Like most people, you most probably are wondering, Can I use an exhaust fan instead of a range hood? Kitchens emit so much smoke, smells, steam and even grease, usually due to all the cooking that happens here. Therefore, unless you have a good ventilation system in your kitchen, all the debris and residue would stick around. And everyone can agree that a kitchen full of residues, dirt and grime is not only unappealing, but it also poses serious health risks to homeowners.
This is why it is important for all homeowners to invest in a high quality ventilation for your kitchen. And while the most recommended option for kitchen ventilation are range hoods, more and more people are now opting for exhaust fans as their kitchen ventilation. However, the big question is, are exhaust fans really as effective as range hoods? Read along this article to find out!
Can I Use an Exhaust Fan Instead of a Range Hood?
| Yes, you can use an exhaust fan in place of a range hood. Exhaust fans usually work by venting the air through a duct to the outside, or to the inside of the roof space. However, while exhaust fans provide good ventilation in the kitchen, they are not as effective as range hoods. Unlike range hoods provide maximum air suction and perfect ventilation, exhaust fans only get rid of humidity and smoke in the kitchen. Still, they do a pretty good job when it comes to maintain good air quality in the kitchen. |
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When you choose to use an exhaust fan as your kitchen ventilation, position it in such a way that it is right above the stove and ensure that there is no obstacle between the stove and the fan. In most cases, a ducted system is recommended, if your budget and kitchen space allows.
Why is Kitchen Ventilation Necessary?
As mentioned at the onset of this article, kitchens emit steam, moisture, smoke and grease. These contaminants are usually produced during cooking and when carrying out other kitchen-related tasks, such as washing utensils. Kitchen ventilation eliminates these smells, smoke and contaminants, ensuring that your kitchen stays fresh and smells pleasant at all times.
Main Types of Kitchen Ventilation
There are different types of kitchen ventilation systems you can install. Consider the two most common ventilations and what each has to offer:
1. Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans facilitate the movement of contaminated air to the outside. They provide enough ventilation indoors, improving the quality of air in the kitchen. Also, they cool down different regions in the kitchen where heat levels are extremely high, eliminating moisture in the process. Therefore, besides providing good ventilation in the kitchen, exhaust fans also prevent the buildup of mold and mildew by keeping moisture levels in check.
Considering the features that they offer, exhaust fans are recommended for use in areas where humidity, toxic air, smoke and high temperatures may build up, such as in the kitchen and bathroom. However, they are not recommended for use in kitchens where heavy cooking is done on a regular kitchen. Rather, they work most effectively in small kitchens where cooking is only done in moderation.
Pros
- They eliminate moderate level pollution effectively
- Exhaust fans go for relatively cheap prices
- They remove humidity in the air, preventing growth of mold
Cons
- Exhaust fans cannot handle excessive pollution effectively
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2. Range Hoods
Range hoods are very effective when it comes to removing toxic pollutants and contaminants from the kitchen environment. They are usually installed directly at the top of stoves. They work by sucking humid air, then releasing it to the outside via a vent. And just like exhaust fans, these ventilation systems also improve the quality of air in the environment, keeping the room fresh and healthy.
However, while range hoods are quite similar to exhaust fans, they have additional qualities that set them apart from the latter. For example, range hoods are usually bigger and more stylish than exhaust fans. Also, they have the ability to handle higher volumes of toxic volumes, which makes them ideal for larger kitchens where heavy cooking is done on a regular basis. Furthermore, range hoods filter air more effectively than exhaust fans.
Pros
- Range hoods can handle heavy loads of smoke and contaminants.
- They add elegance into any room in which they are added.
- They improve air quality and reduce moisture effectively
Cons
- Range hoods tend to be quite pricey
Should You Choose an Exhaust Fan or Range Hood?
Are you wondering which ventilation system to install in your kitchen? Well, if yours is a small kitchen or you do heavy cooking only once in a while, an exhaust fan would be most ideal for you. Also, go for an exhaust fan if you are working with a limited budget and would like to get a high-quality ventilation system without straining your wallet.
On the other hand, if heavy cooking is a regular thing in your home, or your type of cooking usually leads to the accumulation of smoke, a range hood would be the best option for you. And if you are short on space or find vents to be too expensive, you can always go for a ductless range hood.
Conclusion
Every kitchen needs a good ventilation system. And range hoods provide just the perfect ventilation to keep your kitchen smelling fresh always. However, if you are working with a limited budget, is your question Can I Use an Exhaust Fan Instead of a Range Hood? the answer is yes the exhaust fan will still provide quality air flow in your kitchen, keeping you and your family healthy always!
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