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range hood replacement

Posted: Fri May 05, 2017 2:25 pm
by annaz
Our range currently has a microwave range hood. While it is vented through the roof, we still get strong smells down the hall from cooking. It looks as though they used the springy-type ducting, at least from hood, through cabinet through ceiling. I'm debating on removing the microwave entirely as it's full of grease and 15 years old.

Seems that a regular range hood would be a better venting system and easier to clean, but I would loose the space the microwave range hood supplies.

I'm finding as I age, all these "latest and greatest" really requires oodles of upkeep. So first, what is your experience with replacing this hood in general. Should the entire duct be replaced as well? And should I go with a simple range hood, that is there for that strict purpose? And let me say, neither of can do this on our own. I am seeing that this is a HUGE expense for something simplistic. Is there a true benefit to even having all this? Seems like all it is a grease trap overall.

Thanks,
Ann

Re: range hood replacement

Posted: Fri May 05, 2017 8:17 pm
by Greg
Personally I would have gone through the wall for the vent, I have my doubts that a dryer hose through the roof would allow enough flow to do much good.
The problem you may have is a plane vent/light unit is going to run $75-100 to buy plus the instillation and you would still have to find a counter top Micro.
I have seen closeout over the range micros for $100 - 150. Sou you will have to decide what will work best for you.

Greg

Re: range hood replacement

Posted: Sat May 06, 2017 9:30 am
by annaz
The wall seems simpler by far. They could have put the range where the fridge is (outside wall) for sure. (Like the dryer, but that's another story.) So the range exhaust goes through the center which between the peak and side wall. Rather far.

So I just wasn't sure if the venting needs replacing or do I need to find the same "connection" if that is even possible.

Re: range hood replacement

Posted: Sat May 06, 2017 10:51 am
by yakima4$
What you are experiencing is something all will realize regarding micro range hood versus just a simple range hood.
Micro range hoods have a lot more nooks and cranny's that trap grease and other particulates that are air born.
They are not as efficient of removing grease laden air as a straight range hood, even though they quote a high CFM.
When replacing look for a range hood that has a high CFM , multi speed and lights.
Stick with top exhaust and min 6-8 inch exhaust flue.
Advantages of top exhaust is the chimney affect, where air is drawn up through the pipe even when not in use.
Make sure when replaced that back draft damper is installed and someone reads the directions and follows them especially regarding construction and termination of hood exhaust.
Side exhaust is OK if already exists.
Side exhaust hoods back draft dampers have a tendancy to flap and make noise if loacted on windy side of house and can allow a draft to blow down on your food when cooking on a windy day.
My thoughts

Ron

Re: range hood replacement

Posted: Sat May 06, 2017 10:54 am
by yakima4$
I should have added use smooth wall rigid. Corrugated flex pipe creates more turbulence and traps more grease in each of the folds.

Re: range hood replacement

Posted: Sat May 06, 2017 4:39 pm
by annaz
Okay. Good points. Thank you.