You may be assuming that a range hood is the perfect kitchen accessory to create the perfect cooking experience.
The truth is, you can find other alternatives to creating a cooking experience that you will love. Things like these alternatives are often overlooked compared to other products, but they’re definitely not unnecessary.
The range hood isn’t always necessary for all kitchens, and some people have no preference or use it at certain times of day, so keep these range hood alternatives in mind when shopping for your next appliance!
Do You Need a Range Hood Over Stove?
A range hood can be a great asset to have in all kitchens, especially for home chefs who work at their stovetops throughout the day.
Some people like to have their cooking areas open while they cook, and others prefer to have a range hood over their gas stove, to keep the air clean around them. You will find that the areas being occupied by the pots, pans, and other items can potentially leave all of your cooking smells behind.
A range hood provides an even and clean airflow throughout the cooking area. Another great feature of a range hood is that it prevents the bacon grease from splattering on the stovetop, resulting in burns to electric glass cooktop, gas stove or worst, your hands.
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Range Hood
Before you buy a range hood, there are certain factors that you should consider:
Exhaust System
The most important thing to consider when buying a range hood is the exhaust system. Purchasing a range hood with an under-mounted vent will give you a cleaner cooking area compared to an over-mounted vent.
There are some disadvantages to under-mounted vents, and exhaust fans, so you must check out the various options, such as the exhaust fan and whether it will work with your current range hood. The venting that you choose going to depend on your cooking style.
Kitchen Layout
It’s important to consider your kitchen layout when purchasing a range hood. It would be best to know whether it will be located in the kitchen or the laundry room. You also want to consider ventilation and whether or not you have any kitchen cabinets or space for venting.
Budget
You need to consider your budget. You don’t want to go over your set budget because it will prevent you from creating a more suitable kitchen environment.
Maintenance
You need to consider the maintenance of your range hood. If you have the option of cleaning it, you may want to choose an under-mounted vent.
Design
Style is important, but it doesn’t mean that you need to spend thousands of dollars on a range hood. Just ensure that the design is functional for your home, and you’ll be ready to go.
Noise
If the range hood is going to be located in an area where you’ll hear it, then you need to think about the noise that it emits.
Range Hood Alternatives to Install
What to do if you don’t have a range hood? If you don’t have or don’t want to install a range hood in your kitchen yet, no worries! You can add one of these range hood alternatives today.
But, if you can’t afford the appliance or have other priorities at the moment, you still have plenty of budget-friendly options.
Portable Kitchen Exhaust Fan
There is no need for a range hood if you have your kitchen doors open. Air circulation is the best way to keep everything clean.
You can always circulate the air in your kitchen to eliminate unwanted cooking scents. All you need to do is switch on your fans and open the windows every once in a while.
The bad odor from cooking will soon be gone. You can use it to remove kitchen odors from your home, especially when you have a big gathering.
Air Purifier with Activated Carbon Filter
Air purifiers with activated carbon filters are a modern alternative to a range hood. They can be adjusted to different settings depending on the level of air you need to circulate.
An air purifier with an activated carbon filter can eliminate cooking smells and other bad odors. They’re especially effective in eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.
Alternative Kitchen Gadgets For Cooking Without Range Hood
When it comes to keeping your kitchen well-ventilated and free from cooking odors, a range hood has long been the go-to solution. However, if you’re looking for alternatives or simply don’t have the option to install a traditional range hood, other kitchen gadgets can help.
1. Downdraft Cooktop System:
A downdraft ventilation system is a viable alternative to a conventional range hood. Unlike hoods that hang above the cooktop, a downdraft system is installed behind or beside it.
It utilizes a fan to pull smoke, odors, and airborne particles downwards, through ductwork, and out of the kitchen. While downdraft systems are not as effective as range hoods, they can be suitable for kitchens with specific layouts or limitations.
2. Induction Cooktop:
An induction cooktop offers a great alternative to traditional gas or electric stoves. It employs electromagnetic energy to heat the cookware directly, rather than heating the entire cooktop surface.
This method produces less smoke and fewer cooking odors, reducing the reliance on a range hood. Induction cooktops also provide precise temperature control and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice among home cooks.
3. Utilize Your Oven more:
When it comes to cooking methods that produce minimal smoke and odors, your oven can be a valuable ally. Roasting, baking, and slow-cooking dishes in the oven can help reduce the need for a range hood.
Moreover, using covered dishes or foil packets can help contain aromas within the oven and minimize their spread throughout the kitchen.
4. Embrace the Air Fryer:
Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to prepare crispy and flavorful food with minimal oil. Since air fryers operate in a closed environment, they release fewer odors compared to traditional frying methods. Incorporating air fryer recipes into your cooking routine can significantly reduce the need for a range hood.
5. Smart Pressure Cooker:
Smart pressure cookers, such as Instant Pots, have become a staple in many kitchens for their convenience and versatility. These devices use sealed cooking techniques, minimizing the release of steam, smoke, and odors during the cooking process. By leveraging the capabilities of a smart pressure cooker, you can create delicious meals with minimal impact on your kitchen’s air quality.
Final Thoughts
It is possible to switch up your kitchen without making major changes. You don’t always have to install a range hood, especially if you prefer to cook with the doors open, and whenever you’re done using the stovetop, close up everything.
There are plenty of affordable options to consider, such as charcoal briquettes. If you’d rather keep it simple, open up your windows every once in a while and switch on the fans.
