Selecting the right size for a kitchen range hood involves the following considerations:
- Cooktop Size: The hood should be at least as wide as the cooking surface it covers.
- Kitchen Size: Consider the size of the kitchen and the volume of air that needs to be circulated. Typically, a hood should be able to circulate the air in the kitchen at least 15 times per hour.
- Mounting Height: Installation height can affect performance. Check manufacturer recommendations, usually 24-30 inches above the cooktop for electric stoves and 30-36 inches for gas stoves.
- CFM Rating: The power of the hood, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), should match the cooking surface's heat output. The general rule is at least 100 CFM per 10,000 BTUs for a gas range.
Always refer to specific manufacturer guidelines and local building codes for precise requirements.