The Ultimate Guide to Integrated Cooker Hoods

Step into the realm of integrated cooker hoods, where style converges with functionality within your kitchen. As you embark on your culinary escapades, these versatile appliances quietly and efficiently remove cooking odours, smoke, and excess moisture while adding a touch of sophistication to your cooking area. Within this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various types, features, installation options, and maintenance tips for integrated cooker hoods, enabling you to make an informed choice and enhance your kitchen into a fresher, more enjoyable environment.

What is an integrated cooker hood?

An integrated cooker hood, also referred to as a built-in or concealed cooker hood, is a kitchen appliance designed to extract cooking odours, smoke, steam, and grease particles from the air generated during cooking. Unlike traditional chimney-style or wall-mounted cooker hoods, integrated cooker hoods are installed within kitchen cabinets or above the cooktop, often concealed behind a cupboard door or a custom panel to seamlessly harmonise with the overall kitchen design.

What types of integrated cooker hoods are available?

Integrated Cooker Hood: An integrated cooker hood is a concealed ventilation system designed to seamlessly merge with your kitchen's cabinetry or be positioned above your cooktop. This cooker hood type is usually installed within a custom-made cabinet or an enclosure that features a front panel harmonizing with the kitchen's overall design. When not in operation, the integrated cooker hood remains concealed behind a cupboard door or panel, contributing to a tidy and uncluttered kitchen appearance. Integrated cooker hoods are renowned for their discreet and unobtrusive aesthetics, making them an excellent choice for those who value a minimalist and coherent kitchen aesthetic.

Canopy Cooker Hood: A canopy cooker hood, also known as an under-cabinet or built-under cooker hood, is installed beneath a wall cabinet or an overhead structure above the cooking area. It remains partially visible while in use but can be neatly stowed away when not required. Canopy cooker hoods often feature a sleek and compact design, rendering them a suitable option for kitchens with restricted space. They deliver effective ventilation and air purification while preserving a more open and accessible feel compared to integrated hoods.

Key Differences:

• Visibility: The most notable distinction between integrated and canopy cooker hoods lies in their visibility. Integrated hoods are entirely concealed behind cabinet doors or panels when not in operation, whereas canopy hoods remain partially visible beneath cabinets or overhead structures.

• Aesthetics: Integrated hoods are favoured for achieving a minimalist and seamless kitchen design, as they fully integrate into the cabinetry. Canopy hoods offer a more traditional appearance and are typically visible as a functional kitchen appliance.

• Space Requirements: Canopy hoods are typically more compact and suitable for kitchens with limited space, whereas integrated hoods may necessitate more cabinetry and installation space.

• Installation: Integrated hoods often involve bespoke cabinetry work to create a concealed space, whereas canopy hoods can be relatively straightforward to install beneath existing cabinets.

• Accessibility: Canopy hoods are easily accessible for maintenance and filter replacement since they are typically mounted beneath cabinets. Integrated hoods may require additional steps to access and service.

Your choice between integrated and canopy cooker hoods will depend on your kitchen design preferences, available space, and your desired level of visibility for the appliance in your cooking area.

Things to consider before buying an integrated cooker hood:

• Budget: Establish your budget before you begin your search for an integrated cooker hood. Prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, features, and design. It's important to find a balance between your budget and the features you require. Keep in mind that a higher-priced model may offer additional functionalities or quieter operation, but there are also budget-friendly options that perform well.

• Hob Size: The size of your hob or cooktop is a critical factor in selecting the right integrated cooker hood. Ideally, the cooker hood should be at least as wide as your hob to effectively capture cooking fumes and odours. Measure the dimensions of your hob to ensure a proper fit. Some integrated hoods come in various widths to accommodate different hob sizes.

• Power and Extraction Rate: The power and extraction rate of the cooker hood determine its effectiveness in removing cooking odours, smoke, and moisture from your kitchen. Look for models with an appropriate extraction rate measured in cubic metres per hour (m³/h). Generally, the higher the extraction rate, the more powerful the cooker hood. However, it's essential to match the extraction rate to your kitchen's size and ventilation needs for optimal performance.

• Noise Level: Take into account the noise level of the integrated cooker hood, especially if you have an open-plan kitchen or if you value a quieter cooking environment. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). A lower dB rating indicates quieter operation. Some premium models come with features like a "silent" or "low-noise" mode for a more peaceful cooking experience.

• Ventilation Options: Integrated cooker hoods typically offer two ventilation options: ducted (external extraction) or recirculating (internal circulation). Ducted hoods expel cooking fumes and odours outside, requiring access to an external wall or roof for installation. Recirculating hoods filter the air through charcoal or carbon filters and release it back into the kitchen. Choose the ventilation method that suits your kitchen layout and installation possibilities.

• Control and Lighting: Check the control options available on the cooker hood. Many models come with easy-to-use push-button controls, touch controls, or remote control options for convenient operation. Additionally, consider integrated cooker hoods with built-in LED lighting to effectively illuminate your cooking area, improving visibility while you cook.

• Design and Aesthetics: As integrated cooker hoods are designed to seamlessly blend with your kitchen's cabinetry, pay attention to the design and finish that complements your kitchen's overall style. Some hoods offer customisable front panels to precisely match your cabinetry.

• Maintenance and Filter Replacement: Consider how straightforward it is to clean and maintain the cooker hood. Look for models with dishwasher-safe filters for hassle-free maintenance. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for filter replacement frequency to ensure optimal performance over time.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right integrated cooker hood for your kitchen, ensuring effective ventilation while adhering to your budget and design preferences.

What are the benefits of integrated cooker hoods?

These benefits provide insights into the advantages of both integrated and canopy-style cooker hoods, helping you choose the one that best suits your kitchen needs and preferences.

Where can I buy an integrated cooker hood?

At MyAppliances, we take pride in our extensive selection of integrated cooker hoods, catering to a diverse range of preferences. With a plethora of finishes and a wide spectrum of colours available, you can effortlessly discover the ideal cooker hood to harmonise with your kitchen's aesthetics. Our seasoned team of experts boasts decades of experience in curating dream kitchens.

If you're seeking further inspiration to enhance your kitchen space, explore our guide section, where you'll find an array of kitchen and appliance buying guides to aid your research.

Frequently asked questions