How do you install an under-cabinet ductless range hood?

Installing an under-cabinet ductless range hood is a similar process to installing a standard range hood. Though, the key difference is that with an under-cabinet ductless range hood there is no vent to hook up to. While this may seem confusing initially, the process is quite simple. Here is your step-by-step guide on how to install an under-cabinet ductless range hood!

Tools Needed

• Power drill
• Tape measure 
• A pencil
• Keyhole saw or reciprocating saw
• Cabinet jack or something similar to prop up the range hood

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Plug in the range hood

1. Before installing your range hood make sure it is fully functional by taking it out of its box and plugging it in. 

2. Remove any packaging material

1. After you have finished checking your range hood be sure to remove any packaging materials like plastic tape. Make sure to check the lights on the range hood for tape. These are often easy to miss!

3. Dry fit the hood

1. The first step in the actual installation is to dry fit the range hood. Start by marking the areas where fastening screws will eventually go. Then make sure the hood is level and centered. Also, be certain that your range hood is at least 24 inches above the cooktop or range. 

4. Drill holes and install anchors

1. Depending on the manufacturer of your range hood, you will either need to drill pilot holes or install brackets into the underside of the cabinet. It is also important to note that if your model comes with plastic anchors, these should be inserted into the pilot holes after drilling. Your range hood may come with a paper model showing you where to install screws. Utilize this if it is available. 

5. Pull the wiring through the cabinet

1. After completing the previous two steps it is imperative that you thread the wiring or power cord through the cabinet. If your model does not come with a premade hole then you can drill one yourself. You can either do this with a drill bit of 2” diameter or by using a keyhole saw. 

6. Fasten the hood

1. Make sure to fasten the hood to the underside of your cabinet using screws or brackets. The materials you use will depend on the instructions your manufacturer provides you with. This step may require the help of another person or a jack of some kind. 

7. Plug in or wire your range hood

1. Depending on the model of your hood, you can either plug it in or connect the wires attached to it using wire nuts. 

8. Install a charcoal filter

1. The next step is to install a charcoal filter. This filter will collect grease and any smells that may arise from cooking. You cannot use any other type of filter when installing a ductless range hood. Make sure to replace this filter periodically.

For more home improvement information and guides please visit Lily Ann Cabinets today!

FAQ: 

1. How do you measure for a ductless range hood?

Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Cooktop
Use a tape measurer to find the width of your cooking surface by starting from one side of the cooktop and running the measuring tape to the opposite side of the cooktop surface.
Step 2: Measure the Width under the cabinets
Measure the available space underneath the cabinetry you plan on securing the vent to. Extend the measuring tape straight across to the opposite side, being sure to keep it parallel to the cooktop surface.
Step 3: Measure the height of the space above the cooking surface
Measure the available space above the cooking surface by securing the measuring tape at the base of the cabinets above the cooktop, then extend the measuring tape straight down until it reaches the cooktop surface. There should be 24 to 36 inches of space between the bottom of the range hood and the cooktop surface.
Step 4: Measure the depth of the cooking surface
To measure the depth of the cooking surface, secure one end of the measuring tape at the back end of the cooktop then extend the measuring tape to the outside edge of the cooktop surface.

2. Are ductless range hoods worth it?

Ductless range hoods are cost effective due to not requiring ductwork so that means no contractors are needed to install the hoods.

3. What does a ductless range hood do?

Ductless range hoods circulate the air in your kitchen so that smoke, cooking grease and other airborne contaminants are filtered out to keep the air clean and safe for your family.

4. What is the highest CFM range hood?

To meet the recommended CFM requirements, you'll need a range hood with 250 CFM.

5. What are some tips to keep my range hood clean and efficient?

Check out our How to Clean Range Hood Filter for more information!

6. Are ductless range hoods better than ducted hoods?

Ducted hoods are better than ductless hoods when it comes to power and efficiency. A ductless hood does not completely remove the cooking odors, smoke, and grease from your kitchen air, where a ducted hood will move all the smoke and odors to the outside.