Who is this option for?

Home cooks without an external vent

You want to reduce cooking smells without creating an external vent. Check that the hood works in recirculation mode and that its filters can be cleaned or replaced.

Households with limited space

Your wall unit, wall, ceiling or base unit may limit the formats you can choose from. The installation dimensions, distance from the hob and power supply must all meet the requirements in the instructions for your chosen model.

Households mindful of noise and maintenance

In an open-plan kitchen or one you use frequently, compare the noise levels at the speeds you’ll use and check how often the compatible filter needs maintaining.

What should you check before buying?

Start by checking that recirculation is supported, then make sure the format suits your kitchen. An integrated hood fits inside a wall unit; a decorative hood is on show, an island hood needs to be fixed to the ceiling, and a venting hob takes up space in the base unit.

What to consider What to check before buying Who is it for?
Odour filtration Confirm recirculation mode and the model number of the compatible charcoal filter or kit; check what’s included. Without an external vent, I want to remove odours before the air is returned to the kitchen. Around 33% of consumers would make this compatibility their priority.
Dimensions and installation Compare the installation dimensions, distance from the hob and space needed to remove the filters with the model’s instructions. If my wall unit or the space above the hob is limited, I need to be able to install and maintain the appliance. Around 27% of consumers would prioritise how well it fits.
Noise while cooking Check the noise levels at each speed, ideally for recirculation mode. In an open-plan kitchen, I’d rather know how noisy it is at the speed I’ll use regularly. Around 20% of consumers would put quiet operation first.
Filter maintenance Identify the compatible filter, check its availability and follow the cleaning or replacement instructions for its specific model number. If I cook often, I want to be able to keep up with maintenance easily. Around 20% of consumers would put this practical consideration first.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Buying a recirculation-compatible hood without identifying its filter

    According to UFC-Que Choisir, a charcoal filter is needed for recirculation mode. Bosch notes that some of its models also require an initial installation kit, and there’s no universal kit.

    Make a note of the hood’s full model number, then check the model numbers of the filter and any kit required, and whether they’re included with the appliance.

  • Comparing only the figures quoted for extraction mode

    UFC-Que Choisir measures cooker hood airflow separately in extraction and recirculation modes, using a charcoal filter for the latter. So a figure given only for extraction doesn’t tell you how the hood will perform in the mode you’re considering.

    When comparing models, look for airflow and noise figures for recirculation mode and under comparable operating conditions.

  • Relying on the advertised width without checking the installation requirements

    The advertised width doesn’t tell you the cut-out dimensions, the clearance above the hob or how much space you’ll need to access the filters.

    Measure the space and check the electrical connection, then compare your measurements with the technical drawing and instructions for the exact model.

  • Treating filters as a one-off purchase

    According to Elica, maintaining the charcoal filter is essential for it to work against odours. The process depends on the filter: replacement, cleaning and regeneration aren’t interchangeable.

    Before you choose, check the instructions for the compatible filter and make sure you’re happy with how often it needs attention.

    Depending on the technology, you’ll need to budget for regular replacements or set aside time to clean the filters.

Brands to consider for your project

Bosch

Worth considering if you’re looking at a cooker hood that needs a recirculation kit matched to a specific model.

  • Bosch lists initial installation kits for some models.
  • The brand confirms there’s no universal kit, so check compatibility with the exact hood model.

Electrolux

Worth considering when comparing integrated hoods and venting hobs, including their installation requirements.

  • Electrolux product pages for the LFG615X and CFG516R integrated hoods specify what’s included for recirculation.
  • A charcoal filter is included with the LFG615X but optional for the CFG516R, so check the product page for the model you choose.

Franke

Worth considering if an exposed or suspended hood is a better fit for the position of your hob.

  • Franke describes the Smart FSMS F42 island hood as a model that works only in recirculation mode.
  • For a suspended hood, confirm that the ceiling fixing and power supply suit the model you’ve chosen.

Elica

Worth considering if the type of odour filter and its maintenance are important to your decision.

  • Elica publishes instructions for its filters. For the CFC0140055, the brand recommends replacing it after 3 to 4 months.
  • This replacement interval applies to this filter model and doesn’t automatically apply to other Elica technologies.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a charcoal filter to use a cooker hood in recirculation mode?

Yes. The charcoal filter removes odours before the air is returned to the kitchen. A grease filter is also needed, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Check which filter is compatible with your hood and whether you also need a recirculation kit.

When should you replace the charcoal filter?

It depends on the filter model and the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, Elica recommends replacing its CFC0140055 filter after 3 to 4 months. Follow the instructions for the filter you’ve actually installed rather than applying this interval to a different model.

How much space should you leave between the hob and the cooker hood?

Follow the minimum distance specified in the hood’s instructions for your type of hob. For its LFG615X integrated hood, Electrolux specifies at least 50 cm above an electric hob and 65 cm above a gas hob. These measurements don’t necessarily apply to another model.