Picture this: You’re in the middle of cooking up a Sunday roast, and the kitchen is starting to resemble a smoky pub from the ’80s. The windows are fogged up, the smell of fried onions is clinging to everything, and you’re waving a tea towel around trying to clear the air. Sound familiar? Without a decent kitchen extractor fan, this could be a regular scene in your home. It’s not just about banishing the smells – it’s about keeping the air clean and breathable.
We’re here to help you find the perfect kitchen extractor fan so you can keep your cooking space fresh and inviting. Whether you’re a culinary maestro or a casual cook, good ventilation is key to a pleasant kitchen atmosphere. In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about kitchen extractor fans and give you the lowdown on the top five models available. Let’s clear the air, shall we?
Top 5 Best Extractor Fans for Kitchen
- Best Overall – CIARRA CBCS6201 Wall Mounted Cooker
- Runner-up – TopStrongKitchen Extractor Fan
- Best Luxury – CIARRA CBCS9102 Stainless Steel Extractor Fan
- Best Budget – COMFEE PYRA17B-60 Wall Mounted Cooker Hood
- Best Under Cabinet – COMFEE SLIF17SS-60 Under Cabinet Wall Mounted Cooker Hood
1. Best Overall: CIARRA CBCS6201
Pros
- Stylish Design: Enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.
- Effective Airflow: Clears smoke and odours efficiently.
- Easy Controls: User-friendly push-button interface.
- Easy to Clean Filters: Aluminium mesh filters are dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Noise Level: At 63 dB, it’s slightly noisier than some competitors.
The CIARRA CBCS6201 is a standout extractor fan known for its sleek and modern design that fits seamlessly into contemporary kitchens. Built with brushed stainless steel, it brings a touch of elegance while offering robust functionality. It operates with an airflow rate of 370 m³/h, which is sufficient for most household kitchens, efficiently removing smoke, odours, and excess heat. The unit runs at a noise level of 63 dB Its user-friendly push-button controls make operation simple, while the aluminium mesh filters are easy to detach and clean.
The CIARRA CBCS6201 shines with its blend of aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. Its ease of use and straightforward maintenance make it a practical and valuable addition to any kitchen. Its balanced features, reliable performance, and stylish look earn it the top spot in our rankings.
2. Runner-up: TopStrong Kitchen Extractor Fan
Pros
- High Airflow Rate: Effective at quickly clearing larger volumes of air.
- Quiet Operation: Runs at a quieter 55 dB.
- Touch Controls: Modern and easy-to-use interface.
- Energy Efficient: Class A energy rating helps save on electricity.
Cons
- Complex Installation: This may require professional installation for optimal performance.
Why It’s the Runner-up
The TopStrong Kitchen Extractor Fan is an exceptional model, highly lauded for its quality build and impressive features. The fan is distinctive with its tempered glass and stainless steel design, offering a modern and high-end look. It boasts a high airflow rate of up to 700 m³/h (there are two options to choose from 350 and 700), making it capable of handling larger kitchens or heavier cooking sessions. The unit operates at a quieter noise level of 55 dB. Its touch control panel adds a modern touch to its usability, and the stainless steel filters are durable and easy to maintain. While the potentially complex installation process is a consideration, its overall performance, durability, and sleek design justify its position as the runner-up.
3. Best Luxury: CIARRA CBCS9102 Stainless Steel Extractor Fan
The CIARRA CBCS9102 is the epitome of luxury in kitchen extractor fans. Crafted from polished stainless steel, this model offers both high-end aesthetics and top-notch functionality. It features an impressive airflow rate of 650 m³/h, one of the highest in its class, ensuring your kitchen remains free from smoke, odours, and excess heat. The fan operates at a noise level of 60 dB, relatively quiet given its powerful performance. It’s rated Class A for energy efficiency, helping to keep your power bills in check. Its touch control panel with LED lights adds a sophisticated and user-friendly interface. The aluminium mesh filters are easy to remove and maintain, ensuring long-term efficiency.
Pros
- High Airflow: Exceptional at maintaining air quality with 650 m³/h.
- Aesthetic Design: Adds a luxurious feel to any kitchen.
- Energy Efficient: Class A energy rating for better energy savings.
- Modern Controls: Touch control with LED lights for easy use.
- Easy Maintenance: Aluminium mesh filters are easy to clean.
Cons
- High Cost: Premium features come at a higher price point.
Why It’s the Best Luxury Option
The CIARRA CBCS9102 is the epitome of luxury in kitchen extractor fans. Crafted from polished stainless steel, this model offers both high-end aesthetics and top-notch functionality. It features an impressive airflow rate of 650 m³/h, one of the highest in its class, ensuring your kitchen remains free from smoke, odours, and excess heat. The fan operates at a noise level of 60 dB, relatively quiet given its powerful performance. It’s rated Class A for energy efficiency, helping to keep your power bills in check. Its touch control panel with LED lights adds a sophisticated and user-friendly interface. The aluminium mesh filters are easy to remove and maintain, ensuring long-term efficiency. The CIARRA CBCS9102 represents the best in luxury for kitchen extractor fans. Though it comes at a higher price and has a slightly higher noise level than expected for a luxury model, its premium features and high-quality build make it worth the investment.
