM maximum power - provides excellent ventilation.
- 3-speeds - provides good versatility.
- Warranty - the customer is covered for 2 years.
Cons
- Price - far more expensive than others on this list.
Cosmo COS-QS75
If you’re looking for a premium piece of kitchen equipment but you can’t quite justify purchasing the Kobe product above, the Cosmo COS-QS75 might just hit the sweet spot for you.
This ductless range hood features 500 CFM airflow, a backlit touchscreen, a 4-speed fan, and twin centrifugal motors. As such, this range hood boasts a huge number of top-quality features that will make your cooking experience very enjoyable.
This product was built with cutting-edge technology. Cosmo is a brand that is dedicated to bringing its customers the best quality products at an affordable price.
Whilst this is one of the more expensive options in Cosmo’s range, it is definitely worth it considering the number of features.
This range hood has also been fitted with energy-saving lights. It is equipped with energy-efficient, 1.5-watt LEDs. They are very long-lasting and provide excellently bright, high-lumen lighting.
As a bonus, Cosmo offers a 3-year limited warranty. This means that their dedicated USA-based customer service team will be on hand to help if your range hood has any faults or problems.
It is probably quite clear by now that I am a big fan of Cosmo’s products. This ductless range hood hits the middle ground between premium and affordable.
It is perfect for those of you who are looking for a top-quality piece of equipment that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- 500 CFM airflow - provides excellent ventilation.
- 4-speed fan - provides amazing versatility.
- 1.5 watt energy-saving LEDs - provide great lighting.
Cons
- Price - more expensive than others (but worth it!).
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to purchasing kitchen equipment, the process can be rather stressful - especially if you’re buying a large and integral item such as a range hood.
Range hoods are responsible for keeping your kitchen well ventilated and well-lit. Essentially, they can either make your time spent in the kitchen more enjoyable or far more frustrating.
As such, it’s important that you purchase the right range hood for you the first time around. This pressure can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you take the price of range hoods into consideration as well.
There is a huge variety of range hoods available, each boasting their own unique features and hefty price tag!
That is why I have included a handy buyers’ guide below. It consists of everything you need to understand and consider to ensure that you make the most informed decision possible.
From the difference between ductless and ducted to fan speed settings and airflow, and everything in between, it covers it all! Check it out.
What Are Ductless Range Hoods?
Now, if you’ve found your way here, it’s likely that you at least have some idea as to what a ductless range hood is. However, to ensure that there is no confusion, I thought it would be necessary to start from the very beginning.
Rather than extracting air, like ducted range hoods, ductless range hoods work to recirculate the air.
They use a fan to suck in the air along with pollutants. Then, rather than removing the air from the house, they run it through filters and it returns to the room.
Many people opt for ductless range hoods because they don’t require ventilation ductwork, like their ducted counterparts.
Ventilation ductwork can be costly and take a lot of time to install. It also takes up a huge amount of space which can be detrimental in a small space.
Ducted Or Ductless?
Before we move on to how to find the perfect ductless range hood for you, it is important to be sure that it is a ductless range hood that you need, rather than a ducted one.
Check out the pros and cons below of both ducted and ductless range hoods.
Configuration
As discussed above, ducted range hoods need ducting. They also have top-venting and rear-denting configurations. Ductless range hoods don’t have a venting configuration because they don’t extract the polluted air.
As such, ducted range hoods take up significantly more space, and require a lot more effort when it comes to installation. If you’re unsure of what you will need from a range hood in the future, you can opt for a convertible one - these work as both ducted and ductless.
Suction
Ductless range hoods do tend to have a lot less suction than ducted range hoods.
However, this isn’t necessarily the case if you purchase a premium ductless range hood. Additionally, ductless range hoods are far quieter than ducted range hoods.
Effectiveness
Ducted hoods are generally considered to be more effective than their ductless counterparts. This is because they completely remove the polluted air from the kitchen and replace it with fresh, clean air.
However, this can create problems if the weather outside is particularly cold.
Things To Consider When Buying A Ductless Range Hood
Ok, now that you can be certain that you’re looking for a ductless range hood, let's get into the good stuff!
Below, you’ll find a range of things you need to consider to ensure that you’re spending your hard-earned money on a product that suits you and your kitchen perfectly.
