When installing a rangehood into a new kitchen, proper planning and installation are crucial. Overlooking key aspects can lead to costly mistakes. Here are the top five pitfalls to avoid when managing your rangehood installation.
1. Incorrect Ventilation Planning (Don’t Forget the Ducting)
Unless installing a recirculating rangehood, proper kitchen ventilation is essential. Failing to plan an effective ventilation path, including duct size and routing, can drastically reduce the rangehood’s efficiency. Shortcuts like too many bends or using under-sized ducts can lead to costly fixes.
Additionally, delaying the installation of rangehood motors and ventilation components until late in the project can result in costly setbacks. While this may seem obvious, there are only a few steps between the ducting installation and interior cladding—mistakes happen, and we’ve seen it before.
Here is an example of a project that due to a simple mix up with trade bookings, had installed the ceiling before the ducting had been installed, leading to a very expensive rangehood installation and of course… further delays to the remainder of the project.
2. Incorrect Installation Planning with Cabinetry
Whether you want your rangehood to be a centerpiece or remain hidden, planning its integration with cabinetry is critical. Rangehoods must fit seamlessly into the overall kitchen design and of course space, whether that means being installed within custom cabinetry or mounted for display. Failing to plan this properly can result in less than ideal results or simply a rangehood that just does not fit.
If you’re unsure about the specification of your rangehood or need advice on rangehood installation, contact Sydney Rangehoods for expert guidance.
3. Selecting the Wrong Type/Size Rangehood for the Kitchen
Not all rangehoods are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can be costly. The type of cooking, size of the kitchen space, and type of cooktop all determine the appropriate rangehood installation. For instance, if you’re using a gas cooktop, or cooking high fatty meats, you’ll need a rangehood with higher extraction power.
Factors such as the rangehood’s size, the strength of its motor (measured in cubic meters per hour of air), and the filter type also matter. This is a detailed topic in itself, For more information on selecting the right size and type of rangehood for your kitchen, check out the following guides:
4. Incorrect Distance from the Cooktop / Lack of Coverage
Installing the rangehood at an incorrect height from the cooktop, or selecting one that doesn’t adequately cover the cooking surface, reduces its effectiveness. It’s an easy mistake to make, but one that can have a large impact.
A rangehood installed too far from the cooktop may struggle to capture smoke and grease, while one that’s too close can cause performance issues. A general rule is to install the rangehood at the manufacturer-recommended height, which is often between 600-750mm for electric cooktops and slightly higher for gas burners and BBQs.
For more details, read Schweigen: Discovering the Right Rangehood for Your Needs.
5. Overlooking Noise Levels
Rangehood noise can be a significant issue, especially in open-plan kitchens where the kitchen is part of the living area. Noise levels are typically higher for more powerful rangehoods, particularly when they aren’t installed in the best location. Factors like improper ducting and incorrect installations can further amplify noise. This can make or break the comfort of arguably the most important space in the home.
The number 1 way to avoid the noise is through careful placement of the motor, remote motors can be installed away from the space, within a roof or exterior wall. Out of sight, out of mind. (Well. Sort of).
If this is not an option, you will need to consider noise levels and how they will affect the livability of the space.
By avoiding these five mistakes, you can ensure that your rangehood installation is smooth and efficient, avoiding costly retrofits or modifications. Proper planning and expert installation will ensure that the rangehood functions effectively and fits seamlessly into the kitchen’s design.
Planning a New Kitchen or Project and Would Like Advice?
The team at Sydney Rangehoods are ready to help you with all aspects of the selection, planning and installation of rangehoods and ventilation.
Whatever the obstacles, we will find you rangehood system that works for you. To discuss your next project call Sydney Rangehoods on 0404 402 494.
