An extractor hob is a good choice if you want to keep the space above your hob clear and your cabinetry, electrical supply and chosen extraction setup are suitable for the model. A separate hob and cooker hood give you more flexibility to replace each appliance independently. A downdraft extractor can also avoid the need for an overhead hood, but it still needs a suitable layout.
The worktop cut-out and the space beneath it will determine whether an extractor hob can replace your old one. Que Choisir highlights the importance of dimensions when replacing a standard hob: before placing an order, compare the cabinet and worktop with the installation instructions for the model you’re considering.
An extractor hob in recirculation mode could be a good option if you want to remove the overhead hood, provided you allow for the compatible kit, airflow through the cabinet and filter maintenance. The plinth layout matters just as much as the hob position.
This gives you the chance to plan the cut-out, any duct route and the electrical supply together. If your proposed air outlet could affect a flat in a shared building, have the route and any necessary permissions checked before finalising the layout.
Start by working out where the air can flow and how much space your kitchen can accommodate for the appliance. Cooking features will only help you compare models once you know they can be installed in your kitchen.
| Consideration | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Worktop and cabinet | Compare the cut-out and clearances in the installation instructions with your worktop, cabinet and drawers. | If I’m keeping my existing cabinet, a hob that won’t fit beneath the worktop could derail the whole renovation. Around 31% of consumers put physical compatibility first. |
| External extraction | Ask a professional to confirm that an outlet is available and that a duct route can be fitted in line with the model’s instructions. | I’m open to having work done to vent the air outside, but I need to know whether the duct can actually reach the outlet. For around 25% of consumers, this is the top priority ahead of other criteria. |
| Recirculation | Identify the compatible kit and filter, as well as where the filtered air will be released. | Without a workable external outlet, I want to keep the space above the hob clear while still being able to maintain the filters. Around 25% of consumers prioritise this setup. |
| Separate appliances | Choose where the cooker hood will go and check the hob’s installation and power supply separately. | If I want to replace the hob without changing the extraction appliance, having two separate appliances matters more than an integrated setup. This is the top priority for around 19% of consumers. |
A conventional cooker hood remains above the hob. A downdraft extractor keeps that space clear and lets you keep the appliances separate, but you’ll also need to check there’s room behind or beneath the hob. If you’re considering an induction hob, Que Choisir reminds buyers that their cookware must be suitable for this technology.
The external width doesn’t tell you the cut-out dimensions or how much space the hob will take up beneath the worktop. Que Choisir flags this when an extractor hob is replacing a standard hob.
Check the installation instructions for the exact model before altering the worktop. Compare them with your drawers, cabinet supports and planned airflow route.
If the hob doesn’t fit, you may need to modify the worktop or cabinet.
Recirculation requires a filter or kit that’s compatible with the model. Que Choisir mentions these components, and Bosch, for example, offers separate kits and filters for its extractor hobs.
Before choosing a hob, check which parts are compatible, how the filtered air will flow and what maintenance is required.
You’ll need to allow for access to the filters and for replacing or regenerating them during use.
Permitted duct lengths and layouts depend on the installation. For example, Elica specifies a 6 m duct limit for some configurations, but not for every extractor hob.
Ask your installer to check the outlet and duct route. If you live in a shared building, ask the building manager what permissions are needed if the project affects the exterior or communal areas.
Switching to an induction extractor hob means you’ll need compatible cookware and an electrical connection suitable for the model you choose.
Check your cookware and ask a professional to inspect the existing circuit and the model’s requirements before arranging installation.
These ranges offer examples of different configurations and accessories to compare. Dimensions and installation requirements vary by model.
The range includes induction extractor hobs and separate accessories for recirculation or external extraction.
The inductionAir range combines induction cooking and extraction, with configurations varying by model.
The NikolaTesla range includes extractor hobs with ducting or recirculation solutions, depending on the collection and kit.
The range includes hobs with integrated extraction, which you can assess based on the space available beneath your worktop.
Both of these induction hobs have integrated extraction, making them an option for kitchens without an overhead cooker hood. Before choosing either one, check its extraction mode, accessories and installation instructions against your kitchen layout.
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Consider this hob if you’d like integrated extraction without an overhead hood and are looking for a model listed as 59 cm wide. The product name specifies four flexible cooking zones and mentions the CBEHKIT installation accessory. Check whether it’s needed for your chosen setup and what’s included. The installation instructions should also confirm the cut-out, space beneath the worktop and extraction mode that’s right for your kitchen.
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Consider this hob with an integrated extractor if your kitchen layout can accommodate a model listed as 80 cm wide. Before modifying the worktop or cabinet, check the cut-out dimensions and the space required beneath the worktop in the installation instructions. Also ask a professional to confirm the extraction mode, required accessories and whether the electrical connection is suitable for your home.
Not without checking the installation dimensions. Que Choisir points out that you may need a suitable worktop and cabinet for the replacement. Compare the cut-out, space beneath the worktop and clearances with the instructions for your chosen model.
Yes. The filter used for recirculation needs to be maintained in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. Also check which kit is compatible and where the filtered air will be released. Whether a filter can be replaced or regenerated depends on its model.
Yes, particularly if the existing circuit is old or its specifications aren’t clear. Before arranging installation, ask a professional to check that the circuit and electrical connection meet the requirements of the hob you’re considering.
First, check the proposed route and the rules that apply to your building. The ANIL highlights the permissions required for work that affects communal areas or the building’s external appearance. Speak to the building manager and ask an installer to assess the outlet before choosing a hob with external extraction.