How to install a range hood vent through exterior wall?

Range hoods are an important component in any kitchen. They are used to draw up steam, smoke, and all the excess vapors of cooking from your stovetop. They vent out of the house and some even recirculate the air in the kitchen with no external venting.

Replacing and removing an old range hood can take a bit of work and we want to share the steps to get it done.

Here are a few tips on how to install range hoods vent through an exterior wall:

1. If Necessary, Remove Old Hood

Shut off the power to the range from your breaker box.
Disconnect all electrical wires, and wiring connectors and unplug the hood.
With the help of someone else, supporting the weight, remove the support screws from the range.
Lift and set aside the old range.

2. Locate and Mark the Vent Holes

Unpack the new range hood and remove the filter, electrical housing cover, and exhaust fan. It is ideal that the new hood is large and extends an inch past the stovetop on all four sides.
Use a screwdriver and hammer to remove the knockouts for the cables and duct. Insert a cable connector into the cable knockout.
With the help of someone else, mark the locations for the cable and duct by holding the hood in place against the chosen wall. Some models may have a template to mark the vent holes.

3. Cut an Interior Hole and Drill Locator Holes

Choose the direction of the range hood vent that will lead to the outdoor exterior wall directly. If the stove is not on an exterior wall, consult with a home improvement specialist regarding the vent.
With a reciprocating saw or hole saw, cut a vent hole through the plaster or interior drywall.
Using a long bit, drill locator holes at each corner of the vent hole through the exterior wall.
Consult with a plumber or electrician if you need to relocate pipes or wires while cutting or drilling.

4. Cut the Siding

Find the locator holes you drilled outside the house.
Use a marker or pencil to connect the dots and outline the vent hole.
With a reciprocating saw, keyhole saw, or saber saw with an extra-long blade, go ahead and follow the outline. Then, remove the siding.

If you are going through a masonry wall, use a slightly different method to cut through the wall.

Use a long masonry bit to drill the locator holes.
Outline carefully and double-check that the vent fits with room to spare. Begin drilling holes about every inch along the outline.
Using a cold chisel and hammer, chip between the holes.
When the hole is finished, follow the instructions from step 5 for attaching the vent.
Drill holes and drive masonry screws to attach the duct cap outside.

5. Attaching the Duct

From the outside, insert the duct’s wall cap into the opening and check if the duct is long enough to reach the range hood. If not, purchase a duct extension and attach it with duct tape and sheet metal screws.
Apply caulk to the siding where the cap flange will rest.
Finish pushing the cap into place and fasten with screws. Caulk all around the flange.

6. Run Power to the Range Hood

Shut off power to the circuit and make sure all the hood’s power switches are in the “off” position.
Run cable from a nearby junction box or receptacle through the hole in the wall.
Strip the sheathing and attach the cable to the range hood with the cable connector.
Mount the hood by driving mounting brackets or screws into adjacent cabinets and studs. You may need someone else to hold the hood in place while you secure the screws.
If you need to extend wiring to the location of the vent hood, consult an electrician.

7. Connect the Wires

First confirm that the power is switched off at the breaker box.
Splice the black wire to the black lead, white wire to the white fixture lead, and the ground wire to the green lead.
Fold all the wires into place and replace the electrical cover.
Reattach the range filter and fan.
Restore power and test the range hood vent.

Lily Ann Cabinets has a collection of range hoods and we make it easy to pick something that fits your kitchen regardless of the style!

FAQs:

1. Can you vent a range hood through the wall?

Yes, you can either have a ducted range hood that vents to the exterior of your home or a ducted range hood that recirculates air within the home.

2. Is it better to vent range hood through the wall or roof?

The best option for your range hood ventilation is to vent vertically through the roof since hot air rises. Vent through a side wall if you cannot vent directly above your hood.

3. How much does it cost to get hood vents installed?

The range for installation of your new range hood by a contractor is around $200 to $500 depending on the complexity of your installation. This does not include parts, adding or modifying ductwork, or electrical work.