Kitchen extractor hood: how to choose the right model for your home

A kitchen extractor hood needs to remove smoke, steam, cooking odours and grease deposits without turning the room into an echo chamber. Yet all too often, the choice comes down to an impressive airflow figure or a marketing promise that’s hard to verify.

Before you compare models, take a moment to identify three common pitfalls.

• Confusing maximum airflow with real-world performance: a high figure in m³/h doesn’t guarantee effective extraction if the ducting is too long, has too many bends or is the wrong size.
• Overlooking the ventilation mode: a recirculation hood works well in kitchens without a duct, but it relies on suitable filters that are regularly maintained. An external extraction hood pushes air outside, provided the installation is permitted and properly carried out.
• Underestimating noise and maintenance: a noisy hood often ends up being used on a lower setting. A grease filter that’s difficult to remove or a charcoal filter that’s hard to find can also push up running costs.

The key checks to make before you buy

1. The width and layout of your hob

A 60 cm extractor hood is generally a good match for a hob of the same width. For a larger hob, a 90 cm extractor hood will cover the cooking zone more effectively, especially when several burners are in use at once.

Also remember to measure:

• the available width on the wall or inside the cabinet;
• the depth of the hood and your ceiling height;
• the distance between the hood and the hob, following the instructions in the manual;
• whether there’s an existing duct, a wall outlet or a cabinet that needs modifying.

A wall-mounted hood must be fixed to a sufficiently sturdy support. If you’re renting, a compact recirculation model or a portable unit can avoid irreversible alterations. That said, this type of solution is best suited to occasional use and smaller kitchens.

2. Airflow, weighed against noise levels

The airflow figure quoted in m³/h represents the volume of air handled under specific conditions. To compare models, also look at the noise level in dB(A) and the number of fan speeds available.

As a guide, the product sheets for the models we looked at show the following values:

• the Ciarra CBCB6201 model reaches 367 m³/h with a maximum noise level of 63 dB;
• the Ciarra CBCB9102-B hood delivers 650 m³/h and 59 dB at maximum;
• the integrated CIARRA ONE, 59 cm, offers several levels from 147 to 484 m³/h, with a noise level between 41 and 67 dB(A).

These figures are specific to each product and can’t be compared without taking the type of installation into account. In everyday use, a relatively quiet hood on a medium setting can be far more pleasant than a more powerful model that’s constantly run at maximum speed.

3. Recirculation, extraction and filters

In recirculation mode, air passes through a grease filter, then a charcoal filter, before being returned to the room. The charcoal helps reduce odours, but the filter must be checked and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. The metal filter, if it’s washable, also needs regular cleaning to prevent grease build-up.

In external extraction mode, air is directed into a duct. Check the compatibility of the outlet, the length of the ducting and any accessories you might need. Some models offer both modes, making it easier to adapt them to the constraints of your home.

LED lighting is handy for keeping an eye on your cooking, but it doesn’t replace the general kitchen lighting. Finally, check the energy class and the stated annual energy consumption rather than relying solely on a marketing claim.

Our selection, tailored to your needs

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget

Comfee PYRA17B-60 60 cm

Why this choice suits this profile: this hood is ideal for a standard 60 cm kitchen, with simple physical controls and LED lighting. It can work in recirculation or external extraction mode, depending on your home’s setup.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two ventilation modes mean you won’t end up with an appliance that’s incompatible with a kitchen that has no duct. The product page states that the charcoal filter is included.

Key feature and highlights

Stated airflow of 400 m³/h, three speeds, energy class B and a 60 cm format.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts

Ciarra CBCB9102-B 90 cm

Why this choice suits this profile: its 90 cm width and touch controls with Wi-Fi make it a great fit for large open-plan kitchens and users who want to centralise their settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page mentions both options: recirculation with charcoal filters included, or connection to a duct with an exhaust hose.

Key feature and highlights

Maximum stated airflow of 650 m³/h, maximum noise level of 59 dB, class A+++ and a stated annual energy consumption of 12 kWh.

Recommended for: Specialist needs and heavy users

Ciarra ONE 59 cm with integrated extraction

Why this choice suits this profile: this induction hob with built-in extraction is designed for open-plan kitchens and projects where a wall-mounted hood might block the view.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product combines cooking and extraction, but the product page states that the CBEHKIT installation accessories are sold separately. You’ll need to factor them into your budget.

Key feature and highlights

Four zones, two flexible zones, nine power levels and a stated extraction rate of 147 to 484 m³/h.

Frequently asked questions about kitchen extractor hoods

What power should I choose for a kitchen hood?

Compare the maximum airflow, the number of speeds and the noise level. An open-plan kitchen or frequent cooking may justify a higher extraction capacity. In a small kitchen, a compact, quieter model will often be a better choice. The ducting and the quality of its installation also play a crucial role.

Is a recirculation hood suitable for a flat without a duct?

Yes, that’s actually one of its main uses. However, it does require a compatible charcoal filter and regular maintenance. It shouldn’t be confused with an external extraction hood, which needs a connection to the outside and, if building work is required, the relevant permissions.

How much does it cost to run an extractor hood?

The running cost depends on the electrical power, how long you use it and the energy class. To compare models, check their stated annual energy consumption in kWh. Add the cost of charcoal filters when they’re needed, and check whether the metal filters are washable.