Modern home kitchens wouldn’t be complete without range hoods. Using a ductless range hood will ensure that the air quality in your home will remain safe by absorbing most of the fumes produced while cooking. Range hoods suck it in and guide it to the outside through an air vent.

The traditional outdoor kitchens of people who cooked with firewood had chimneys that directed some of the gas. But even then, it wasn’t very effective. Most households now use either gas or electric stoves for cooking. In addition to burning during cooking, they also release fumes not as thick smoke, but as steam from the fire, scorched pans and dishes, and gases from the breakdown of food.

The new generation of indoor chimneys ensures that unhealthy fumes are safely disposed of and prevents grease deposits from forming on your cabinets and countertops. During cooking, exhaust hoods remove fumes, but there are now range hoods that filter out harmful odors and gases instead. These ductless range hoods are a popular choice.

The cabinet above the cooktop can be installed below most single-purpose ductless hoods. Unlike traditional range hoods, convertible hoods can be mounted either on a ducted or ductless (ventilated or recirculated) system. This opens up a lot of possibilities for mounting the range hood, like under the cabinet, on the wall, or even on a kitchen island ceiling.

If you live in cold weather, sucking out and replacing air can actually make your home colder, so ductless hoods are a wise investment if you want to keep your home warm. Due to ductless range hoods’ in 2023 recirculating function, they cause minimal heat loss.

1. Broan-NuTone Non-Ducted Ductless Range Hood

In the event that your kitchen is already dimly lit, adding a ductless hood range might worsen it. Because of the outcrop of the range hood, the existing light is likely to be blocked, which means you are not able to see properly. Cooking at night may become quite frustrating for you.

Broan-NuTone 413004 Non-Ducted Ductless Range Hood, designed to solve this issue, is able to solve this problem. Using a 75-watt bulb should be enough to provide you with sufficient illumination. It is also possible to replace it with an LED light.

The range hood is equipped with a protective lens that allows a uniform distribution of light over the entire area. However, even though the installation instructions aren’t particularly clear, everything should be straightforward. Because this model works with your kitchen cabinet as a platform, you do not have to remove it before installation.

The 30″ length of this model makes it compatible with cooktops that are 30″ or smaller. In addition to the 413004, Broan-NuTone 413004 Non-Ducted Ductless Range Hood is also available in other sizes. The range hood comes in dimensions of 21 inches, 24 inches, and 36 inches.

As well as that, you can also use the charcoal filter to eliminate unpleasant smells. Filters like this are exceptionally durable and should last around six months before they need replacing. Nevertheless, this is less convenient or cost-effective compared to reusable filters that can be washed in the dishwasher.

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2. COSMO Under Cabinet Range Hood Ductless

These compact ductless hood ranges fit well into compact kitchens thanks to their sleek design. Located under your kitchen cabinet, the Cosmo 5MU30 30-inch Under Cabinet Range Hood is aptly named. As a result, you won’t have to take out the cabinet or hassle with re-designing the layout of your kitchen.

Construction in stainless steel allows for optimal recirculation. With 200 CFM, you are sure to provide enough power to cook a wide range of meals. Additionally, the fan has three different settings to provide even more versatility.

If you wish to use recirculated air, you will need to put the lever on the fan on the air recirculation marking. This will force the front gaps to release air instead of through the air duct, forcing the hood to vent air more effectively. If you haven’t already done it, you’ll have to install the charcoal carbon filters.

Please be aware that the instructions accompanying this model are not very helpful. Cosmo ductless range hood installation might be challenging if you’ve never done it before. If you want to use an outlet, you’ll also need to install a pigtail plug.

This hood range can be made ductless by incorporating a charcoal filter. With this model, it is recommended to use the CFK4 Charcoal Filter. Despite your efforts, you are not provided with the required filter, thus increasing your time, effort, and expenditure.

3. COSMO Under Cabinet Range Hood

Those with an appreciation for technology will love this ductless range hood. A 30-inch Cosmo COS-QS75 Under Cabinet Range Hood stands out from the crowd thanks to its enhanced features. Remote controls let you change settings across the kitchen from the control panel.

With the twin fan, you are able to set the speed to four different levels. Suitable for a variety of cooking styles. Using the remote control, you can set a timer to regulate the length of time the fans run before they shut off.

Gas sensor functions trigger the hood automatically once the gas is detected. Consequently, the possibility of cooking without the range hood is reduced. Having a range hood can ensure that even if you accidentally leave the gas on, the fumes will be contained.

Baffle filters made of stainless steel can last a very long time, are easy to remove, and are dishwasher-safe. You are not required to change the filters as often. The filters may be cleaned and reused by running them through the dishwasher after a couple of months.

Furthermore, the manufacturer offers a comprehensive five-year warranty with this model. Essentially, it has a five-year warranty that covers all of the parts of the range hood. Due to its durable construction, the range hood is sure to last beyond the warranty period.

