If there’s no suitable outlet to the outside, start by choosing a cooker hood that’s explicitly compatible with recirculation, then check which filter or kit is designed for its exact model. Recirculation means you don’t need an external duct, but the filters will need maintaining. Check the dimensions, clearance above the hob, noise levels and airflow for recirculating operation. An extraction hood is only an option if you’ve confirmed that a duct can be installed and obtained any necessary permissions.
If your kitchen doesn’t have a duct leading outside, look for a cooker hood designed for recirculation, then find out which filter is compatible with its model. UFC-Que Choisir points out that your home’s layout can determine which installation method is possible.
If you’d prefer extraction, check the requirements for your property before choosing a hood designed to connect to a duct. Tenants may need written permission from their landlord. Work to the façade or communal areas must also comply with the relevant rules.
If you’re replacing or fitting an under-cabinet hood or integrated extractor, measure the cupboard and hob. Then check the cut-out, access to the filters and the installation clearances in the manual for the model you’re considering.
First, establish whether your home allows for recirculation only, or whether external extraction has been confirmed as an option. Then compare the filters, the space available and the specifications for the mode you’ll actually use.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility with your home | Check that the model supports recirculation. If you’re considering extraction, confirm that a duct can be installed and that you have any necessary permissions before buying. | With no confirmed external outlet, I want to choose a mode I can use at home without committing to uncertain building work. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Filters and maintenance | Find out which charcoal filter or kit is compatible with the exact model, then check what’s included and follow the maintenance instructions. | If I often cook without an external duct, I want to take odours, grease and filter maintenance into account. This is the main concern for around 29% of consumers. |
| Dimensions and installation | Measure the space, any cupboard and the hob; check the installation diagram and the minimum clearances specified for the model. | With a cupboard and hob already in place, I don’t want to choose an appliance that can’t be installed with the required clearances. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this fit. |
| Noise while in use | Compare the noise levels at each speed in recirculating mode, rather than relying on a figure given for extraction. | In an open-plan or frequently used kitchen, I want to know how much noise to expect while cooking. Around 14% of consumers put acoustic comfort first. |
Not all cooker hoods can switch between operating modes, and a charcoal filter won’t necessarily fit every model. Elica and Bosch advise checking that accessories are compatible with the appliance in question.
Before ordering, note down the hood’s exact model number and check which filter, kit and any other parts are needed for recirculation.
Depending on the model, the compatible filter or kit may need to be bought separately.
Figures published for extraction don’t necessarily reflect performance in recirculating mode. Electrolux, for example, lists the two modes separately for its LFG615X integrated extractor.
Compare the airflow and noise levels for the mode you’ll be able to install, taking the speed you’ll use into account.
For rented properties, ANIL points out that alterations to the property or equipment require the landlord’s written consent. Under Légifrance rules, work affecting communal areas or the external appearance of a block of flats is also subject to the relevant approval requirements. Changes to the exterior of an existing building may also require planning permission.
Before choosing an extraction installation, discuss your plans with the relevant people, such as your landlord, the property manager or the local council, depending on your home and the work involved.
A photo won’t tell you whether the appliance will fit inside the cupboard, leave the filters accessible or meet the required clearance above the hob.
Measure the space and check the diagram and instructions for the exact model. Don’t rely on installation dimensions from another model.
Worth considering if you’re comparing an under-cabinet hood and recirculation accessories for a specific model.
Worth a look if you’re after an integrated extractor for a wall cupboard and want to compare specifications for different installation modes.
An option to consider for duct-free recirculating set-ups and if you’re looking for a filter to match a specific model.
Worth a look for a built-in installation, but check the dimensions and filters for the version you choose.
These wall-mounted cooker hoods are featured to help you compare sizes for a kitchen where recirculation is an option. Before choosing, check the compatible filters, the space available and the instructions for each model to make sure it suits your hob.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 60 cm wall-mounted hood for a recirculating installation.
The product name also mentions extraction. Check which filter is suitable for this model, the installation clearances and the specifications for recirculating mode.
Image unavailable
Worth comparing if an angled 60 cm wall-mounted hood suits your space and you’re planning to use recirculation.
The product is listed with three speeds and touch controls. Check the compatible filter, installation clearances and the airflow and noise figures for recirculating mode.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have a suitable space for a 90 cm wall-mounted hood and want to use recirculation.
The product name mentions app control and four speeds, including an intensive setting. Check the available wall space, the installation instructions and the figures given for recirculating mode.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 60 cm wall-mounted hood that supports recirculation.
The product name says a charcoal filter is included. Check its model number when ordering replacements, as well as the overall dimensions, installation clearances and noise levels for the mode you choose.
Yes, as long as the model is designed for recirculation or can be converted to it, and has a compatible filter or kit. Filtered air is returned to the kitchen, and you’ll need to maintain the filter as instructed. Elica notes that not all cooker hoods can be converted from one mode to another.
As ANIL points out, tenants must get their landlord’s written permission before making alterations to the rented property or its equipment. If the work affects the outside of the building, check with your local council which formalities apply before starting work.
Where work affects communal areas or the external appearance of the building, it is subject to the approval requirements set out in Article 25 of the law of 10 July 1965, published on Légifrance. Discuss your plans with the property manager and check the leasehold regulations before ordering an extraction installation.
Under Article R*421-17 of the French Urban Planning Code, published on Légifrance, work that changes the exterior of an existing building requires a prior declaration if it doesn’t require planning permission. Check with your local council which procedure applies to your project before starting work.
Measure the cupboard and its cut-out, the space available for the appliance and its filters, and the width of the hob. Then check the instructions for the model you’ve chosen for the minimum installation clearances, and compare the airflow and noise levels for your planned installation mode.