Anyone planning an open-plan kitchen
You want to keep the space above the hob clear, especially on a kitchen island, while still making provision for extraction.
A venting hob is a good choice if you want to keep the space above the hob clear and its cut-out, base unit and airflow route are compatible with your chosen model. A separate hob and extractor hood are still an option if their positions work for you and you’d rather choose each appliance independently. In either case, check whether the model uses extraction or recirculation, and find out what filter maintenance involves.
You want to keep the space above the hob clear, especially on a kitchen island, while still making provision for extraction.
Before switching to a venting hob, compare the cut-out, the space beneath the worktop and the existing cabinet with the requirements of the model you’re considering.
If your project has no usable external outlet, the filters, any required accessories and their maintenance will all factor into your choice of appliance.
In an open-plan kitchen, start by deciding where you’re happy to have the extraction system, then compare each option with the space available and the route the air will take.
| Your priority | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping the view clear | Choose between extraction built into the hob and a separate hood fitted into the worktop; check how much space you’ll need beneath it. | If I don’t want a hood above the hob, where the extraction system goes is my top priority. Around 36% of consumers prioritise an unobstructed view. |
| Making it work with your existing installation | Compare the cut-out, worktop depth and space inside the cabinet with the installation diagram for the exact model. | When replacing a hob, I want to know if my worktop and cabinet can accommodate the new appliance without major changes. This compatibility is the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Choosing the airflow route | Check whether external extraction is possible or, for recirculation, which filters and kits the model requires. | Without a usable external duct, I need to be able to factor filtration and its upkeep into my daily routine. Around 28% of consumers put ventilation at the top of their list. |
| Keeping the appliances separate | Consider where a wall-mounted, island or downdraft hood could go, and check its installation requirements. | I’d rather choose the hob and hood separately, even if that means finding space for both. This flexibility is the main priority for around 7% of consumers. |
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a venting hob removes the need for a conventional hood above the cooking zones, but you’ll need to pay particular attention to the cabinet and cut-out when planning the installation. A wall-mounted or island hood keeps the appliances separate and remains visible above the hob. A downdraft hood avoids taking up space above the hob, but it also needs room inside the cabinet.
UFC-Que Choisir points out that the cut-out and cabinet may need adapting. The appliance’s visible width alone won’t tell you whether it will fit.
Measure the worktop, cut-out and space beneath the hob, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model.
Your project may require changes to the worktop, cabinet or airflow route.
Odour filters need to be maintained according to the specific model. An installation kit may also be sold separately.
Check the filter part numbers, the maintenance interval in the instruction manual and which accessories are included.
Choosing an extractor hood won’t, by itself, address the home’s existing ventilation. External extraction also needs to be considered alongside the airflow route and any other appliances in the property.
Ask a suitably qualified professional to assess the plans, particularly if your home has a combustion appliance or a shared ventilation system.
Bosch offers venting hobs and accessories for recirculation, extraction and filtration.
The brand offers 600 Bridge venting hobs, among other models. Check the installation options for the specific model you’re considering.
Siemens offers induction hobs with integrated extraction, with some models supporting recirculation or extraction.
The 2gether range combines induction cooking and extraction, with accessories to suit different installation options.
BORA offers hobs with integrated extraction and dedicated filters.
This selection features a hob that combines induction cooking and extraction for an open-plan kitchen. Before choosing it, check that its installation will work with your plans and cabinets.
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This hob combines induction cooking and extraction, making it a good option if you want to avoid having a hood above the cooking zones. It has four Boost Flex cooking zones. Check that its installation dimensions and air-treatment mode suit your plans. The Joybuy product page states that the CBEHKIT installation kit is sold separately.
Not automatically. The worktop, base unit and airflow route must all be suitable for the specific model. If you’re replacing an existing hob, check the cut-out and space beneath the worktop before choosing this option.
First, check whether a route to the outside is possible and compatible with the instruction manual and your home. If you choose recirculation, check which odour filters and kits you’ll need for your chosen model.
Don’t plan to connect it until you’ve identified the ventilation system, the possible route and the appliance’s instructions. Ask a suitably qualified professional to approve the setup, particularly if you have a shared ventilation system.
Follow the replacement interval and maintenance guidance for the model and filter you’re using. BORA explains that the frequency depends on the system and filter, so a schedule given for another hood won’t necessarily apply to your appliance.