In this article, we will discuss the importance of understanding the information presented on the energy label of a kitchen hood. For anyone facing the challenging decision of choosing a kitchen hood, it's crucial not to overlook the energy label of the appliance.

Understanding the features of the appliance is essential to ensure that you purchase the right one that best meets your needs.

Keep reading to learn what the energy label is and how to best interpret the data and information it provides. This way, you can make a more informed decision when choosing your kitchen hood.

What is the Energy Label, and What Information Does It Contain?

The energy class label (also known as the Energy Label) is an informative classification method for household appliances. It outlines the main features of an appliance (in this case, the kitchen hood) to allow consumers to properly evaluate the model they intend to purchase. The energy label is currently mandated by law in all European Union countries.

The energy label has been mandatory since 2015 for domestic kitchen hoods. This label is displayed on the front of the appliance to list its features and clearly indicate the main information about the device, providing crucial support when purchasing a kitchen hood.

The information provided on the Energy Label includes:

  • The name of the manufacturer
  • The identification code of the appliance
  • The energy class, expressed in letters from A+++ (the best) to D
  • The annual energy consumption of the hood, expressed in kWh/year
  • The fluid dynamics class
  • The lighting efficiency class
  • The filter efficiency class
  • The noise level in Decibels

Example of Energy Label of a Hood

Image Src: Faber

A Closer Look at Energy Classes

The term "energy class" refers to a classification system that allows you to measure the energy consumption of household appliances.

The current energy classes are divided into seven levels, represented by letters ranging from A to G, where A is the most efficient energy class, and G is the least efficient. The annual energy consumption of a kitchen hood for domestic use typically ranges between 30 kWh/year (class A+) and 190 kWh/year (class F).

Energetic classes from green to red

The labels use arrow colors to indicate efficiency levels, where green represents maximum efficiency, and red indicates less optimized performance (see image).

The classes that provide the greatest energy savings are A+++, A++, and A+, but not all appliances can achieve A+++ due to technical limitations. For example, electric ovens can be classified in the A+++ energy class.

Within the A+++ class, there is an additional classification that denotes further energy savings of an appliance compared to others within the same class (e.g., A+++ -20%).

 Appliances in the A+++ energy class can consume 60% less energy than other models in class A.

What Are the Advantages of Installing an A+ Energy Class Hood?

As mentioned earlier, the benefits of choosing an appliance with an A+ energy class, or higher, are mainly related to energy savings, but there are additional advantages as well. Below, we will explore the further benefits that characterize these hoods:

  • Economic Savings: Reduced energy consumption translates into lower electricity bills, allowing you to recoup your initial investment over time.
  • High Fan and Motor Efficiency: A+ class hoods are designed with advanced technologies that enable better appliance efficiency.
  • Better Environmental Impact: An efficient hood reduces environmental impact by helping to lower CO2 emissions and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.

From the points listed above, we can see that installing an A+ energy class hood offers numerous advantages, both economically and environmentally.

While choosing an A+ energy class hood represents, according to current categorization, the best solution in terms of sustainability and energy savings, it is not without disadvantages, such as potentially higher initial costs.

Symbols on the Energy Label

Here’s how to read the energy class label and its symbols, which will allow you to better understand the functionality of your hood:

Energy Efficiency Class Symbol

1) The energy efficiency class is important for the classification of the hood. The better the efficiency, the lower the annual energy consumption will be.

Annual Energy Consumption Symbol

2) The annual energy consumption gives you an idea of how your hood might impact both economically and environmentally.

Fluid Dynamic Efficiency Symbol

3) Fluid dynamic efficiency refers to the extraction capacity of the hood itself. This essential data is expressed in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). The general rule is that the hood should be able to extract an amount of air 10 times greater than the total volume of the room.

Lighting Efficiency Symbol

4) Lighting efficiency is determined by the ratio between the average illumination of the cooking surface (expressed in lux) and the nominal power consumed in watts. This is also important for the lighting of the cooking surface while cooking.

Grease Filtration Efficiency Symbol

5) Grease filtration efficiency indicates the class of filtration efficiency based on the percentage of grease retained in the hood's grease filters. The higher the efficiency, the better the air filtration.

Noise Level Emitted by the Hood Symbol

6) The noise level, indicated in dB, is measured as the sound power of the hood when operated at its maximum normal usage power. Keep in mind that the noise level should never exceed 55 decibels (with the hood at maximum power).

These parameters will help you complete the evaluation of the product.

Filtro Cappa Provides Assistance for the Well-Being of Your Hood

Once you have decided which hood to purchase, after carefully reading the energy label, remember that the hood requires maintenance.

The well-being of the hood is crucial to ensuring its proper functioning. Here’s how to clean the two different types of filters:

  • Grease Filters: You can wash them by hand or in the dishwasher, and the recommended frequency is every two months (this may vary depending on the hood's usage).
  • Activated Carbon Filters: These cannot be washed but should be replaced with new filters approximately every six months. If you use LongLife filters, they can also be washed (regenerated) using a specific procedure.

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

Filtro Cappa will help you resolve any issues with your hood, provide advice if needed, and above all, be your primary partner in sourcing spare parts for your hood.