Extractor hob: how to choose it?

Blog Guides Diagnostics Maintenance and cleaning News and Technologies In the kitchen

July 25, 2024 - Updated at July 26, 2024
Tiziano B.
Guides
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Extractor hobs are an innovative solution to optimize kitchen space by combining two appliances into one. This winning combination enhances energy efficiency, cooking performance, and offers a clean design that integrates perfectly into modern kitchens.

Choosing the right extractor hob requires considering various factors, such as: the type of power (induction or gas), the air cleaning methods (extractor hood or recirculating hood), the extraction capacity, and many other aspects that we will cover in this article.

Let's start by understanding how an integrated cooktop with a built-in hood works.

What is an integrated cooktop with hood and how does it work?

An extractor hob is a device that combines the cooktop with a built-in extraction or filtration system. Unlike traditional hoods placed above the stove, integrated hoods are positioned directly on the cooktop. Thanks to this advanced technology, fumes and vapors from cooking are extracted directly from the pots, preventing their dispersion into the air.

→ This type of cooktop is especially appreciated by those who need to save space, those with a kitchen island, and for the modern and minimalistic aesthetic it offers.

There are various types of extractor hobs with hoods available on the market, both gas and induction, in different models that can suit personal tastes and needs. Here are some examples:

Gas cooktop with extractor hob

Induction cooktop with extractor hob

Cooktop with retractable extractor hob

Source of images: Elica

What type of hood is needed for an induction cooktop and a gas cooktop?

For both types of cooktops (induction and gas), either an extractor hood or a recirculating hood can be installed. The choice between the two options is determined by the available space and whether there is a chimney in the kitchen to vent the fumes outside.

Integrated extractor hood: It extracts air and vents it outside through the installation of ducts connected to the chimney, ideal for high performance. The grease filters are placed under the kitchen cooktop.
Integrated recirculating hood: It filters the air and recirculates it back into the room after purification through activated carbon filters. Easy to install, it is useful for situations where venting fumes outside is not possible. The recirculation of purified air back into the room occurs through a grille at the base of the kitchen unit.

→ I would like to point out one thing: induction cooktops generate more condensation than gas cooktops. To address this issue, whether you have a recirculating or extractor hood, I recommend turning on the hood 5-10 minutes before you start cooking to avoid the thermal shock that causes condensation.

This is precisely why, in some situations, a special anti-condensation hood is installed.

At this link, you will also find information on the dimensions of the ducts for extractor hoods integrated into the cooktop.

What are the criteria for choosing a cooktop with an integrated hood?

When evaluating a cooktop with an integrated hood, it is essential to consider several parameters to make an informed choice. Here are the main aspects to consider:

Extraction Power: The airflow rate should be adequate for the size of the room and suitable for drawing fumes downward. It is preferable to choose integrated hoods with an extraction power above 650 m³/h to capture and direct fumes downward. The motor power is one of the most important aspects of the hood, as it ensures effective removal of cooking odors and fumes.
Noise Level: The noise of the extraction is directly proportional to the power. The more powerful the hood, the louder it will be. It is important to ensure that the noise level is not excessive, especially in open kitchens or those adjacent to other living areas.
Energy Efficiency: Choosing appliances with high energy efficiency helps reduce consumption and environmental impact. Note that the difference between a powerful hood and a less powerful one can impact the total energy consumption by up to 100 watts.
Chimney: The presence of a chimney in your kitchen is crucial for determining the type of installation (extractor or recirculating) and the cost of installation and maintenance. The chimney expels fumes outside, but if absent, you can opt for an integrated recirculating hood that purifies the air and recirculates it into the room.
Costs: The available budget is a key element in choosing a cooktop with an integrated hood and directly influences the choice of hood. Considering that an integrated cooktop with hood has higher initial and maintenance costs, evaluate the various options on the market based on the other parameters listed above.
Family Habits: The family's cooking habits impact the choice of the extraction system. If your family frequently cooks foods that generate a lot of smoke or strong odors, you will need a hood with high extraction capacity and adequate filtration systems, as well as more burners. On the other hand, if the cooktop is used less frequently and you prefer using the oven, the requirements may be different.
Elegant Design: Do you prefer a gas model or a more minimalistic one? Finding a model that perfectly matches the kitchen design is essential for ensuring the kitchen's elegance. There are hoods with a grille that draws fumes directly into the cooktop, or integrated “retractable” hoods that can be extended from the cooktop only when in use. Here is an example.
Maintenance: The maintenance of the filters in extraction systems can be slightly more complicated than traditional hoods. Additionally, keep in mind that recirculating hoods require more maintenance compared to extractor hoods. Regular maintenance is crucial to allow the filters and integrated hood to perform their tasks effectively. Read the dedicated article on hood cleaning.
Dimensions: Choosing the size of the cooktop that best fits the kitchen and family needs is crucial to ensure maximum comfort in its use.

Considering these parameters will help you select the cooktop with an integrated hood that best meets your needs, achieving high performance, energy efficiency, and a design suitable for your kitchen.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Cooktop with Integrated Hood

Cooktops with integrated hoods offer numerous advantages but also have some disadvantages.

Advantages

Elegant and Modern Design: They integrate perfectly into the worktop, eliminating the visual bulk of traditional hoods.
Space Optimization: Ideal for small kitchens, freeing up valuable space.
Efficiency in Fume Removal: They extract vapors directly from the pots.

Disadvantages

Cost: These hoods are more expensive in terms of purchase, installation, and maintenance.
Complex Maintenance: They require regular care, and accessing and replacing the filters is more complicated.
Noise: They might be noisier compared to traditional hoods.

For a deeper understanding of these points, read our dedicated article on the advantages and disadvantages of cooktops with integrated hoods.

How to Maintain Filters in an Extractor Hob?

In integrated hoods, the effectiveness of extraction and filtration crucially depends on the quality and condition of the filters. Indeed, saturated or improperly cleaned filters can significantly reduce the hood's performance.

The steps to maintain filters in an integrated hood are similar to those for traditional hoods. Here’s how to clean the different filters:

Grease Filters: These can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher, with a recommended cleaning frequency of about every two months (this can vary based on the usage of the hood).
Activated Carbon Filters: These cannot be washed but must be replaced with new filters approximately every six months. If you use LongLife filters, they can be washed and regenerated through a specific process.

Regular maintenance is very important to ensure the proper functioning of your integrated hood.

For the selection of filters and spare parts for your hood, conveniently access Filtro Cappa, where you will find everything you need to refurbish your appliance.

If you need help choosing the right spare parts or identifying malfunctions in your hood, contact me. The support service, personally managed by me, is at your disposal to assist you with anything you might need.

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