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4. COSMO Wall Mount Range Hood

For those who are specifically looking for a wall-mount range hood, this model will not disappoint. Stainless steel covers the outer surface of the Cosmo 63175 30-inch Wall Mount Range Hood. The stovetop cover has a coverage of 30 inches, so it can fit stovetops no larger than 30 inches in diameter.

The question is unlikely to come up after a model has been installed. Despite its low noise level, this range hood boasts a maximum decibel level of 65. It will be possible to have a midnight snack without waking your entire household up.

Control panels come with five pushbuttons, which are very easy to operate. This model features an impressive 720 CFM at peak performance. The best ductless range hood wall mount can also be operated at a low speed if you only want to circulate the air.

It is set with two degreasing filters made from stainless steel baffles that are specially designed to withstand wear and tear. These stainless steel glasses can be cleaned in the dishwasher, due to their construction. It is also possible to hand wash the filters in order to greatly extend their lifespan.

In spite of this, you may not want to choose this range hood if you have an especially small kitchen. Observe that the model occupies a decent amount of room. However, the model comes with a 5-year limited warranty, meaning it was built to last.

5. COSMO Wall Mount Ductless Range Hood

The Cosmo 63175S wall mount range hood is a great-looking option for ductless installation. With its buttonless control panel and permanently installed stainless steel baffle filters, this stainless steel hood is the perfect addition to your kitchen!

CFK1-TM on Amazon can be added to the 63175S by Cosmo to make it a ductless range hood that can be made non-ducted. Despite being more expensive on Lowes, this 30-inch ductless range hood already comes with a carbon filter. There are two carbon filters included with the kit, and one fits on each side of the motor.

In order for the air to be recirculated back into the kitchen, the top of the chimney needs to remain open (it isn’t visible). Featuring a 380-Cfm capacity, a 30-inch width, and three fan speeds, this ductless hood is ideal for small spaces. Integrated into the Cosmo wall mount range hood are two energy-efficient LED lights, each of which consumes two watts of power.

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6. Broan-NuTone Power Pack Range Hood

Our range hood is a good combination of cost and functionality, making it ideal for medium-sized kitchens. An insert designed to fit inside a custom cover, the PM390 Power Pack Range Hood Insert from Broan-NuTone fits perfectly inside a custom cover. You can customize a range hood according to your preferences.

As a result, this model will work seamlessly with a wide range of different hood covers. Due to its construction of aluminum, it gets especially light and durable. Despite this, the range hood is manufactured with a high level of durability.

Thanks to Heat Sentry technology, high temperatures are now much safer for cooking. A special sensor detects excessive heat so you never have to worry. The blower is then adjusted so that it runs at high speed to prevent your kitchen from becoming too hot.

Three different speeds are available, allowing you to choose and adjust the blower speed based on your needs. Its maximum airflow is 390 CFM, significantly more efficient than most competing models. Due to the amount of suction, the range hood is capable of dissipating up to 40,000 BTU.

Please note that with this model, the ductless kit is not included. You will need to locate the 357NDK Carbon Filter Kit to make it truly ductless, but, since it must be purchased separately, this model is not as cost-effective as others.

7. ZLINE Wall Mounted Range Hood

The ZLINE’s brushed stainless steel construction gives the kitchen a professionally designed look. A 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch, and 48-inch version is also available. Using the four-speed fan, you can exhaust up to 760 cubic feet per minute, which is enough airflow for a large range and heavy cooking. Two bright lights are also included along with dishwasher-safe baffle filters.

With this convertible model, you can use it with a ducting system or a charcoal filter. Almost every model can be used for both uses, so the user can choose whether to switch between the two or use the charcoal filter exclusively. It is necessary to install this system on ceilings that are between 7- and 12 feet high.

In the case of shorter or taller ceilings, extension kits are available. On the backside of the range hood, spot welds save the manufacturer some money, which is why it looks more expensive. Warping can occur with spot welds under certain circumstances.

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8. FOTILE Wall-Mount Range Hood

FOTILE JQG7505, the best ductless range hood to invest in, is the type you should choose if you have a lot of money to spend. Fotile’s flagship hood is more expensive than other range hoods on the market, but its dual centrifugal motors that operate with four fan speeds caught our attention. 

Based on the tests conducted by our team, we found that its extraction system operates quietly despite its motors providing efficient static pressure. The detachable oil filter makes this ductless range hood easy to maintain because it can be put in the dishwasher. 

Besides being capable of being converted to a ducted range hood, it offers 6 ft2 of cooking surface.

9. FOTILE Under Cabinet Range Hood

FOTILE has nothing more to offer us than this under-cabinet range hood from Pixie Air which boasts its ability to suction air at a rate of up to 800 cubic feet per minute.

