Range Hoods: Reviews

Updated February 2011

Best under-cabinet range hood

*Est. $145

Estimated Price

Although the Kenmore 5234 isn't as stylish as some range hoods, it's more powerful than many higher-priced models, and reviewers say it effectively removes smoke from the air. The relatively tall case helps capture steam and smoke, while the 360-cubic-feet-per-minute (CFM) blower draws it out of the kitchen. On top speed, its noise level is 5.5 sones (1 sone is about as loud as a running refrigerator). Features include two incandescent lights and an infinite fan speed adjustment. Owners say installation is easy for a do-it-yourselfer. This Kenmore range hood is 30 inches wide and is available in white, black, bisque or stainless steel. Similar models are available in 36-inch and 42-inch widths.

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Broan Economy 413001

Budget recirculating range hood

*Est. $45

Estimated Price

Most experts recommend using a vented range hood if at all possible, since recirculating models are much less effective. However, if a recirculating hood is your only option, the inexpensive Broan Economy 413001 gets very good reviews from users. This range hood passes air through a charcoal filter to reduce smoke and cooking odors. It has two fan settings (low and high) and a single incandescent light. Owners generally say this Broan range hood works well, runs quietly and is easy to install. The 30-inch-wide Broan 413001 is part of the Broan 41300 series, which includes models ranging from 21 to 42 inches wide in white, biscuit, almond, black and stainless-steel finishes.

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GE Profile JV936DSS

Best wall-mounted range hood

*Est. $820

Estimated Price

Wall-mounted range hoods are more expensive than under-cabinet models, but they also offer better performance and, in many cases, more striking looks. The GE Profile JV936DSS has a 600-cubic-feet-per-minute (CFM) blower, and its noise level ranges from 0.4 to 7.5 sones. This range hood also includes four fan speeds, two halogen lights and two dishwasher-safe grease filters. Professional reviewers give this GE range hood very good marks for performance and features. Its one major drawback is that it does not include a chimney. You can buy one separately (*Est. $120) or hide the ductwork behind a small wall cabinet or soffit. The GE Profile JV936DSS range hood is 30 inches wide and has a stainless-steel finish; a 36-inch version is also available.

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Atlas Cavaliere-Euro SV218D30IM

Best island chimney range hood

*Est. $850

Estimated Price

Overall, island chimney range hoods are less effective than other types; with no wall to help direct smoke and steam, the range hood must work much harder. However, they do work much better than a downdraft hood, the other alternative for an island-mounted range. The Atlas Cavaliere-Euro SV218D30IM is one of the lowest-priced island chimney hoods on the market, yet it includes an array of features usually reserved for models costing twice as much. It has four halogen lights, six fan settings, electronic touchpad controls, a filter cleaning reminder and delayed shutoff. Its 900-cubic-feet-per-minute (CFM) blower produces 7 sones of noise on high, and its curved glass canopy helps capture hot air. This stainless-steel range hood is 30 inches wide. A 36-inch width is also available.

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