Island Chimney Range Hoods

Range hoods for islands are stylish but expensive

From a ventilation perspective, a range installed in an island is less than ideal. Without nearby walls to prevent smoke and steam from dispersing, island chimneys have to work harder to accomplish the same task. Still, some island models with high-CFM blowers achieve similar performance as under-cabinet and wall-mounted range hoods, and all do a better job than downdraft range hoods. For the best performance, experts recommend buying an island chimney range hood wider than the range itself.

Because island chimney range hoods are installed in the center of the kitchen, they're much more noticeable than other types. Stylish designs are the norm, and there's really no such thing as a budget-friendly island chimney range hood. Most cost upwards of $2,000, though a few are available for under $1,000.

The 30-inch Atlas Cavaliere-Euro SV218D30IM (*Est. $850) is one of the least expensive island chimney range hoods available. It has a 900-CFM blower and produces 7 sones on high. Features include four dimmable halogen lights, six fan settings, touchpad controls and delayed shutoff. Its aluminum mesh filter is dishwasher safe, and the range hood provides an automatic reminder to clean the filter after 30 hours of use. In terms of appearance, the Atlas range hood is just as attractive as range hoods that cost three times as much. It has a curved glass canopy, which isn't just for looks -- it also helps the range hood capture hot air rising from the cooktop. Although the Cavaliere-Euro isn't included in any professional tests we found, it does receive glowing recommendations from about 60 owners at Overstock.com. Owners comment that it looks great, works well and is fairly quiet on the lower settings. However, many also note that this unit is very difficult to install, even for professionals. The Cavaliere-Euro SV218D30IM is available in stainless steel only, in 30-inch and 36-inch widths. Its one-year warranty covers parts only.

In tests for smoke removal, the GE Monogram ZV1050SFSS (*Est. $3,000) is a top performer among island chimney range hoods. Its 1,080-CFM blower is the most powerful on any range hood in our sources, and professional tests indicate that it does an excellent job of clearing smoke and fumes. However, those same tests suggest that the fan is also fairly loud (GE doesn't disclose its noise level). Features include touchpad controls, four halogen lights, variable fan speeds, six lighting levels, a filter cleaning reminder and delayed shutoff. Although the curved canopy and powerful blower may be partially responsible for this range hood's performance, its 42-inch size is also a factor. With island chimney range hoods especially, a large canopy increases the capture area and allows less air to escape.

The GE Monogram ZV1050SFSS is available in stainless steel only and is backed by a one-year warranty for parts and labor. One problem with this range hood is its limited availability. We did not find it on either Amazon.com or Shopping.com, and a Google Products search turned up only three retailers that offer it. This, along with its high price tag, kept the ZV1050SFSS from earning a Best Reviewed slot, despite its excellent performance.

It's not uncommon these days for an island chimney range hood to serve as a decorative centerpiece in a high-end kitchen. The Zephyr Europa Torino ZTR-M90S (*Est. $3,000) is one range hood that appears to be designed for just that purpose. It has a conical stainless-steel chimney and a pale green frosted-glass canopy that, according to the manufacturer, "takes its shape from the simple elegance of the Martini glass." Other features include remote control operation, electronic controls, six fan speeds, delayed shutoff, filter cleaning reminder and two halogen lights. It has a 715-CFM blower and produces a moderately quiet 6 sones on high speed. While this model is unlikely to appear in professional tests, it does receive a recommendation from ConsumerGuide.com, which praises its powerful motor and "stunning design." However, it's important to note that the 36-inch-wide canopy's oval shape reduces its total capture area, possibly hampering its performance.