While these under-cabinet hoods have powerful static pressure to keep 4-6 stoves free from fumes and grease, they operate at an extremely low volume of 37 decibels. Additionally, the aluminum mesh filters are replaceable, and they can be cleaned in the dishwasher. 

A feature of this range hood our home kitchen specialists appreciate is the illuminated LED light that makes food prep easier and more energy-saving.

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10. KOBE Under Cabinet Ductless Range Hood

The Kobe Brillia series is one of the best ductless range hoods on the market with a charcoal filter and uncompromising quality that’s both elegant and expensive at the same time. Despite being the most expensive hood in this review, it also offers a lot of great features.

As you will see from its elegant curves and carefully designed package, its stainless steel construction offers a touch of class and style to any kitchen’s design.

Moreover, the technical specifications are equally impressive, with a maximum airflow of 400 CFM, three-speed settings, two bright LED lights, baffle filters, and two carbon filters. You’ll have to stomach Kobe’s price to own this hood, but it comes with a 2-year warranty.

Buying Guide: Best Ductless Range Hoods

The idea that all ductless range hoods are the same must be reconsidered. There is a lot of variation in size, style, ease of use, and overall quality in even the top models. The following are some considerations when choosing the ductless range hoods reviews.

Size

Decide how large your ductless range hood needs to be before you start shopping. The size of the envelope should generally be the same size or bigger. Consequently, if your range is 30-inches wide, you’ll need a 30-inch or 36-inch ductless under-cabinet range hood.

Having a larger hood will ensure that all the emissions from your cooktop are captured. You should make your range hood approximately six inches wider if you have a kitchen island. The extra space will lessen the impact of the absence of a back wall, which will reduce airflow.

Ducted and Ductless

Let’s clear up some confusion about what these terms mean. The hood has a duct that carries water away from the kitchen. The effect is similar to a kitchen chimney. This means the fumes must leave the kitchen and be vented outdoors. You’ll need special pipes and vents in your ceiling and walls, especially if your house has multiple floors. The ducted range hood is commonly found in commercial kitchens and hotels.

A ductless hood can sometimes resemble its ducted counterpart. This technique recycles the fumes and releases them into the kitchen instead of sending them outside. The unit removes moisture, particulate odor, and other unwanted particles from the kitchen fumes. Carbon filters and charcoal additives are therefore frequently installed in ductless hoods.

Filters

It is a good idea to install ductless range hoods that feature carbon filters that purify the air by trapping odors and pollutants. Your carbon filters usually need to be changed every four to six months. Many filters have the advantage of being washable, which can save you money in the long run.

• The Suction

A ductless range hood usually has a weaker blower than a ducted range hood. The blower is designed this way and is not a concern. The airflow rating is generally around 200 CFM in top-of-the-line models.

• Fan Speeds

The speed that the fan should be running will vary depending on what you are cooking. When boiling water, for example, a low fan speed will be needed compared with deep frying. By selecting a fan model that offers a number of different settings, you will increase your versatility.

• Lighting

Today, ductless range hoods typically come equipped with multiple lighting options. You should think about how well-lit your kitchen is when choosing this feature. Make sure the lighting is bright enough and the color of the light is appropriate while you cook.

Noise

The blowers that drive the air carrying the particles need to be loud in order for the hood to work. The second reason is that larger or faster blowers with a higher CFM generate more noise. In the event that noise bothers you, you may be interested in premium hoods with noise-reducing features to keep noise levels low while blowing large amounts of air.

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Ease of Installation

Unless you already have experience with ductless range hood installation, you might find this process daunting. The instructions that come with many of these products aren’t particularly clear. When it comes to DIY you may not be adept at it, it is best to buy a product that comes with clear, detailed instructions.

Automatic Shut Off

For your kitchen to be as clean as possible after cooking, you should allow the range hood to run for a while. On the other hand, it is all too easy to leave the computer on for too long. When auto-shutoff is activated on an electronic device, it will turn itself off after fifteen minutes.

Maintenance

Filters are included in ductless hoods. They keep your kitchen clean. The surfaces of your wall and cooktop usually collect soot, food spills, and hot oil fumes. You can remove this grime from your kitchen through the fans on ductless range hoods. Filters collect dirt, so they require regular servicing to remove residual deposits. Choose a model that minimizes your manual labor.

A ductless hood should be able to last between six months and a year between cleanings. You should also check that the filter is easily accessible. Cleaning day won’t require you to remove your entire hood if it slides out. With a self-cleaning filter or one that can be maintained on your own, you could save a lot of money. You could also hire an external service technician at least twice a year.

Price

It is uncommon for recirculating hoods to cost more than $100 because of their low power rating and affordable construction. Although ductless convertible units are more expensive than ducted exhaust hoods, they cost about the same as high-end models: about $400.

Frequently Asked Questions