Size
First, it is important to make sure that your preferred range hood matches the size of your cooker top. If it doesn’t, it won’t function as effectively as it should. As such, you will need to measure your cooker in addition to the space between your cooker and cabinet.
For the best possible results, your ductless range hood should be at least as wide as your cooker top - but the larger the better!
You should also check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that you have enough space between your cooker and cabinet for your preferred range hood (usually you need at least 18 inches).
It is worth mentioning that, even though larger range hoods are more effective, if your kitchen is particularly small there is a range of very powerful, sleek, and space-saving hoods available.
Filters
Ductless hoods require filters to work. These filters usually contain activated charcoal particles. These work to trap odors, grease, and smoke to ensure that the air in your kitchen remains as clean as possible.
The filters will need to be changed around once or twice a year to ensure that the ductless range hood is working properly. However, some products come with dishwasher-safe filters, which may be preferable for some.
Air Flow
Airflow is particularly important when it comes to range hoods. Airflow measured in CFM. The higher the CFM, the better the range hood will work.
However, a good CFM must be matched with high-quality filters. Having just one or the other won’t make for a very good range hood.
Noise
Ductless range hoods tend to be far quieter than their ducted counterparts. Generally, the higher the CFM, the noisier a range hood will be
If noise is quite a big problem for you, I recommend opting for a premium ductless hood, as these tend to have added sound-dampening features.
Fan Speeds
It is always a good idea to look for a range hood with two or three-speed settings. These will provide you with more than enough versatility whilst cooking. Any more settings are quite unnecessary.
Price
Finally, I thought that it would be important to mention the price. Ductless range hoods can cost anything from $80 to $2000+.
From my research, I have found that you can get a very good quality range hood in the price range of $100 to $700.
As such, there is no need to break the bank when purchasing a range hood. Don’t get sucked into fancy marketing strategies that convince you to purchase an all-singing and all-dancing range hood. Stick to your personal budget!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have some burning questions concerning ductless range hoods - don’t worry! I’ve also included a FAQ section to ensure that you leave this page as informed as possible. Check it out below.
Are Recirculating Hoods Effective?
Yes! Whilst they aren’t considered to be just as effective as ducted range hoods, ductless (or recirculating) hoods aren’t far behind!
To ensure that the ductless range hood that you purchase will do an effective job, ensure that it has excellent quality filters and a good airflow rate.
Do Recirculating Cooker Hoods Remove Moisture?
Unfortunately, no. Recirculating cooker hoods cannot remove steam or moisture from the cooking process.
However, they do efficiently and effectively remove odors, smoke particles, and grease. If you are very concerned about steam and moisture, I recommend that you purchase a ducted cooker hood.
Can A Ductless Range Hood Be Used With A Gas Stove?
Technically, yes. However, a ductless range hood isn’t the best option for a gas stove. This is because the charcoal filters will not capture all of the gas that is produced by the stove. As such, I recommend a ducted range hood if you have a gas stove.
Do Ductless Range Hoods Plugin?
Yes. Most ductless range hoods come with a cord and a plug. It is worth mentioning that it is also possible to convert most ducted range hoods into ductless range hoods using a recirculating kit.
How Do You Clean A Ductless Range Hood?
To ensure that your ductless range hood continues to function as it should, it is important that you clean the filters regularly. If you’re not sure how to do this, follow the step-by-step guide below.
- Fill a container with hot and soapy water. Add some baking soda if you have some for the best results.
- Remove the filters from your range hood. To do so, follow the manufacturer's instructions. This is usually a simple process.
- Soak the filter in hot and soapy water for some time (15 minutes or so).
- Scrub the filter. Use a non-abrasive brush if possible.
- Rinse the filter and dry with a towel.
- Replace the filter.
It is worth mentioning that some filters shouldn’t be cleaned and some can actually be cleaned in the dishwasher. As such, always check the manufacturer’s instructions before following these steps.
Is A Range Hood Really Necessary?
Absolutely. A range hood, whether ducted or ductless, will ensure that exhaust, chemicals, and smoke stay out of your kitchen.
Not only does it make the cooking experience more pleasurable, but it also significantly improves the air quality in your house.
