Ventilation plays a critical role in designing a functional and comfortable kitchen. One common question homeowners ask is whether a rangehood helps with heat. The answer is both straightforward and nuanced: while range hoods are primarily designed to remove airborne grease, odours, and smoke, they can indirectly help reduce heat in your kitchen.
How Rangehoods Work
Range hoods are equipped with a fan or blower that extracts air from the cooking area. This air is then either filtered and recirculated (in ductless models) or vented outside (in ducted models). Although the primary goal of a commercial rangehood is not temperature control, its ability to expel hot air, steam, and fumes can contribute to a cooler and more comfortable kitchen environment.
Can Rangehoods Reduce Heat in the Kitchen?
- Removal of Steam and Hot Air:
Cooking activities like boiling, frying, or baking release steam and hot air into the room. A range hood helps remove this air, preventing it from accumulating and raising the temperature.
- Minimised Discomfort:
With proper ventilation, heat and humidity can make cooking manageable. Range hoods, by extracting steam and odours, enhance kitchen comfort during extended cooking sessions.
- Better Air Circulation:
A well-functioning rangehood promotes airflow, reducing the buildup of stagnant, warm air. This can indirectly lower the temperature, particularly in closed kitchen spaces.
The Role of Ducted vs. Ductless Rangehoods
- Ducted Rangehoods:
These are more effective in removing heat as they vent air directly outside, reducing kitchen temperature significantly.
- Ductless Rangehoods:
While they filter the air to eliminate grease and odours, they do not expel heat outside. Thus, their impact on kitchen heat is minimal compared to ducted systems.
Additional Tips to Reduce Heat in the Kitchen
If managing kitchen heat is a concern, consider these strategies:
- Use energy-efficient cooking appliances.
- Cook during more extraordinary times of the day.
- Install ceiling fans for added airflow.
- Choose light-coloured finishes for better heat reflection.
Conclusion
While a rangehood’s primary purpose is ventilation, it can help manage heat by removing steam and improving air circulation. For kitchens prone to overheating, opting for a ducted rangehood is the best choice. By combining a rangehood with other heat-reducing strategies, you can create a cooler, more enjoyable cooking environment.
