Kitchen odors can be a real pain, especially if you can’t install a traditional vented range hood. Recirculating vent hoods, also called ductless vent hoods, are a fantastic solution because they filter the air and send it back into the kitchen, no outside ductwork needed. I’ve been using one for years in my apartment, and it’s made a huge difference in keeping cooking smells from lingering. This guide will walk you through some of the best recirculating vent hoods on the market, helping you choose the right one for your cooking space.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Broan-NuTone Glacier Series: Powerful, stylish, and offers great value.
- Cosmo 5U30: Budget-friendly option with decent performance.
- AKDY 30″ Wall Mount: Sleek design with touch controls and good filtration.
- Hauslane Chef Series WM-730: High-end performance with professional features.
- Faber Inca Lux: Compact and discreet, perfect for smaller kitchens.
Top 5 Best Recirculating Vent Hood Reviews
1. Broan-NuTone Glacier Series
The Broan-NuTone Glacier Series is a popular choice for good reason. It strikes a great balance between performance, style, and affordability. This vent hood effectively removes smoke and odors, making it a solid all-around performer for most kitchens.
Pros:
- ✅ Effective at removing smoke and odors
- ✅ Sleek, modern design that fits most kitchens
- ✅ Easy to install and maintain
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit noisy on higher settings
- ❌ Charcoal filters need to be replaced regularly
- ❌ Lighting could be brighter
Verdict: A great option for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish recirculating vent hood without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for average cooking needs.
2. Cosmo 5U30
If you’re on a budget, the Cosmo 5U30 is definitely worth considering. It’s one of the most affordable recirculating vent hoods available, and it still manages to provide decent performance. Don’t expect top-of-the-line power, but it’s a good option for light cooking and smaller kitchens.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable
- ✅ Compact design that fits in small spaces
- ✅ Easy to operate
Cons:
- ❌ Not as powerful as other models
- ❌ Can feel a bit flimsy
- ❌ Louder than more expensive options
Verdict: A budget-friendly choice that’s suitable for apartments or smaller kitchens with light cooking needs. It gets the job done without emptying your wallet.
3. AKDY 30″ Wall Mount
The AKDY 30″ Wall Mount vent hood is all about style. Its sleek stainless steel design and touch controls give it a premium look. Beyond aesthetics, it offers effective filtration and multiple fan speeds, making it a functional and attractive addition to any modern kitchen.
Pros:
- ✅ Modern and stylish design
- ✅ Touch controls are easy to use
- ✅ Good filtration performance
Cons:
- ❌ Installation can be a bit tricky
- ❌ Touch controls can be overly sensitive
- ❌ More expensive than basic models
Verdict: If you value aesthetics and are willing to spend a bit more, the AKDY 30″ Wall Mount is a great choice. It combines style with functionality.
4. Hauslane Chef Series WM-730
For serious home cooks, the Hauslane Chef Series WM-730 is a standout. It boasts powerful suction, multiple baffle filters, and a durable build quality. This vent hood is designed to handle heavy-duty cooking and keep your kitchen air clean and fresh, even with frequent use. I used to have a Hauslane range hood and loved the professional feel of it.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely powerful suction
- ✅ Baffle filters are easy to clean
- ✅ Durable and well-built
Cons:
- ❌ One of the more expensive options
- ❌ Can be quite loud on the highest setting
- ❌ Bulky design may not fit all kitchens
Verdict: A high-performance option for those who cook frequently and need a vent hood that can keep up. It’s an investment, but it’s worth it for serious cooks.
5. Faber Inca Lux
The Faber Inca Lux is designed to be discreet. This built-in vent hood seamlessly integrates into your cabinetry, making it virtually invisible. Despite its compact size, it still offers decent performance and is ideal for smaller kitchens or anyone who wants a minimalist look.
Pros:
- ✅ Discreet and compact design
- ✅ Easy to integrate into cabinetry
- ✅ Quiet operation
Cons:
- ❌ Not as powerful as larger models
- ❌ Can be difficult to install
- ❌ Limited features compared to other options
Verdict: Perfect for those who want a vent hood that blends seamlessly into their kitchen design. It’s a good choice for smaller spaces and minimalist kitchens.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right recirculating vent hood involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Size: Make sure the vent hood is at least as wide as your cooktop. A wider hood is better at capturing smoke and odors.
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): This measures the airflow. Higher CFM means more powerful ventilation. For gas cooktops, aim for at least 100 CFM per 10,000 BTUs of your cooktop’s total output.
- Filtration: Look for models with effective grease filters (usually aluminum mesh) and charcoal filters for odor removal. Make sure the filters are easy to access and clean or replace.
- Noise Level: Vent hoods can be noisy, especially on higher settings. Check the decibel (dB) rating. Lower dB numbers mean quieter operation.
- Installation: Consider whether you can install the vent hood yourself or if you’ll need professional help. Some models are easier to install than others.
- Features: Some vent hoods come with extra features like LED lighting, touch controls, and automatic shut-off timers. Decide which features are important to you.
- Budget: Recirculating vent hoods range in price from under $100 to several hundred dollars. Set a budget and stick to it.
FAQs
Q: How often do I need to replace the charcoal filters?
A: It depends on how often you cook, but generally, you should replace the charcoal filters every 3-6 months.
Q: Can I convert a vented range hood to a recirculating one?
A: Yes, most vented range hoods can be converted to recirculating models by adding charcoal filters.
Q: Are recirculating vent hoods as effective as vented ones?
A: No, vented range hoods are more effective at removing smoke, odors, and moisture because they exhaust air outside. However, recirculating vent hoods are a good alternative when venting outside isn’t possible.
Q: How do I clean the grease filters?
A: Most grease filters can be cleaned in the dishwasher or by soaking them in hot, soapy water. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling.
Conclusion
Choosing the best recirculating vent hood for your kitchen depends on your cooking habits, kitchen size, and budget. Whether you need a powerful workhorse like the Hauslane Chef Series or a budget-friendly option like the Cosmo 5U30, there’s a recirculating vent hood out there that’s perfect for you. Take your time, consider your needs, and you’ll be breathing easier in no time.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
