A kitchen extractor fan, also called a cooker hood or range hood, is one of those appliances that is easy to overlook when planning a kitchen. Yet the right extractor can make a noticeable difference to cooking comfort by removing steam, smoke, grease and cooking odours from the room.
Choosing one is not simply a matter of picking the largest or most powerful model you can afford. The type of extraction, size, airflow, noise level, installation method and available kitchen space all need to be considered.
For South African homes, there are also practical considerations such as whether the extractor can vent outside, how much installation work is required and whether a recirculating model would be more appropriate.
This guide explains what to look for before buying a kitchen extractor fan and how to choose a model that suits your cooking habits and kitchen layout.
1. What Does a Kitchen Extractor Actually Do?
Cooking produces more than just food.
Boiling water creates steam. Frying produces grease particles. Grilling can create smoke, while certain foods produce strong odours.
Without adequate ventilation, these can accumulate in the kitchen and potentially spread into adjoining rooms.
An extractor fan is designed to help remove or filter some of these contaminants.
Depending on the type of extractor, it may:
- Remove air from the kitchen and discharge it outside
- Filter the air and return it to the kitchen
- Capture grease particles
- Reduce cooking odours
- Remove steam and some airborne moisture
- Provide additional lighting over the cooking area
The effectiveness of an extractor depends heavily on its installation and the way it is used.
2. Decide Between Extraction and Recirculation
One of the most important decisions is whether you want the extractor to vent air outside or recirculate filtered air back into the kitchen.
Ducted extraction
A ducted extractor draws cooking air through filters and then sends it through ducting to the outside.
Advantages include:
- Removes air from the kitchen
- Helps remove steam
- Removes cooking odours rather than simply filtering them
- Can be highly effective when correctly installed
The disadvantage is that the kitchen needs a suitable route for ducting.
Depending on the property, this may require additional installation work.
Recirculating extraction
A recirculating extractor draws air through filters and then releases the filtered air back into the room.
These models can be easier to install because external ducting isn’t required.
They can be useful in:
- Apartments
- Rental properties
- Kitchens where external ducting isn’t practical
- Renovations where structural changes aren’t desirable
However, recirculating systems do not remove the air from the kitchen. They filter it and return it.
This means they may be less effective at dealing with steam and moisture.
3. Which Extraction Method Is Better?
The answer depends on your kitchen.
If you can install suitable external ducting, ducted extraction generally provides a more complete approach to removing cooking air.
If external ventilation isn’t practical, a good recirculating extractor can still help reduce grease and odours.
Before buying, determine what your kitchen can realistically accommodate.
There is little point buying a high-powered ducted extractor if there is no practical way to install the ducting.
4. Choose the Right Extractor Type
Kitchen extractors come in several different designs.
Common types include:
- Wall-mounted chimney hoods
- Under-cabinet extractors
- Built-in or integrated extractors
- Island hoods
- Downdraft extractors
- Ceiling-mounted extractors
The right type depends largely on the position of your hob and the kitchen layout.
5. Wall-Mounted Chimney Hoods
These are among the most recognisable kitchen extractor designs.
They are generally installed against the wall above the hob and often have a chimney-style section extending upwards.
Advantages include:
- Strong visual presence
- Available in many sizes
- Suitable for many kitchen layouts
- Often available with relatively powerful extraction
- Can provide good coverage over a standard hob
They can also become a design feature within the kitchen.
However, they require adequate wall space and usually need careful consideration of ducting.
If you’re planning the cooking area itself, see How to Choose the Right Hob or Cooktop for Your Kitchen for guidance on gas, ceramic, electric and induction hobs.
6. Under-Cabinet Extractors
Under-cabinet models are installed underneath an overhead kitchen cabinet.
They can be useful where space is limited.
Advantages include:
- Compact design
- Can be relatively unobtrusive
- Suitable for smaller kitchens
- Makes use of existing cabinet space
Their effectiveness depends on the design, size and airflow capacity.
Make sure the extractor provides adequate coverage for your hob.
7. Integrated Extractors
Integrated or built-in extractors are designed to blend into kitchen cabinetry.
They can provide a clean appearance without making the extractor the visual centre of the kitchen.
This can be particularly attractive in modern kitchens where appliances are intended to disappear into the cabinetry.
However, installation needs to be planned before the cabinets are constructed or modified.
