Kitchen Hood Ventilation - what you should know.

Watch this quick 60-second video for smart kitchen hood ventilation tips that answer the questions you didn’t even know you had.

You can have the most beautiful kitchen in the world—but if the ventilation isn’t done right, you’ll know it every time you cook. A kitchen hood is more than a decorative element; it’s your kitchen’s respiratory system. Here are a few things I wish more homeowners knew before they chose one.

1. CFM matters—but so does make-up air. Many homeowners are told to go big on CFM (cubic feet per minute), but if your system pulls too much air and your home is sealed tight (as many modern homes are), you can end up with poor performance and even dangerous back drafting. In many areas, 400+ CFM legally requires a make-up air system. Skipping that? You’re compromising safety and efficiency.

2. Width should match—or exceed—your cooking surface. Ideally, your hood should be as wide (or wider) than your range. That way, smoke and steam don’t escape around the sides. Undersized hoods are one of the biggest mistakes I see—even in high-end homes.

3. Mounting height isn’t arbitrary. Mount it too high, and it won’t capture anything. Too low, and it gets in your way. Most hoods are best installed 28" to 36" above the cooktop, depending on the model. Don’t guess—follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, and make sure your cabinetmaker or GC understands that detail matters here.

4. Quiet matters more than you think. If your hood sounds like a jet engine, you’re less likely to use it. Look for lower sone ratings (ideally under 6 at full speed) and consider a remote blower system if the ducting allows.

5. Style without performance is just a sculpture. Don’t fall for looks alone. The best hoods combine strong capture, proper lighting, quiet operation, and effective filtration. If you cook often, this is one place not to cut corners.

I’ve seen far too many stunning kitchens where the hood is an afterthought—and the client ends up frustrated. If you’re not sure what’s right for your space, I’m happy to offer guidance. Good ventilation isn’t just a detail—it’s a necessity.