Homes without an external vent
If there’s no external connection, look for an appliance with a recirculation setting. The filtered air is returned to the kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes this from the way an extractor hood works.
Who are these options for?
Homes with a wall unit above the hob
An integrated hood can fit above the hob if the wall unit is suitable. Compare its internal dimensions with the appliance’s installation diagram rather than relying on the advertised width alone.
Anyone renovating their cooking area
A venting hob with recirculation is worth considering if you can check that the cabinet, worktop depth, plinth and air route all work with the kit supplied.
What should you check before choosing?
Your kitchen units will determine which type of appliance is suitable. Then check the model’s instructions to confirm its recirculation setup and maintenance requirements.
Wall-mounted cooker hood
Consider this if: the wall above your hob is clear and you want to keep your existing units.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible, and must be installed in line with the dimensions and clearances specified for your hob.
Integrated hood
Consider this if: you have a suitable wall unit that can accommodate the appliance above the hob.
Bear in mind: the advertised width alone won’t tell you whether the hood will fit inside the unit.
Venting hob
Consider this if: you’re replacing your hob and would rather not install a cooker hood above it.
Bear in mind: a recirculation system also affects the space beneath the hob and where the filtered air can flow.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Recirculation mode | Confirm that recirculation is available for the exact model, then check which starter kit and compatible filters are needed. Bosch states that its kits aren’t universal. | Without an external vent, I need to be able to install the appliance in the configuration specified by its manufacturer. |
| Available space | Compare your unit’s dimensions with the installation template. For a wall-mounted hood, also check the clearance above the hob. For a venting hob, check the worktop, cabinet and plinth against the kit instructions. | My wall unit needs to fit an integrated hood, or my base unit needs to leave enough room for a venting hob’s system. |
| Filter maintenance | Find the carbon filter reference and check the instructions for replacing or cleaning it. Electrolux gives a lifespan of 4 to 6 months for OdourClean Standard and 2 to 3 years for OdourClean Plus; these timings apply to those filters. | I’d like to know how to maintain compatible consumables before choosing a model. |
| Odours and noise | Where available, compare results for recirculation mode with the specified filter fitted, as well as the noise level in that configuration. UFC-Que Choisir notes that installation mode affects performance and noise. | I cook in a room where odours and noise matter. A stated extraction rate without details of the operating mode doesn’t answer those questions on its own. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a convertible hood comes with everything you need
Recirculation may require a kit made specifically for your hood model. Bosch says its starter kits for recirculation aren’t universal.
Note the appliance’s exact model reference and check that it matches the starter kit and replacement filter before ordering.
Depending on the model, you may need to buy the kit and filters separately.
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Assuming the advertised width is the installation size
An integrated hood needs to fit inside a suitable wall unit. Its width alone won’t tell you the cut-out size, depth or clearance required.
Measure the unit using the model’s dimensioned diagram. For a wall-mounted hood, also check the installation clearances for your type of hob.
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Choosing a venting hob without checking the base unit
The filtered air route depends on the system you choose. Bosch describes kits designed for worktops at least 60 or 70 cm deep, depending on the kit reference. Elica specifies a minimum plinth height of 6 cm for the recirculation setups it features.
Check the installation plan for the hob and its kit, including the worktop depth, space in the cabinet, any ducting route and the plinth height.
The recirculation kit, ducts and filters may be separate from the hob.
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Comparing extraction rates alone
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between recirculation and extraction results, and notes that installation mode affects performance, noise and running costs. An extraction rate alone doesn’t show how the appliance will perform with a carbon filter fitted.
Look for information that applies to recirculation mode and follow the filter maintenance instructions. Make sure you also maintain the kitchen’s intended ventilation.
A guide to the brands
These examples highlight specific configurations and accessories. Always check the instructions for the model you’re considering.
Bosch
The brand provides information on integrated hoods and recirculation kits, which must be chosen to match the appliance reference.
- Bosch describes the DLN53AA70 as a 53 cm built-in hood that can be used in recirculation or extraction mode.
- Bosch states that its starter kit for recirculation isn’t universal. Check compatibility using the E-Nr reference.
Electrolux
The French product page for the LFC316X wall-mounted hood describes a ductless recirculation setup with a kit included.
- For the LFC316X, Electrolux specifies minimum clearances of 50 cm above an electric hob and 65 cm above a gas hob.
- The stated maintenance intervals for OdourClean filters vary by reference. Check which one is suitable for the hood you choose.
Elica
Elica offers hobs with integrated extraction in both extraction and recirculation configurations.
- The brand’s documentation can help you check the kit and air route when renovating your cooking area.
- Elica specifies a minimum plinth height of 6 cm for the recirculation setups it features. Check the other dimensions for your chosen model and kit.
Franke
Franke offers integrated hoods as well as venting hobs that can operate in recirculation mode.
- These two formats let you explore either an appliance fitted above the hob or extraction integrated into the cooking surface.
- The extraction rate and noise figures for a particular integrated hood don’t automatically describe its performance in recirculation mode. Check the configuration and filter for the exact model.
Wall-mounted cooker hoods available on Joybuy
Both of these wall-mounted cooker hoods are listed as suitable for recirculation, with a carbon filter included. If you have a clear wall above your hob, compare their installation requirements and replacement filters before choosing.
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Heinrich's HDU 7622 SW, 60 cm wall-mounted cooker hood
For a kitchen without an external vent, this wall-mounted cooker hood is listed as suitable for recirculation, with a set of carbon filters included.
The product name gives an extraction rate of 300 m³/h, but doesn’t specify the figure for recirculation mode. Check the instructions for installation dimensions and clearances, as well as the references for replacement filters.
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Comfee' CH60A17EM400SS‑EU, 60 cm cooker hood
This cooker hood is listed as offering recirculation mode with an activated carbon filter included. It’s worth considering if the space above your hob is suitable.
The product name lists three speeds and an extraction rate of 400 m³/h, but doesn’t say that this rate applies to recirculation mode. The product description recommends installation by a qualified professional. Check the installation dimensions and replacement filter reference.
Frequently asked questions
Does a recirculating cooker hood remove moisture from cooking?
No. In recirculation mode, filtered air is returned to the room rather than being vented outside. Don’t rely on this hood to remove moisture from your home. Use the kitchen’s intended ventilation and air the room when possible.
Which filter does a recirculating cooker hood need?
Recirculation uses a carbon filter to help tackle odours. Choose one that matches the exact hood reference. Also check whether you need a starter kit: Bosch states that its kits aren’t universal.
When should I replace or clean the carbon filter?
Follow the instructions for the filter compatible with your hood. The guidance depends on its reference and how it’s used. As examples for these specific products, Electrolux gives a lifespan of 4 to 6 months for OdourClean Standard and 2 to 3 years for OdourClean Plus, which is described as dishwasher-safe.
Will an integrated hood fit inside any wall unit?
No. The unit must suit the hood’s installation template and the requirements in its instructions. In particular, measure the available space rather than relying on the appliance’s advertised width alone.