No longer glorified fans, kitchen range hoods and ventilation products are getting high-tech. With features like delayed-shutoff timers, clean-filter indicators, and sensors that automatically adjust blower operation to the heat output of a range or cooktop, the newest kitchen ventilation hoods offer a slew of features for optimal functionality.
Dacor. The Epicure Raised Ventilation System (ERV) was designed to vent commercial-style ranges and cooktops and disappears out of sight when not in use. Available in 30-, 36-, and 48-inch wide models, the system has an elevated 10-inch high intake and multiple remote blower options ranging from 600 to 1,600 CFM. An up-and-down switch and an infinite rotary switch control operation. (800) 793-0093. www.dacor.com.
Broan-NuTone. The Recessed Fan Light Combination unit has a trim design that matches other recessed lights to blend in seamlessly while providing ventilation. The unit is UL rated for use over tubs and showers with a GFCI circuit but can also be used to provide additional ventilation in kitchens or any other room. The light uses a 70-CFM blower and puts out only 2.0 sones. (800) 558-1711. www.broan.com.
Fantech. The Kitchen Ventilation System includes the Stainless Steel Range Hood Liner in either 36- or 48-inch widths; a remote-mount inline fan or exterior mounted fan ranging from 400 to 1,200 CFMs; and the optional LD Series Silencer that further reduces operating noise levels. The hood liners feature variable speed control, dimmable halogen lights, and removable aluminum filters. (800) 747-1762. www.fantech.net.
Abbaka. The Classic range canopy hood features a radiused profile achieved through a fusion weld that eliminates joints. Contour bands accent the curve of the hood but are attached invisibly. Wall-mounted and free-hanging island configurations are available. (800) 548-3932. www.abbaka.com.
Sirius Range Hoods. The Sirius Collection of range hoods features clean, angular profiles in both wall-mount and island configurations. Hoods come in all-stainless steel models and stainless steel and glass models, and they feature a variable-speed exhaust system with a 600 CFM blower. Halogen lights, dishwasher-safe filters, heat overload sensors, and delay-off timers are other features. (866) 528-4987. www.siriushoods.com.
Air King Ventilation Products. The Vision range hood features an ultra-slimline profile and is available in black, white, biscuit, and stainless steel finishes. An electronic blower delay timer automatically shuts the unit off and four speed settings provide up to 380 CFMs of blowing power. A Clean Filter indicator light reminds the user to clean the dishwasher-safe aluminum filters. The hood's interior has a nonstick coating for easy cleanup. (877) 304-3785. www.airkinglimited.com.
Kenyon Custom. Designed to be installed in an upper cabinet and to slide back out of the way when not in use, the Ductless Sirocco under-cabinet slider ventilation hood is intended for use where outside ducting is not available. A 350 CFM blower operates quietly at no more than 6.9 sones at the highest setting. The hood is available in 24-, 30-, and 36-inch widths and comes in brushed 304 stainless steel and black or white powder-coat finishes. (860) 664-4906. www.kenyonappliances.com.
Jenn-Air. Six speed settings, a 650-CFM blower, and 15-minute delay shut-off for both fan and lights are key features of the maker's stainless steel chimney hoods. Designed to coordinate with the manufacturer's newest stainless steel kitchen appliances, the hoods are also available in matching finishes. The Clean Filter indicator tells users when to clean the dishwasher-safe aluminum filters. (800) 536-6247. www.jennair.com.
Vent-A-Hood. Designed to accommodate standardized 6-inch ventilation outlets while delivering high-performance ventilation, the Emerald VI range hood uses a 250-CFM blower. Its SensaSource system automatically adjusts ventilation power to match heat and cooking output. The range hood features an active canopy and halogen lights and comes in 24-, 30-, 36-, and 42-inch widths. The hood is available in black, white, biscuit, and stainless steel finishes. (800) 331-2492. www.ventahood.com.
Zephyr. The Tempest II range hood features a 1,100 CFM blower that operates at a maximum of 7.0 sones. Available in 30-, 36-, and 48-inch widths, the hood's touch-free Intelli-Sensors system offers self-sensing operation, a room temperature sensor, auto speed selection, active delay-off, a manual override function, and a reset switch. Heat lamps and a backsplash are optional. The hood comes in a stainless steel finish. (888) 880-8368. www.zephyronline.com.
