If you do not have a usable external duct, choose a cooker hood specifically designed for recirculation, then select a format to suit your kitchen: an integrated hood, an under-cabinet model or a wall-mounted decorative hood. First, check the installation dimensions, the compatible kit and charcoal filter, as well as the noise and airflow figures published specifically for recirculation mode.
Recirculation mode is suitable when air cannot be expelled outside: it passes through a grease filter and then a charcoal filter before being returned to the kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes this system from external extraction.
An integrated hood may be suitable if the wall unit accommodates the dimensions, template and safety clearances specified by the manufacturer.
Check the charcoal filter reference, how it is replaced or regenerated, and the maintenance instructions before prioritising the hood’s design alone.
Consider this if: you have a compatible wall unit and want a hood that is discreet.
Check: the unit’s dimensions, the installation diagram and the noise figures published for recirculation mode.
Consider this if: your hob is underneath a wall unit and a compact 60 cm format is suitable.
Check: the initial installation kit and the filter that matches the hood’s exact reference.
Consider this if: you have enough wall space and clearance above the cooking area for a visible installation.
Check: that the model can be converted to recirculation mode and that the compatible kit is available.
| Priority | What to check | Your requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Recirculation compatibility | The explicit wording “recirculation” or “recirculation/extraction”; the required kit; the charcoal filter reference; the dimensions and installation diagram. | I want a hood that can genuinely operate without an external outlet, without discovering after purchase that an essential accessory is missing. |
| Odours and grease | The washable metal filter; the charcoal filter specified for the model; cleaning and replacement instructions. | I want to reduce cooking odours and greasy deposits, while remembering that recirculation sends filtered air back into the room. |
| Noise and airflow | The airflow and sound-level figures published for recirculation mode; the associated operating speed; whether an intensive mode is available. | I would rather compare measurements taken in the same mode than choose a hood based solely on its maximum airflow. |
| Filter maintenance | The type of charcoal filter; its compatible reference; whether it is replaced or regenerated; whether there is a saturation indicator. | I want to plan maintenance tasks in advance and easily find the right filter for my hood. |
A hood described as convertible may require a specific kit and filter to operate in recirculation mode. Without the components intended for that reference, the installation may not be suitable.
Note the hood’s exact reference, then check the manufacturer’s manual or configurator for the required kit, filter and accessories.
The recirculation kit may be sold separately, depending on the model.
The figures may relate to different operating modes. Bosch, for example, publishes an airflow rate of 350 m³/h for the DUL63CC50 in extraction mode, while Electrolux publishes separate recirculation figures for the LFG615W.
Only compare airflow rates and sound levels when they relate to the same mode and, where possible, the same speed.
An integrated hood requires a compatible wall unit, and installation clearances depend on both the model and the type of hob.
Measure the unit, hob and available height, then check the template and manual before ordering.
An incompatibility may require additional accessories or modifications to the unit.
Standard and long-life filters involve different routines: standard filters are replaced, while some regenerable filters require washing and drying according to the instructions.
Choose between a disposable and regenerable filter based on the maintenance you are prepared to carry out, and check that the compatible reference is available.
Regular maintenance may include washing, drying or replacing the filter.
Worth considering for under-cabinet, integrated or decorative hoods that can be converted to recirculation, as well as for the associated recirculation kits.
An option for an integrated hood when your kitchen has a suitable wall unit and you are looking for information specifically relating to recirculation.
Worth considering if you are looking for a regenerable charcoal filter for a specific hood rather than a standard disposable filter.
Joybuy option for a wall-mounted decorative hood advertised with recirculation mode, suitable for a kitchen without a usable external outlet, subject to checking the accessories and installation requirements.
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Worth considering for a wall-mounted installation with sufficient ceiling height, as the model advertises recirculation as well as extraction.
Listed dimensions: 600 × 500 mm, adjustable chimney from 485 to 820 mm, LED lighting and a five-layer aluminium filter that is dishwasher-safe.
Check the charcoal filter reference and whether a recirculation kit is required before buying. The stated figures of 650 m³/h and 59 dB are not explicitly attributed to recirculation mode; also consult the manual for safety clearances and installation requirements.
Yes, provided the model is explicitly designed for recirculation and is fitted with the charcoal filter and kit required by its manufacturer. According to UFC-Que Choisir, the air is then returned to the room after passing through a charcoal filter designed to remove cooking odours.
No, it depends on the reference. Bosch states that some hoods require a dedicated initial installation kit, while Electrolux states that a standard filter and ductless kit are included with the LFG615W. Check the product listing and manual for the exact model.
Follow the instructions for the filter and hood, as the interval varies according to the reference and usage. Electrolux states 4 to 6 months for its standard ECFB01ST filter and 2 to 3 years for the long-life MCFE29 filter, with regeneration every 3 to 4 months; Elica recommends two years for its CFC0166361, compatible with certain Rules hoods.
Yes. The grease filter traps extracted grease and must be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For the LFG615W, Electrolux specifies a washable aluminium mesh filter and saturation indicators for both the grease and charcoal filters.
Always use the clearances specified for your model and type of hob. Electrolux publishes a minimum of 50 cm above an electric hob and 65 cm above a gas hob for the LFG615W; these figures should not be applied to another hood without consulting its manual.