4 Difference Between Downdraft Hood & Overhead You Must Know

You're whipping up a culinary masterpiece, but instead of enjoying the delicious aromas, you're battling smoke, grease, and heat. Sound familiar? This is where a cooker hood comes in as your kitchen superhero!

Here's why a cooker hood is a must-have, not a maybe:

• Banish Battleground Odors: Tired of lingering food smells clinging to your cabinets and furniture? A cooker hood whisks them away, keeping your kitchen fresh and inviting.
• Evict Unwanted Guests: Smoke, steam, and grease – not exactly the dinner party you envisioned, right? A hood extracts these airborne villains, leaving your kitchen clear and comfortable.
• Breathe Easy: Cooking shouldn't leave you gasping for air. A cooker hood eliminates harmful fumes and improves indoor air quality, making your kitchen a healthier haven.

Downdraft vs. Overhead Extraction: The Great Kitchen Vent Debate

Now that you're convinced about the power of a cooker hood, let's delve into the two main options: downdraft and overhead extraction. Stay tuned as we explore the key differences to help you choose the perfect vent for your culinary adventures!

Comparison Between Downdraft Hood And Overhead Extraction

Different Between Downdraft & Overhead Hood #1: Basic Function

Image Credit: Canva

So you've decided to join the ranks of the kitchen heroes – a valiant cook who conquers culinary challenges! But even superheroes need a trusty sidekick, and for your kitchen, that sidekick is a cooker hood. But wait, there's a choice to be made: downdraft hood or overhead extraction? Let's break down the key differences to help you pick your perfect kitchen vent companion!

Downdraft Hood: Sleek & Discreet (But Needs Extra Effort)

• Imagine this: a sleek vent that pops up from your countertop, capturing cooking fumes right at their source. That's the downdraft hood in action! It works by pulling air across the cooktop and filtering it before sending it out through ducts under the floor or cabinets.
• The not-so-secret secret: Since downdraft hoods have to fight gravity, their extraction rates can be a tad lower. This means they might not be the best choice for the most enthusiastic home chefs who create epic culinary feats on a daily basis.
• Space-saving superhero: Downdraft hoods are a great option for smaller kitchens or those with limited wall space. They disappear into the counter when not in use, keeping your kitchen looking clean and streamlined.
• Height Matters: Keep in mind, downdraft hoods typically only rise 20-25cm above the counter. So, if your culinary adventures involve towering stockpots, a downdraft hood might not be your best friend.

Overhead Extraction: The Classic Champion (For Powerful Extraction)

• Picture a trusty hood mounted above your cooktop, silently sucking up steam, smoke, and grease. That's the overhead extraction hood in action! These work by pulling contaminants upwards through a filter and then venting them outside or recirculating them back into the kitchen.
• The Power of Up: Since steam naturally rises, overhead hoods generally have a more powerful extraction rate. This makes them ideal for frequent cooks who create a symphony of deliciousness (and potentially, a symphony of scents!).
• Aesthetics & Functionality: Overhead hoods come in a variety of styles, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. You can choose one that complements your kitchen's overall design while still providing essential ventilation.
• Mind the Ceiling Height: While overhead hoods offer powerful extraction, they do require some space above the cooktop for proper function. If you have a low ceiling, a downdraft hood might be a better fit.

Different Between Downdraft & Overhead Hood #2: Design

When it comes to cooker hoods, function is key, but don't forget about form! The design of your vent can significantly impact your kitchen's overall aesthetic. So, let's explore the design differences between downdraft and overhead hoods to help you choose your kitchen's stylish champion!

Downdraft Hood: The Stealthy Superhero (Ideal for Open Kitchens)

• Hidden Hero: Calling all fans of minimalism! Downdraft hoods are designed to disappear seamlessly into your countertop. They rise a mere 20-25cm when needed, making them practically invisible when not in action.
• Double Duty Design: Some downdraft hoods even integrate the vent opening directly into the stovetop surface, eliminating the need for a pop-up function. This creates a sleek, streamlined look that's perfect for modern kitchens.
• Open Space Advantage: Do you have a high-ceilinged kitchen that flows into another room? A downdraft hood won't obstruct your sightlines, allowing for a more open and airy feel.

Overhead Extraction: The Statement Maker (For Traditional or Decorative Styles)

• Classic Beauty: Overhead hoods are the traditional choice, often mounted on walls or ceilings directly above the cooktop. They come in a wide variety of styles, from sleek and modern to ornate and decorative.
• Design Duo: The right overhead hood can become a focal point in your kitchen, adding a touch of elegance or a pop of modern flair. Consider it a stylish partner to your cooktop.
• Flat Ceiling Friendly: Keep in mind that overhead hoods require a flat ceiling for proper installation. If your kitchen has unique architectural features, a downdraft hood might be a better fit.