8. Island Extractors
If your hob is installed in a kitchen island, a conventional wall-mounted extractor won’t be suitable.
An island extractor is designed to hang above the cooking area.
These models are often visually prominent and can be expensive.
They also require careful installation because the extractor needs to be securely mounted and properly positioned above the island.
Before buying, check the ceiling structure and installation requirements.
9. Downdraft Extractors
Downdraft extraction works differently.
Instead of sitting above the hob, the extractor draws cooking air downward or toward a ventilation system positioned near the cooking surface.
These systems can provide a very clean appearance and are sometimes used with kitchen islands.
However, they can be more complicated and expensive than conventional overhead extractors.
For most households, they are a specialised option rather than a necessity.
10. Ceiling-Mounted Extractors
Some modern kitchens use ceiling-mounted extraction systems.
These can be visually discreet and are particularly suited to certain contemporary kitchen designs.
However, they can require more complex installation and may not be appropriate for every kitchen.
When considering one, pay particular attention to extraction performance and the distance between the extractor and cooking surface.
11. Measure the Hob Before Buying
One of the simplest but most important rules is to consider the width of your hob.
The extractor should generally provide suitable coverage over the cooking area.
If the extractor is too narrow, it may not capture rising cooking vapour effectively.
Measure:
- Hob width
- Available wall or cabinet width
- Extractor width
- Available depth
- Space above the hob
- Distance to the ceiling
Don’t rely on a photograph to determine whether an extractor will fit.
12. Check the Recommended Installation Height
Extractors need to be positioned at an appropriate height above the cooking surface.
The correct distance can vary depending on:
- Extractor design
- Gas or electric hob
- Manufacturer recommendations
- Local installation requirements
Gas cooking can produce different heat patterns from electric or induction cooking, so the required clearance may differ.
Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions rather than using a generic measurement.
13. Understand Extraction Rate
Extractor performance is often expressed as an airflow rate.
Depending on the manufacturer and market, specifications may be given in cubic metres per hour or another airflow measurement.
A higher number indicates greater potential airflow, but it doesn’t automatically mean the extractor is better.
The effectiveness of the system also depends on:
- Duct length
- Duct diameter
- Number of bends
- Filters
- Installation quality
- Kitchen size
- Cooking habits
A powerful extractor connected to poorly designed ducting may perform less effectively than expected.
14. Consider Your Kitchen Size
The size of your kitchen can help determine the extraction capacity you need.
A small kitchen may require less airflow than a large open-plan kitchen.
However, open-plan living spaces can present a particular challenge because cooking odours can travel much farther.
If your kitchen opens directly into a dining or living area, effective extraction becomes more important.
Think about the entire space rather than treating the kitchen as an isolated room.
15. Open-Plan Kitchens Need More Consideration
Open-plan kitchens have become common in modern homes.
They offer a spacious feel but can allow:
- Cooking smells to spread
- Steam to move into living areas
- Grease particles to travel
- Heat to accumulate
A suitable extractor can help reduce these problems.
If you frequently fry, grill or cook foods with strong aromas, consider a model with adequate airflow and effective grease filtration.
16. Noise Level Matters
Extractor fans can become surprisingly annoying if they are excessively noisy.
Noise is particularly noticeable in open-plan kitchens.
Check the manufacturer’s noise specification before buying.
A quieter extractor can be especially useful if:
- Your kitchen is next to the living room
- You entertain frequently
- You cook for long periods
- You live in a small apartment
- You often have conversations while cooking
Don’t look only at the maximum extraction setting.
Check noise levels across the available fan speeds if the information is provided.
17. More Powerful Doesn’t Always Mean Better
It can be tempting to buy the extractor with the highest airflow specification.
But excessive extraction can create its own problems.
A very powerful extractor may:
- Be noisier
- Consume more electricity
- Cost more
- Require larger ducting
- Create unwanted drafts
The goal is adequate extraction rather than maximum extraction.
Choose the capacity according to your kitchen, cooking habits and installation arrangement.
18. Consider the Filters
Filters are an important part of an extractor.
Many models use grease filters designed to capture airborne grease produced during cooking.
Common filter types include:
Metal filters
These are often washable and can usually be cleaned periodically.
Disposable filters
Some recirculating systems use replaceable filters.
