Can You Use An Under Cabinet Range Hood Without A Cabinet? 6 Installing Steps

Every household needs an under-cabinet range hood. However, not everyone has the space in their kitchen to set up some cabinets. It depends on space, kitchen layout, etc.

These are just some facts about this article. There is a lot more to it. Still curious to learn? Let’s dive into it.

Can You Use An Under Cabinet Range Hood Without A Cabinet?

You can definitely use an under-cabinet range hood without a cabinet. The main purpose of a range hood is to remove all the smoke, odor, fumes, and grease from the air while cooking and vent it outside. As long as it’s doing the job, it does not matter whether it is attached to a cabinet or not.

Also, there are range hoods that don’t have any cabinets anyway. For example, an island hood is directly attached to the ceiling. So, do not worry about any of these. As soon as it does its job, any design is fine. If needed, you can do it just like you can install a wall oven be installed in a base cabinet

How To Install Under Cabinet Range Hood Without Cabinet?

Under cabinet range hoods are important for any kitchen. It sucks in all the impurities and vents them outside. However, range hoods don’t need to have cabinets. Installing under cabinet range hood without a cabinet is simple. This isn’t complicated, like replacing kitchen cabinet doors with IKEA doors. All you need to do is follow a few steps. Want to learn about the steps? These are:

• Step 1: Choose The Location
• Step 2: Prepare The Kitchen
• Step 3: Mark The Holes
• Step 4: Insert Mounting Screws
• Step 5: Install Ductwork
• Step 6: Connect Electrical Wiring

Step 1: Choose The Location

Determine where you want to set the range hood. Choosing the right location is important. There should be enough space between the bottom of the range hood and the cooktop so that you can move and work freely. Consider your kitchen design to make the right decision. You can use an under-cabinet range hood for the cabinets installed over laminate flooring.

Step 2: Prepare The Kitchen

Remove all the kitchen appliances and utensils from the chosen location. The space should be empty. It will lessen the chances of possible safety hazards. Depending on your kitchen design, you may or may not need a kitchen renovation.

Step 3: Mark The Holes

Can you mount an under cabinet range hood to the wall? Of course! It is the most common way to mount an under-cabinet range hood. Use a pencil or a marker to mark the location of the mounting holes on the underside of the range hood. Before marking, make sure to measure everything properly otherwise, it will affect the range hood installation process. For that, you may need to remove thermofoil from cabinets as well.

Step 4: Insert Mounting Screws

Use a drill to create pilot holes (screw holes) where you marked the mounting holes previously. Be careful not to get hurt while drilling. If you don’t have any previous experience with a drill, I would recommend letting someone else do it. Cause How to install a range hood vent through ceiling isn’t a peace of cake. You may need to cut a hole in the ceiling, connect the vent pipe to the hood, and secure it in place properly.

Insert the screws into the holes. Make sure to tighten them properly. It is extremely important to tighten the screws until they are completely secured. You can replace halogen under cabinet lighting with LED lights.

Step 5: Install Ductwork

Connect the duct to the range hood and run it to the outside of your home. There are some ductless range hood without cabinet too. If you want to install a ductless range hood wall mount, you can. However, the ductless hood only filters the air. Whereas a ducted range hood directs the smoke outside. You can also use it while refinishing the hickory cabinets.

Not only that, the noise level of a ductless hood is much louder than a ducted hood. So, ducted hoods are better than ductless range hoods. The ultimate decision depends on your personal preference.

Step 6: Connect Electrical Wiring

Connect the electrical wiring according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the range hood is successfully installed, turn it on and test to see if it is properly working or not.

How to mount under cabinet range hood without cabinet? It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when you are doing it yourself. A small mistake, especially for ductwork, will ruin the whole thing.

What’s The Purpose Of The Cabinet Range Hood

Well then, do under cabinet range hoods work? Yes, it does work. The purpose of a range hood is to remove all the smoke, grease, odor, steam, and fumes from the kitchen while cooking. It works by- 

• Sucking in all the impurities and contaminated air.
• Exhausting or recirculating them inside the duct work under the cooktop.
• Filtering them through a series of filters and venting them out.

Is There Any Alternative On the Cabinet Range Hood?

