A kitchen without ducting
You’re keeping your hob and looking for a wall-mounted hood or an integrated unit that fits inside a cupboard, without adding an external vent. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between extraction and recirculation options.
Who are these options suitable for ?
A kitchen you’re redesigning
You’re replacing the hob too, so you can check the worktop cut-out, the cupboard below and the power supply needed for an extractor hob.
Regular cooking, with maintenance to plan for
You want to know which filter you need, when to replace it and what noise levels are quoted in recirculation mode. Electrolux and BORA provide replacement guidance for certain filters.
What should you check before buying ?
Start by checking which type of installation your kitchen can accommodate, then look at recirculation, the filters and the specifications quoted for this mode.
Wall-mounted cooker hood
Consider this if : you’re keeping your hob and have a wall where you can install the appliance.
Check : the fixings, clearances and recirculation kit required for the exact model reference.
Integrated hood unit
Consider this if : you have a wall cupboard that can house the appliance and its dimensions are suitable.
Check : the cut-out, clearances above the hob and whether a filter is included or required for recirculation.
Extractor hob
Consider this if : you’re replacing the hob too and can adapt the worktop.
Check : the cut-out, the space available beneath the worktop and the power supply specified for the model.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who is this important for ? |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning and installation | Dimensions, cut-out, clearances above the hob and electrical setup specified for the exact model. | If I’m keeping my hob and not installing ducting, I want to know whether my wall, cupboard or worktop can accommodate the appliance. Around 31 % of consumers put installation compatibility first. |
| Odour and grease filtration | Whether an odour filter is included and compatible for recirculation, as well as how to maintain the grease filter. | I want to reduce odours and capture grease while cooking without an external vent. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise odour and grease filtration. |
| Filters and maintenance | The compatible reference, whether a filter is included and how often it needs replacing for the intended use. | I’d rather know the exact reference and maintenance schedule before choosing an appliance. Around 23 % of consumers prioritise knowing in advance how often filters need maintaining. |
| Noise in recirculation mode | The noise level quoted for recirculation mode and, if possible, at a comparable speed setting. | If I cook often, I want to compare noise levels in the mode I’ll actually use, rather than a figure quoted for extraction mode. Around 15 % of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Comparing extraction-mode figures only
The product specifications for the Bosch DWB97CM50 and Electrolux LFG517X show different figures for each mode. If you’re using a cooker hood in recirculation mode, an extraction-mode figure alone isn’t enough to compare appliances.
Compare the same mode at similar speeds, and look for independent tests in recirculation mode where available.
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Assuming all the parts for recirculation are included
A charcoal filter or recirculation kit may be needed, depending on the model reference. Electrolux says a standard filter is included with the LFG517X in its recirculation setup, but this doesn’t tell you what’s included with other models.
Before installation, check what’s in the box and which references are compatible with the exact variant.
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Choosing an extractor hob without checking the installation requirements
An extractor hob requires you to check the worktop cut-out, the space beneath it and the specified electrical setup.
Take your measurements and check the model’s instructions before choosing this option.
Brands and ranges to know
Electrolux
The LFG517X integrated hood unit is an example of a 70 cm appliance designed to fit inside a cupboard and available in a recirculation setup.
- Electrolux says the standard ECFB02ST filter is included for this setup.
- The brand recommends replacing this filter every 4 to 6 months, depending on use. Check its availability and compatibility with the model you choose.
Bosch
Bosch presents the DWB97CM50 wall-mounted cooker hood for both extraction and recirculation.
- Bosch’s specifications give this model a maximum airflow rate of 343 m³/h and a maximum noise level of 66 dB in recirculation mode.
- Check which kit and filter are suitable for the exact variant. The accessories list alone doesn’t confirm compatibility with every reference.
BORA
BORA specifically offers the Pure PURU2R extractor hob in a recirculation setup, making it worth considering if you’re replacing your hob.
- BORA lists dimensions of 760 × 199 × 515 mm and a single-phase power supply of 220–240 V for the PURU2R.
- BORA says the PUAKF filter should be replaced after 150 hours of operation or one year. Check which reference is compatible with the exact variant.
Elica
The NikolaTesla Fit range is worth exploring if you’re redesigning your kitchen and considering an extractor hob.
- Elica publishes specifications for the different variants and operating modes in the range.
- Find the exact product code and confirm filter compatibility before ordering. Don’t assume one reference will fit every variant.
Wall-mounted and angled recirculating cooker hoods
This selection features wall-mounted and angled cooker hoods designed for recirculation. Before choosing, check the mode specified for the exact model reference, the filter required and the installation dimensions.
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Comfee' CH90J64ET4A2B2-EU
Worth considering if you’re looking for a cooker hood listed for recirculation and have enough wall space.
The product name indicates a width of 90 cm, four speeds and a five-layer aluminium filter.
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Heinrich's HDU 7631 IX
This wall-mounted cooker hood is worth comparing for an installation without an external vent. Check what you need for recirculation.
The product name indicates a width of 60 cm and an included charcoal filter. It lists both extraction and recirculation modes.
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Heinrich's HDU 7622 SW
Worth comparing if an angled wall-mounted cooker hood suits your available space and you’re planning a recirculation setup.
The product name indicates a width of 60 cm, an included charcoal filter, and both extraction and recirculation modes.
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IsEasy 60 cm recirculating cooker hood
Worth exploring if you’re looking for a 60 cm cooker hood listed for recirculation. Check which filter is compatible with the model reference before installation.
The product name indicates four speeds and an adjustable delayed shut-off of 1 to 9 minutes.
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Ciarra CBCB6201-B, 60 cm wall-mounted cooker hood
Worth exploring for a wall-mounted installation in a recirculation setup. Check the intended mode and which filter is suitable for this reference.
The product name indicates a width of 60 cm and a stated extraction rate of 370 m³/h.
Frequently asked questions
Does a recirculating cooker hood replace your home’s ventilation ?
No. A recirculating cooker hood filters the air and returns it to the room instead of venting it outside. The decree of 24 March 1982, published on Légifrance, states that homes may need general, permanent ventilation, at least when outdoor temperatures mean windows must be kept closed. Don’t block existing ventilation systems.
How high should you install a cooker hood ?
Follow the instructions for your exact model and take the type of hob into account. For example, Electrolux specifies a clearance of 50 cm above an electric hob and 65 cm above a gas hob for the LFG517X. Bosch specifies 550 mm and 650 mm respectively for the DWB97CM50. These recommendations apply to these specific models.
How can you plan ahead for filter maintenance ?
Check which reference is compatible with your model and how often the manufacturer recommends replacing it. Electrolux recommends replacing the ECFB02ST every 4 to 6 months, depending on use. BORA says the PUAKF should be replaced after 150 hours of operation or one year. These instructions apply to the filters and models listed, not all cooker hoods.
Can you connect the cooker hood to a mechanical ventilation system or chimney ?
No. This guide covers a recirculation setup, with no connection to these ducts. UFC-Que Choisir advises against connecting the hood and highlights the associated risk of damage. Choose a recirculation setup that’s suitable for your appliance’s model reference.