If you can install a dedicated external outlet and a compatible duct run, first consider an extractor hob in ducted mode: UFC-Que Choisir says this mode works better when there is an opening to the outside. If there’s no suitable outlet, recirculation lets you keep extraction integrated into the hob, but you’ll need to maintain the odour filters. A separate worktop extractor, on the other hand, lets you choose your hob independently. In all three cases, check the cut-out, the space beneath the worktop and the type of ventilation system before you order.
In an open-plan kitchen or one with an island, you may want to keep the space above the hob clear. Your choice will depend on whether an air outlet is possible and how much room you have in the base unit.
If you can’t install a dedicated duct, compare recirculation options and check how to access the odour filters for maintenance.
Before replacing your hob, measure the cut-out, the cabinet dimensions and the clearance above the drawers or supports. The visible width of a new hob alone won’t tell you whether it can be fitted.
Consider this: if you can install a dedicated external outlet and a duct run that’s compatible with the hob and cabinet. UFC-Que Choisir says ducted extraction works better when there is an opening to the outside.
Things to bear in mind: the extractor unit and ducts take up space beneath the worktop. Don’t assume a shared ventilation outlet can be used as a dedicated extractor outlet.
Consider this: if there’s no suitable external outlet for dedicated ducted extraction and you want to keep the extractor integrated into the hob.
Things to bear in mind: filtered air is returned to the room, and odour filters need maintenance depending on the model. UFC-Que Choisir’s testing protocol assesses recirculation and ducted extraction separately.
Consider this: if you want to choose your hob and extractor separately while avoiding an overhead cooker hood. Novy, for example, offers worktop-integrated grille and tower extractors.
Things to bear in mind: you’ll need to allow space for the extractor, check that it’s accessible for cleaning and choose between ducted extraction and recirculation.
| What to check | Points to consider | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Fitting | Compare the model’s installation plan with the cut-out, cabinet and available clearance. Check for drawers, crossbars and the planned air route. | I’m replacing an existing hob and don’t want to find out later that the extractor takes up space needed by a drawer. |
| Air outlet | Find out what the existing outlet is for. For ducted extraction, check that there’s a dedicated external duct and compatible accessories. For recirculation, check the route for filtered air. | If I can’t create a dedicated external outlet, I want to choose a recirculation set-up that suits my kitchen. |
| Extraction and noise | Compare airflow, noise and test results for the same mode and at the stated speeds. UFC-Que Choisir’s testing protocol assesses ducted extraction and recirculation separately. | A quoted maximum airflow alone doesn’t tell me how the appliance will perform in the mode I’ll use. |
| Maintenance | Check the filter reference, how to access the filters, their care instructions and whether you can clean parts exposed to spills. | With recirculation, I’d rather know how to remove and maintain the odour filters before installation. |
An outlet you can see in the kitchen isn’t necessarily a dedicated duct to the outside. Mistaking one for an extractor outlet could make your planned installation unsuitable.
Have the existing ventilation system identified and the proposed air route confirmed before choosing an extractor hob in ducted mode.
The extraction system sits beneath the cooking surface. Even if the cut-out looks suitable, there may not be enough room for the appliance, a drawer or a duct.
Check the installation plan for the exact model, then measure the cut-out, clearance and any obstacles in the cabinet.
According to UFC-Que Choisir’s testing protocol, grease absorption can differ significantly between ducted extraction and recirculation. So a quoted airflow figure for ducted extraction doesn’t, by itself, tell you how the appliance will perform in recirculation mode.
Compare specifications and test results for the mode you plan to install, including those for odour removal and noise.
Odour filters need regular maintenance in a recirculating installation. Access to them also depends on the cabinet layout.
Check the filter reference and the model’s maintenance instructions, then make sure you’ll be able to remove the filters after installation.
Depending on the reference, filters may need maintaining, regenerating or replacing.
These ranges offer examples of configurations to consider. Check each model’s installation requirements and the cabinet it’s intended for.
Bosch offers induction hobs with integrated extraction, including the PVQ711H26E and PVQ811H26E models.
The NikolaTesla range includes extractor hobs designed for projects with a 60 cm cabinet, among other configurations.
The inductionAir range combines an induction hob with integrated ventilation. Siemens lists the ED611BS16E as 592 mm wide.
Novy offers both hobs with integrated extraction and worktop extractors in grille or tower formats.
Both of these hobs combine induction cooking with integrated extraction, making them options for a kitchen without an overhead cooker hood. Before choosing either one, check the product documentation for the extraction mode and installation dimensions that suit your kitchen.
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Induction cooking and integrated extraction make this a practical option for a kitchen without an overhead cooker hood. The product name mentions Flex zones with a Boost function and CBEHKIT installation accessories. Check which accessories you need, the extraction mode and the space available beneath your worktop for your set-up.
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This 80 cm induction hob has an integrated extractor, so you can cook without an overhead cooker hood. Before planning the installation, compare the fitting plan with your cabinet, then confirm the extraction mode and accessories that suit your kitchen’s ventilation system.
Don’t assume it’s a dedicated outlet to the outside. Ask a professional to identify your home’s ventilation system and confirm that the proposed duct route is suitable before choosing this installation mode.
No. An extractor hob in recirculation mode filters cooking air and returns it to the room. It doesn’t replace your home’s general ventilation, which must continue to operate as designed.
Start by considering ducted extraction: UFC-Que Choisir says this mode works better when there is an opening to the outside. However, check that the duct, the hob instructions and the space in the cabinet allow for the installation you have in mind.
Follow the instructions for the model you choose rather than relying on one maintenance schedule for all hobs. Before buying, check whether its odour filters can be regenerated or need replacing, how to remove them and how to access them once the hob is installed.
Measure the worktop cut-out, the cabinet dimensions and the clearance up to the first drawer or support. Also check the power supply, air route and type of any existing outlet, then compare your measurements with the installation plan for the exact model.