More recently, during cooking, for ventilation, a window was used successfully. The appearance of a kitchen hood showed all the housewives that the windows are disastrously small for high-quality air purification. And as soon as do without such a technique?
Humbly hiding behind a panel of a wall cabinet or proudly shining with a polished glass surface is an indispensable cooker hood. It eliminates the smell of burnt food, does not let the aromas of food into other rooms. Today, the manufacture of this equipment is well established. Consumers do not have to choose between a suitable design and high performance. A wide range of models sometimes makes the buyer think hard. How to choose a hood that is ideal for a particular kitchen, like its design and will not go beyond financial possibilities?
Technique Size
So, we are faced with an interesting task - to consider hoods for the kitchen. How to choose the model that will fully meet the needs? Initially, it is worth remembering the rule: the hood should be no less than the hob. The larger the area of the equipment, the more effectively it draws in air. Ideally, the width of the hood should match the size of the plate. Even better, the area of the purchased unit was slightly larger.
The standard height of the hoods is 80-85 cm for gas stoves and 70-75 cm for electric ones.
Technique Performance
Before searching, you should definitely decide what performance is needed for your apartment. And, accordingly, consider just such models of hoods for the kitchen. How to choose the right category?
Decide what performance is. This is the amount of air processed. The value in cubic meters per hour is expressed. According to SES standards, the air masses in the kitchen should be updated at least 12 times per hour. Thus, if you need to learn how to choose the power of the hood, you should determine the volume of the room and multiply by 12.
After receiving the result, remember that this is a figure that should be based on. When wondering how to choose the right hood, select a device with a power reserve. So you can extend the life of the kitchen unit. Keep in mind that any bends in the air duct and dirty filters will significantly reduce power. Thus, for a kitchen of nine squares, the best option would be a technique with a capacity of at least 240 m3/hour.
As a rule, manufacturers specify two parameters characterizing cooker hoods in the instructions. How to choose the right one? One of them is an indicator of the unit not connected to the air duct. This is a smaller value. And the second one is connected.
Choose a cleaner with high values. Taking the hood “with a margin”, in the process of your culinary creativity, you can turn it on at low speeds. And this will increase not only the service life, but also reduce the sound.
Noise effects
This is one of the important parameters. When thinking about how to choose a cooker hood, be sure to consider the noise level. After all, some models are able to hum quite noticeably, drowning even a washing machine, wringing clothes. Sometimes aggregates give up to 75 decibels. At the same time, the SES norms derived a figure that is comfortable for the human ear at 40 dB.
Modern manufacturers mount various sound absorbing systems. Of course, completely get rid of the sound will not work.How to choose a hood with minimal noise attack? You can listen in the store as she buzzes. But this will not give a complete picture. Indeed, in shopping centers, as a rule, it is quite noisy. Therefore, it is best to refer to the instructions. Be sure to consider what the noise level is at minimum performance and maximum. Remember, tentatively the highest figure should not exceed 55-60 dB.
Principle of operation
Two operating modes of the unit are known - recirculation and air exhaust. In some models they are combined. This combination, being the best option, significantly improves the hoods for the kitchen. How to choose the appropriate way of functioning, we will analyze in detail.
Tap mode. It is called exhaust, or flow. This mode involves connecting the hood to the ventilation shaft. The advantage of such a system is the maximum removal of soot, burning, wet fumes and unpleasant odors. Air purification is very effective.
However, some houses built in Soviet times do not at all take into account the need to connect such equipment. Therefore, with the withdrawal of the pipe into the shaft, some difficulties may arise.
Yes, and the installation of the unit with flow output in itself is a rather complicated job. The main thing is to take into account several points. It is best to use a flexible duct (preferably PVC). This will allow a minimum of smooth transitions. Otherwise, the air will stagnate in the pipe, soot and burning particles will settle on the walls. And all this significantly slows down the speed of the hood. Do not narrow the duct as well. The unit, trying to skip a certain volume, will have to increase speed. This is fraught not only with increased noise, but also with rapid wear.
Recirculation mode. This is a filtering method. In this mode, the air entering the hood passes through a special system of carbon filters. Here he cleans himself and returns to the room again. This mode is less effective in combating odors. Since no filter is able to completely neutralize any “aromas”. It is proved that this mode reduces the effectiveness of the technique by approximately 30%.
The advantage of this hood is its ease of connection. Such a technique does not require connection to the ventilation shaft, so it can even be mounted independently.
Filter Information
To answer the question of how to choose a cooker hood, you should study its contents in detail.
Charcoal filter. They are used, as a rule, in technology with a recirculation mode. The air is finely cleaned with activated carbon. This successfully delays the smallest particles of soot and burning, slightly eliminates the smell. You should know that each filter has a certain period of operation. It is approximately 4-6 months. Next, there is a need for replacement.
Grease filters. They are located at the bottom of the unit. It is thanks to them that the air undergoes the initial, so-called rough cleaning. All models are equipped with such filters. This accessory retains large drops of fat, thereby perfectly protecting the inside of the hood, engine and fan. Some filters have a limited life. It is made of sintepon, paper, non-woven. Over time, they must be replaced with new ones. Reusable filters made of aluminum or acrylic do not require replacement. But monthly they should be cleaned with special degreasing agents.
Remember, all filters need timely care. After all, when the engine is clogged, it is forced to work with a load. This is fraught with the failure of the device.
Types of hoods
Pay attention to the design. Which hood is better to choose? Of course, one that harmoniously fits into the interior. It should be not only functional, but also combined with furniture, apron tiles.For example, if you are interested in a built-in kitchen hood, you can choose a Bosch model made of stainless steel. Having an excellent filter system, having excellent lighting, it is able to give even a small room a finished look.