Charcoal filters
These can help reduce cooking odours in recirculating systems.
If your extractor uses replaceable filters, check their availability and replacement cost before buying.
A cheap extractor with expensive or difficult-to-find replacement filters may not be economical over the long term.
19. Cleaning the Filters
Extractor filters need regular maintenance.
Grease can accumulate over time, reducing airflow and potentially creating an unpleasant buildup.
If the extractor has washable filters, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Depending on the design, filters may be:
- Hand washable
- Dishwasher safe
- Removable for cleaning
A model with easily removable filters can make routine maintenance much easier.
20. Check Whether Charcoal Filters Are Required
Recirculating extractors often use charcoal or activated-carbon filters to help reduce cooking odours.
These filters have a limited useful life and generally need periodic replacement.
Before buying a recirculating model, find out:
- Whether charcoal filters are included
- How often they should be replaced
- What replacement filters cost
- Whether replacements are readily available
This is an ongoing ownership cost that is easy to overlook.
21. Look at the Lighting
Many extractors include built-in lights.
These can provide useful illumination over the hob.
Depending on the model, you may find:
- LED lights
- Multiple lights
- Adjustable lighting
- Different brightness levels
Good lighting can make cooking easier, particularly when the extractor is installed beneath cabinets that create shadows.
LED lighting is generally attractive because of its low energy consumption and long operating life.
22. Consider the Controls
Extractor controls vary considerably.
Common options include:
- Push buttons
- Rotary controls
- Touch controls
- Slider controls
- Remote controls
Some premium models may also offer smart or connected features.
Again, simplicity can be valuable.
A control system that is easy to operate with slightly greasy hands may be more useful than an elaborate system that looks impressive but is awkward to use.
23. Check for a Timer or Automatic Shut-Off
Some extractors include timers that allow the fan to continue operating for a set period after cooking.
This can be useful because steam and odours may remain after the cooking has finished.
An automatic shut-off feature can also prevent the extractor from being left running unnecessarily.
These are convenience features rather than essentials, but they may be worthwhile depending on your habits.
24. Consider Heat and Moisture
An extractor can help remove some of the heat, steam and moisture generated during cooking, particularly when it vents outside.
However, it should not be treated as a substitute for proper ventilation throughout the kitchen.
If your home regularly experiences condensation, dampness or excessive humidity, investigate the wider ventilation situation rather than relying entirely on the cooker hood.
25. Think About Ducting
If you choose a ducted extractor, the ducting system can have a major effect on performance.
Ideally, ducting should be:
- Appropriately sized
- As short as practical
- Properly sealed
- Designed with as few sharp bends as possible
Every unnecessary bend can affect airflow.
Before purchasing the extractor, determine how the ducting will travel from the appliance to the outside.
This is particularly important when renovating an existing kitchen.
26. Don’t Forget the External Vent
If the extractor vents outside, the external outlet also needs consideration.
The system needs an appropriate route through the wall, roof or other suitable location.
This may involve additional building work.
Before ordering an appliance, establish whether external extraction is permitted and practical for the property.
This can be particularly important in sectional-title developments, apartments and rental properties where modifications to exterior walls may require permission.
27. Consider Your Property Type
The ideal extractor for a freestanding house may not be suitable for an apartment.
If you live in:
- A house
- An apartment
- A townhouse
- A sectional-title development
- A rental property
check what modifications you are permitted to make.
A ducted extractor may require building or body-corporate approval in some properties.
A recirculating extractor may therefore be more practical where external ducting isn’t permitted.
28. Gas Cooking Makes Extraction More Important
Gas cooking produces combustion products as well as heat and cooking emissions.
Appropriate kitchen ventilation is therefore particularly important when using gas.
Make sure the extractor is correctly installed and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you are installing a new gas hob, consider the hob and extractor as a combined system rather than choosing them independently.
See How to Choose the Right Hob or Cooktop for Your Kitchen when comparing gas, ceramic, electric and induction cooking.
29. Match the Extractor to Your Cooking Style
Your cooking habits should influence your choice.
If you mainly boil and simmer
A moderate extractor may be sufficient.
If you frequently fry
Prioritise effective grease filtration and adequate airflow.
If you grill indoors
Look for good extraction performance and appropriate grease filtration.
If you cook spicy or strongly flavoured foods
Odour control may be particularly important.
