If you are considering a new range, you may not realize that new range hood is an important part of you purchase. Most range hoods are sold as separate items, but they provide import venting of heat and smoke from the kitchen when you are cooking and are very important for large industrial type ranges that many people are starting to put in their homes.

Range hoods come in a wide array of styles and sizes, so you need to consider how the range hood will fit in with your décor of your home as much as the performance and features of the range hood. The style of the range hood does not have to match exactly with the style of your kitchen, but it also should not look out of place overpowering.

Range hoods come with two venting styles that can affect your options. Range hoods are manufactured with either internal or external venting. It is preferable to vent your range externally so you can remove smoke, grease and excess carbon monoxide outside your home. Typically range hoods vented through the roof for one story homes, or side vented for two story homes. If it is not possible to vent the range hood externally, you can install an internally vented hood that will trap grease and some smoke, but the they are not able to remove odors or harmful gases.

Nearly all range hoods on the market today come with built in lighting and a variable fan control. Some have variable lighting, but this is not as common for lower cost models. You will also need to consider the finish of the range hood as that can be a factor for long term maintenance. These days it is common to find stainless steel range hoods in nearly all styles and sizes, but panted finishes are still prominent and should not be discounted. Stainless steel is fairly easy to clean, but it will show dirt and fingerprints more quickly than a painted hood. Painted range hoods can fit in better with your décor and other appliances, but the paint can scratch if you use abrasive cleaners. All range hoods utilize stainless steel screens that can be effectively cleaned in your dishwasher.