Definitely, there are some alternatives for a cabinet range hood. Here are a few of the ones that are the most similar to under cabinet range hood. Curious to know. Here you go;

Wall Mounted Range Hood

Wall-mount range hoods are the most common range hoods. As you can understand from the name itself, wall-mount hoods are mounted securely on the walls in the kitchen. Make sure to keep an adequate amount of gap between the cooktop and the range hood, ideally 28-36 inches.

There are various cabinet range hood models. You can choose any of them according to your personal preference and the vibe of the kitchen. 

Ceiling Mounted Range Hood

This under-cabinet range hood is quite similar to the wall-mount range hood. The only difference is it is attached to the ceiling. This is why this type of vent hood is also known as the island hood or floating range hoods. The sleek design adds a modern look to the kitchen while providing proper ventilation. You can also call it a floating shelf range hood.

Downdraft Range Hood

This type of range hood is stalled sideways instead of the traditional one that is attached up. These cabinet range hoods pull the fumes and odors and recirculate them with the help of charcoal filters. The ductwork is beneath the cooktop. These types of range hoods are not suitable for every home.

Can an under cabinet range hood be mounted on the wall? You will need to consider your kitchen design, ventilation power, and personal preferences to choose an alternative.

Can You Cover An Cabinet Range Hood?

Certainly. There are various ways to cover an under-range cabinet hood. Here are a few options to consider to cover a range hood. Can’t wait to learn more? Here it is; 

Custom Cabinet Hood

You can always build a custom cover to cover your range hood. The additional benefit is that you can match the style of your kitchen and finish according to your personal preference with a custom cabinet hood. 

Decorative Panel

A decorative panel is a creative alternative to cover an under-cabinet range hood. It can be attached to the underside of the range hood to hide it from view. Make sure to choose the one that matches and compliments your kitchen.

Trim Kit

In some range hoods, the manufacturers offer a default trim kit. This kit contains materials to cover the exposed edges of the range hood. It gives the range hood a more finished look. However, not every manufacturer offers trim kits.

Ventilation is extremely important in terms of range hoods. So, when covering an under-cabinet range hood, make sure not to affect the ventilation system.

What Type Of Cover Is Suitable For a Cabinet Range Hood?

Any type of cover will be suitable for a cabinet range hood as long as it meets certain criteria. What are these? Read ahead to learn about them.

Size And Dimensions

To find the perfect cabinet hood or cover, take proper measurements of the cabinet hood. Choose the cover that perfectly matches the size and dimensions of your cabinet range hood.

Material And Finish

cabinet range hoods are made of various materials, such as wood, laminate, stainless steel, and many more. To choose the most suitable one, consider the material and finish of your range hood so that it matches the style. Also, prioritize the ones with higher heat and moisture resistance.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is the most important factor for a range hood. It should be able to suck air effectively and exhaust or recirculate it properly. The ventilation power is measured with CFM- Cubic Feet per Minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the range hood is in terms of ventilation.

Accessibility

Choose the cabinet range hood that is more accessible for you. It will save you a lot of time and money in case you require maintenance or replacement for any of the components.

If you face difficulty with any of these things, make sure to consult a professional to guide you through this.

Tips To Make Cabinet Range Hood Long Lasting

Maintenance is necessary for any home appliance. In this way, you can always repair any potential issues and add a few more years to the lifespan of your home appliance. Want to know the tips to make your cabinet range hood long-lasting? Here it is;

• Clean the cabinet range hood regularly so that the grease and dust do not accumulate.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions while cleaning the fillers to maintain proper airflow. The same goes for replacing it.
• Check the ductwork once in a while to ensure the range hood is properly vented to the outside. If it is needed then replace granite and replace cabinets from time to time.
• Regularly inspect the range hood. Promptly repair any possible damage.
• Use cookware that produces less smoke and fumes.
•  Do not let heat get trapped or be mindful not to produce excessive heat.
• If you feel like anything is wrong, call professionals as soon as possible. 
• Schedule professional maintenance once in a while to identify and repair any potential issues.

Strictly follow all the rules and regulations instructed by the manufacturer throughout the installation and maintenance process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Well, then the sum up: Can you use an under cabinet range hood without a cabinet? Of course. As long as it serves its purpose, it can be used anyway. While installing the range hood, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you need any assistance in anything, call professionals immediately.

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