When planning or upgrading your kitchen in the UK, one appliance that often gets overlooked is the cooker hood, also known as an extractor fan or kitchen extractor. Though it may seem like a minor fixture, it plays a vital role in keeping your kitchen air fresh, clean, and free from grease. Choosing the right cooker hood involves understanding a few key features, measurements, and installation options. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know in a simple and practical way.
What Is a Cooker Hood?
A cooker hood is an appliance installed above your hob or cooker to extract steam, smoke, odours, and airborne grease during cooking. It usually includes a fan and filters, and it may either vent the air outside (ducted) or clean it and return it back into the room (recirculating).
Ducted vs Recirculating Cooker Hoods
1. Ducted Hoods
These are the most effective type as they remove air entirely from the room by pushing it outside through a duct. However, they require proper wall access and installation of ducting pipes, which may not be suitable for every home.
Pros:
- Better at removing steam, smoke, and odours
- Ideal for heavy or frequent cooking
Cons:
- More complicated installation
- May not be possible in flats or interior kitchens without external walls
2. Recirculating Hoods
These cooker hoods draw in the kitchen air, pass it through filters (often carbon filters), and then release the cleaned air back into the room.
Pros:
- Easier to install
- Suitable for rental properties or places without external ducting
Cons:
- Filters need regular replacement
- Less effective at removing humidity and strong smells
Types of Cooker Hoods in the UK
There are several styles of cooker hoods available. Choose one based on your kitchen layout and design preferences:
- Chimney Hoods – Classic vertical shape, mounted against the wall
- Canopy Hoods – Fitted underneath a kitchen cabinet
- Integrated Hoods – Hidden inside a cabinet for a seamless look
- Island Hoods – Designed to hang over hobs placed on kitchen islands
- Downdraft Extractors – Pop up from behind the hob and draw air downward
Each type suits different kitchen arrangements, so be sure to consider both function and appearance.
How to Measure for a Cooker Hood
To ensure your cooker hood performs efficiently, it should be at least as wide as your hob or cooker. Common sizes are 60cm, 70cm, and 90cm.
Important tip:
- For gas hobs: the hood should be placed at least 75cm above the surface.
- For electric hobs: the recommended distance is 65cm.
Also, check that you have enough clearance above the hob and enough wall or cabinet space to support the hood.
Noise Levels
All cooker hoods make some noise, but some are quieter than others. Look for models with a maximum noise level below 60 dB, especially if you have an open-plan kitchen.
Also, consider models with multiple speed settings so you can adjust the power (and noise) based on your cooking.
Energy Efficiency
Most modern cooker hoods sold in the UK come with an EU Energy Label. Look for an appliance with an A or B rating to reduce energy usage, especially if you'll use it frequently. These hoods are usually more efficient and quieter too.
Filters and Maintenance
If you go for a recirculating hood, you'll need to change or clean the filters regularly. Carbon filters typically last 3–6 months depending on usage. Grease filters (usually aluminium or stainless steel mesh) should be cleaned every month or two — many can go straight into the dishwasher.
For ducted hoods, only the grease filter needs regular cleaning.
Smart and Extra Features
Modern cooker hoods may come with features like:
- Touch controls
- LED lighting
- Auto sensors that adjust fan speed depending on steam levels
- WiFi control through apps or voice assistants
While these features add convenience, they may also increase the cost.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cooker hood for your UK kitchen depends on your cooking style, kitchen layout, and installation preferences. Whether you go for a ducted or recirculating model, chimney or integrated style, focus on function first — and make sure it fits your space both physically and visually.
Spending a little extra on a quiet, energy-efficient model with washable filters can save you time, reduce maintenance, and keep your kitchen comfortable for years to come.
