Do you need one in your kitchen? What is it and how it works? How to choose the one? So many questions, right? But don’t worry - we’re about to answer them all!
What is a cooker hood?
A cooker hood, also called an extractor hood, is mounted directly above the stove or hob and its job is to remove any grease and smell from the kitchen. From 2006, building regulations state that every kitchen built from that date onwards must have extract ventilation fitted. And the best way to meet these regulations is to choose a cooker hood that works for you and your kitchen. That way it’s safe, smoke and smell free at all times.
How to choose a cooker extractor?
There is a wide range of cooking hoods available however, stainless steel cooking hood is chosen most often because of a perfect combination of aesthetics and the highest quality. There are also three main factors that you need to consider when choosing the cooker extractor for your kitchen:
● the size of the extractor to properly clear the room: it should be at least as wide as your hob or stove. Then measure your kitchen and multiply that by 10 - that is your perfect extraction rate.
● the type of the extractor: you can choose from built-in extractors, canopies, chimneys, ceiling and island hoods, etc., depending on your kitchen size and personal preferences. It is always good to choose the extractor that is great quality but also easy to maintain, like stainless steel cooker hoods alpes inox.
● the key features: and again, that depends on your needs and cooking style. There is a lot to choose from - LED lighting, quiet settings, extraction speeds, auto timer, power boost for that extra smoke, etc.
How to install a cooker hood?
If you’ve never done it before, it’s best to trust a professional. But there are a few things that you should think about when fitting an extractor hood. You can choose from ducted or recirculating hoods. If you decided on a ducted hood, the standard ducting diameter is 15 cm - remember that the shorter the distance to outside the better. And also, make sure that the hood is fitted about 70 cm above the hob