Hoods come in a wide variety of shapes and designs:
- Recessed. Widespread view. Before choosing a built-in hood, you should determine which mounting method suits you. Distinguish a telescopic unit. This technique is not visible when inoperative. If necessary, it extends above the hob. And there are fully built-in hoods. As a rule, this technique is hidden from prying eyes by a hinged drawer or panel.
- Flat. Such hoods work most often in recirculation mode. Usually they come with grease filters, which are recommended to be replaced at least three times a year. This technique looks great under a hanging cabinet.
- Dome. Hoods have a fireplace shape. They attach this technique to the ceiling or wall. A very large group, the models of which vary in color, configuration, size. These units most often work by the method of exhaust ventilation.
- Island. Such air purifiers are used for very large kitchens. After all, the area and layout should allow to take the equipment to the center of the room. The unit is mounted directly to the ceiling above the hob.
- T-shaped. Ideal for lovers of strict geometric shapes. This technique is also attached to the wall or to the ceiling.
Air purifiers come with one motor and two at once. Naturally, the former are much noisier at work. After all, equipment with one motor often has to be turned on at full power.
Control Panel
How to choose a good hood? Take a close look at the control panel. As a rule, everything is intuitive. But a good technique will allow you to use it as conveniently as possible. So, the hood control is mechanical (or push-button), electronic and touch. Modes can be switched in steps and smoothly.
Mechanical control is quite easy to use, but causes some difficulties in cleaning.
Hoods with touch controls are very aesthetically pleasing in design. At the same time, they are also practical, since soot and fat do not accumulate anywhere.
The most highly efficient are electronically controlled air cleaners. They automatically adjust power when air pollution changes. Such a hood will turn on automatically during the start of cooking, provide the necessary lighting. Some models are equipped with a control panel and a timer.
Lighting panel
This point should also be given attention. After all, an important criterion for determining which hood to choose is lighting. Comfort during cooking completely depends on this.
The latest lighting system possessed by Siemens models makes it possible to adjust the brightness of the stream and change the intensity as desired.
How to choose a hood according to this criterion? The list of the following options will help determine the optimal backlight:
- Incandescent lamps. As a rule, low power devices are mounted. Such lamps are often found in budget models that have high energy consumption. They emit light a little yellowish and, unfortunately, often burn out.
- Lamps are luminescent. Their advantages are brightness, durability and low power consumption. But they also have disadvantages. This is the difficulty of replacing.
- Halogen lamps. Small in size, they significantly benefit in energy consumption. These lamps are durable and bright. Mount them in premium and middle class models.
- LED lamps. This is the most modern lighting. Lamps are characterized by high efficiency and durability.
Additional functions
Pay attention to the rather interesting features of some models. After all, when solving such a serious problem, how to choose a hood that meets your priorities, a person seeks to find a convenient and comfortable unit. Therefore, when buying, pay attention to additional functions:
- Remote Control;
- air ionizer;
- timer;
- residual stroke of the fan (after turning off the blades, they continue to rotate for some time, which allows for better air purification);
- contamination sensor (determines the degree and independently adjusts the optimal mode of operation);
- interval switching on (hourly the device turns on at minimum power, ensuring fresh air constantly);
- turbo mode (high intensity is characteristic);
- the inclusion of lighting while approaching a person;
- filter indicator (signals clogging).
Hoods Overview
Among such equipment there are ordinary household appliances, and there are unsurpassed perfect masterpieces that combine unusual engineering and design solutions that embody the most amazing and bold ideas. Exquisite and unique attribute will be such a cooker hood. How to choose the right device? Here you should rely only on your taste. We bring to your attention an overview of the best hoods.
Elica. The main features of the products are conciseness and simplicity, expressiveness of forms. The equipment is completed with high quality parts. The manufacturer is constantly introducing the latest technology. Models are widely in demand all over the world.
Cata. The collection of models is updated annually. Today they are also loved by the Russian buyer. Which hood to choose? The reviews of many users eloquently indicate the models of this particular brand. Consumers note the high quality of air purification, ease of care, etc.
Elikor Premium technology. It has a stylish design and impeccable functionality. As a rule, models have adjustable backlight, protective transformers, touch control, high power, stationary filters. All this makes them the most convenient to use.
Electrolux A wide variety of forms harmoniously combines with functionality. The leader is the model DD8765 M. Made of stainless steel, with neon lights, an elegant and powerful range hood fits perfectly into almost any design.
Krona. A true example of Italian style. A distinctive feature is synchronized fans, quite low noise. Models have a filter pollution indicator, timer, touch or electronic control.
Best The Italian brand makes the technique of unusual and unique design. Light, graceful hoods - a true embodiment of grace and style. Most models have grease filters, as if woven from metal threads. As a rule, all equipment is equipped with a remote control, additional noise isolation.
Faber. Using aerodynamic modeling, this commercial company has created truly unique silent hoods. Refillable metal filters are easy to clean in a dishwasher. All models have LED backlight.
Conclusion
Any housewife knows that cooking dinner for beloved households from several dishes exposes the kitchen to an invasion of intense aromas, an attack of droplets of fat. And in order to clean out all the corrosive particles of soot and burning, it is sometimes necessary to start a general cleaning. Therefore, the question of how to choose a hood is very relevant for most families. After all, such a clever technique will not only perfectly clean the air, but also allow the housewife not to waste energy cleaning after each meal.
