Are Downdraft Vents Any Good?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The experts at Reviewed consider downdraft vent systems

inherently flawed

. … Because of their design, downdraft work harder than updraft systems to remove air, and are usually ineffective at drawing steam, odors and smoke from burners that are farthest away, and from tall stockpots.

Is a downdraft vent necessary?

The Basics. A downdraft cooktop is a normal gas, electric or induction cooktop with a built-in ventilation system. It uses proximity ventilation to attract fumes and grease during cooking. …

There's no need for overhead ventilation

or popup downdraft units that are installed behind the cooktop.

Which is better downdraft or updraft?


Downdraft

ventilation is integrated into your countertop or cooking appliance for a more streamlined appearance. … Easier to clean and more effective at whisking away odours and smoke than updraft units, downdrafts struggle when it comes to drawing steam from taller pots and pans.

Do downdraft ranges need to be vented outside?

Downdraft ranges have built-in vents between the burners, and suck smoke and steam through an exhaust pipe or filtration system. That means

they don't need an external vent hood

—a trait that makes them popular in open kitchens, and kitchens with cathedral ceilings.

How much does it cost to install a downdraft vent?

In general, plan on

about $200 to $500

depending on the complexity of your installation. This includes the labor cost of installing a new vent hood and does not include parts, adding or modifying ductwork, or electrical work.

What is the best downdraft range?

SL. No. PRODUCT DIMENSIONS 1

Jenn Air Downdraft Gas Cooktop

21.5 x 30 x 4 inches
2 GE Profile 30′′ Black Built-In Gas Downdraft Cooktop 21.94 x 29.81 x 2.25 inches 3 KitchenAid 30′′ 4-Burner Gas Downdraft Cooktop 21.5 x 30 x 4 inches 4 KitchenAid 36′′ 5-Burner Gas Downdraft Cooktop 21.5 x 36 x 4 inches

Can you replace a downdraft range with a regular range?

Replace your downdraft range with a

downdraft cooktop

OR non-vented cooktop + an independent downdraft vent – Independent pop-up downdraft vents take up space under your counter but may be able to use the existing ductwork for your downdraft range (consult with a contractor to make sure).

What brands make downdraft ranges?


Jenn-Air and Kitchen Aid

are the only brand that makes a downdraft range in electric, gas or dual fuel and only a few brands make a center downdraft cooktop. What is Downdraft Ventilation?

Can you use a downdraft vent with a range?

A downdraft ventilation system

can be incorporated into a cooktop

or it can be sold separately. Depending on the need of your kitchen, a range with a downdraft incorporated can work or if you already have a stove and just want to incorporate a downdraft system it can be bought separately.

Where does a downdraft range vent to?

A downdraft vent is a circulation system designed to pull small, airbourne food particles away from the cooking area, just like the traditional bulky range hood. The important and characteristic difference, however, is that downdraft vents are located

behind the cooktop

, rather than above it.

How do you install a downdraft vent?

In general, plan on

about $200 to $500

depending on the complexity of your installation. This includes the labor cost of installing a new vent hood and does not include parts, adding or modifying ductwork, or electrical work.

Is a vent required for a gas range?

Most gas ranges in the

United States do not require venting to the outside

. … We recommend venting any gas range to the outside of your home. A professional-grade range hood will evacuate harmful cooking fumes, reduce cooking odors, and improve your health and safety.

How much does it cost to install a microwave vent?

Vent type Install cost Replace non-vented (ductless) microwave

$100 – $150
Replace vented microwave & connect to existing ductwork $150 – $300 Replace range hood with a microwave & connect to existing ductwork $200 – $400

Can any range be downdraft?

If you prefer a full range but are unable to accommodate a range hood to pair with it, an

integrated downdraft

system is a great choice. Available in both electric and dual fuel options, you can purchase a downdraft range from KitchenAid that matches your favorite cooking style.

Do induction cooktops need to be vented?

When it comes to induction cooktops,

there is really no need for a lot of ventilation

. This is, however, not the same case when dealing with electric or gas cooktops. After all, you can expect that there is a lot of heat, maybe some smoke, and steam each time you cook.

Does Whirlpool make a downdraft range?

A downdraft ventilation system is an unobtrusive method of reducing steam, smoke and odors in your cooking area. Whirlpool

®

retractable

downdraft

vents offer a minimalist style, becoming a seamless part of your home to clear the air in the kitchen where your family loves to gather.

Rebecca Patel
Author
Rebecca Patel
Rebecca is a beauty and style expert with over 10 years of experience in the industry. She is a licensed esthetician and has worked with top brands in the beauty industry. Rebecca is passionate about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin, and she uses her expertise to create informative and helpful content that educates readers on the latest trends and techniques in the beauty world.