If you regularly cook large meals
Consider both airflow and extractor width.
If you have an open-plan kitchen
Noise and odour control become especially important.
30. Consider the Appearance
An extractor can occupy a prominent position in the kitchen.
You can choose between:
- Stainless steel
- Black
- White
- Glass-fronted designs
- Integrated cabinetry
- Minimalist ceiling designs
Appearance matters, but don’t choose an extractor based solely on aesthetics.
A beautiful extractor that doesn’t adequately suit your cooking requirements will become frustrating over time.
31. Check the Materials and Build Quality
Look at the construction of the extractor.
Consider:
- Housing material
- Filter quality
- Fan assembly
- Control quality
- Glass thickness
- Ease of access for cleaning
Stainless steel can provide a durable and relatively easy-to-clean exterior.
Glass can create a modern appearance but may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance.
32. Think About Long-Term Running Costs
The purchase price is only one part of the cost.
Consider:
- Electricity consumption
- Replacement filters
- Charcoal filters
- Cleaning supplies
- Repairs
- Installation
- Ducting
- Replacement parts
A slightly more expensive extractor may provide better value if it has lower ongoing costs and readily available parts.
33. Read Reviews Before Buying
Online reviews can provide useful information that isn’t obvious from product specifications.
Look for repeated comments about:
- Actual extraction performance
- Noise
- Filter cleaning
- Installation
- Build quality
- Lighting
- Control reliability
- Replacement filter availability
Reviews are particularly useful for identifying practical problems such as rattling, difficult-to-clean filters or noisy operation.
Don’t rely on one review. Look for patterns across multiple buyers.
34. Don’t Assume the Most Expensive Extractor Is Best
Premium kitchen extractors can include sophisticated controls, high airflow and attractive designs.
But more expensive does not automatically mean more appropriate.
If you have a small kitchen and mainly prepare simple meals, you may have little reason to buy a commercial-style extractor.
Conversely, someone who regularly cooks large meals in an open-plan kitchen may benefit from spending more on extraction performance and noise control.
35. Kitchen Extractor Buying Checklist
Before purchasing, work through this checklist.
Size
- Is it wide enough for the hob?
- Will it fit the available space?
- Is there sufficient clearance above the cooking surface?
Extraction
- Is ducted extraction possible?
- If not, is recirculation suitable?
- Is the airflow appropriate for the kitchen?
Noise
- What is the noise level?
- Is it acceptable for an open-plan kitchen?
Filters
- What type of filters are used?
- Are they washable?
- Are replacement filters easy to obtain?
- What do replacements cost?
Installation
- Is ducting required?
- Where will the ducting go?
- Will building work be necessary?
- Are permissions required?
Features
- Does it have useful lighting?
- Is there a timer?
- Are the controls easy to use?
- Does it have the fan speeds you need?
Long-term costs
- What will replacement filters cost?
- How much electricity does it use?
- Is local servicing available?
36. Extractor Fan vs Recirculating Cooker Hood: Which Should You Choose?
The two approaches solve the ventilation problem differently.
| Feature | Ducted Extraction | Recirculating |
|---|---|---|
| Vents air outside | Yes | No |
| Removes cooking odours | Very effective | Filters some odours |
| Helps remove steam | Yes | Limited |
| Installation | More complicated | Usually simpler |
| External duct required | Yes | No |
| Suitable for apartments | Depends on permissions | Often easier |
| Filter maintenance | Grease filters | Grease + odour filters |
| Ongoing filter costs | Usually lower | Can be higher |
The choice depends on what your kitchen and property can accommodate.
Final Thoughts
A kitchen extractor is more than a decorative appliance above the hob. A well-chosen system can help control cooking odours, grease, steam and heat, making the kitchen more comfortable to use.
Start by deciding whether you can install a ducted system or whether recirculation is more practical. Then consider the extractor’s width, airflow, noise level, filter system, lighting and installation requirements.
If you cook frequently, don’t underestimate the importance of extraction performance and noise. If you live in an apartment or rental property, investigate installation restrictions before buying.
Most importantly, choose the extractor as part of the overall cooking area rather than as an isolated appliance. Your hob, oven, extractor, cookware and kitchen layout all need to work together.
A little planning before you buy can prevent expensive installation problems and help ensure that the extractor you choose is genuinely useful every day.