4. Best Budget: COMFEE PYRA17B-60
The COMFEE PYRA17B-60 is the go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable kitchen extractor fan. This model features a stainless steel pyramid design, which blends well with various kitchen styles. It offers a respectable airflow rate of 320 m³/h, sufficient for most small to medium-sized kitchens. Operating at a noise level of 62 dB, it performs quietly enough for everyday use. While it has a lower energy efficiency rating, it compensates with a budget-friendly price and reliable performance. The push-button controls are straightforward, and the aluminium mesh filters are easy to remove and clean.
Pros
- Affordability: Budget-friendly without sacrificing too much on features.
- Easy Installation: Simple to set up without professional help.
- Effective Performance: Decent airflow for smaller kitchens.
- Easy Maintenance: The aluminium mesh filters are straightforward to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Energy Efficiency: Lower energy efficiency rating
- Noise Level: Slightly noisier at 62 dB compared to some other models.
Why It’s the Best Budget Option
The COMFEE PYRA17B-60 is the go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable kitchen extractor fan. This model features a stainless steel pyramid design, which blends well with various kitchen styles. It offers a respectable airflow rate of 320 m³/h, sufficient for most small to medium-sized kitchens. Operating at a noise level of 62 dB, it performs quietly enough for everyday use. While it has a lower energy efficiency rating, it compensates with a budget-friendly price and reliable performance. The push-button controls are straightforward, and the aluminium mesh filters are easy to remove and clean. The COMFEE PYRA17B-60 offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. Despite its lower energy efficiency rating and slightly higher noise level, it delivers reliable performance at an affordable price, which secures its place as the best budget option.
5. Best Under Cabinet: COMFEE SLIF17SS-60
The COMFEE SLIF17SS-60 is a space-saving option designed for under-cabinet installation, making it perfect for compact kitchens. This model features a sleek stainless steel design that fits seamlessly under kitchen cabinets. It has an airflow rate of 200 m³/h, suitable for small to medium-sized kitchens, ensuring efficient removal of smoke and odours. The push-button controls are easy to use, and the aluminium mesh filters are simple to clean, ensuring consistent performance.
Pros
- Space-Saving: Ideal for smaller kitchens with limited space.
- Ease of Use: Simple push-button controls.
- Easy Maintenance: Aluminium mesh filters are easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Lower Airflow: Less powerful at 200 m³/h compared to other models.
Why It’s the Best Under Cabinet Option
The COMFEE SLIF17SS-60 is a space-saving option designed for under-cabinet installation, making it perfect for compact kitchens. This model features a sleek stainless steel design that fits seamlessly under kitchen cabinets. It has an airflow rate of 200 m³/h, suitable for small to medium-sized kitchens, ensuring efficient removal of smoke and odours. The push-button controls are easy to use, and the aluminium mesh filters are simple to clean, ensuring consistent performance. The COMFEE SLIF17SS-60 excels in its category due to its space-saving design and efficient performance. The model’s combination of convenience, quiet performance, and affordability make it the top pick for under-cabinet extractor fans.
Would you like to proceed with the next section on understanding kitchen extractor fans, or is there any other specific information you need further elaboration on?
Understanding Kitchen Extractor Fans
What are Kitchen Extractor Fans?
Kitchen extractor fans are essential appliances designed to improve indoor air quality by removing airborne pollutants generated during cooking. These fans are typically installed above cooking surfaces and work by drawing in air that contains smoke, odours, grease, and moisture. This air is then either expelled outside through a duct (ducted extractor fans) or passed through filters and recirculated back into the kitchen (ductless or recirculating extractor fans).
Key Functions and Types
- Ducted Extractor Fans: These fans expel air outside your home through ductwork. They are generally more effective in removing pollutants but require more complex installation.
- Ductless Extractor Fans: These models filter the air and then recirculate it back into the kitchen. They are easier to install but may not be as effective in removing all contaminants.
Why You Need a Kitchen Extractor Fan
Proper ventilation in the kitchen is crucial for a few reasons:
- Health Benefits: Extractor fans help remove harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and fine particles that arise from cooking. According to the National Institutes of Health, prolonged exposure to these pollutants can have adverse health effects, including respiratory issues and cardiovascular problems.
- Odour Control: Cooking, especially frying or grilling, often produces strong odours. An efficient extractor fan can help keep these odours from lingering and permeating the entire house.
- Moisture Regulation: Excessive moisture from boiling and steaming can lead to mould growth, which can damage your kitchen surfaces and affect your health. A good extractor fan helps maintain acceptable humidity levels.
- Smoke and Grease Removal: Extractor fans help keep your kitchen cleaner by removing smoke and grease particles from the air. This not only makes maintenance easier but also enhances the longevity of your kitchen appliances and surfaces.
Benefits Summarised
- Improved Air Quality: Reduces indoor air pollution.
- Enhanced Comfort: Keeps your kitchen pleasant.
- Health Protection: Minimises exposure to harmful pollutants.
- Maintenance: Reduces cleaning effort and maintains kitchen surfaces.
Key Features to Look for in Kitchen Extractor Fans
When selecting the best extractor fan for your kitchen, several key features should be considered to ensure you make an informed decision.
Airflow Rate (CFM) – Understanding Airflow Rate
The airflow rate is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and indicates how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM rating means better ventilation. For general guidance:
- Small kitchens (up to 100 square feet): A fan with a CFM of around 100–200 is usually adequate.
- For medium kitchens (100 to 200 square feet): look for a fan with a CFM of 200–300.
- Large kitchens (over 200 square feet): Needs a fan with a CFM of 300 or more.
Noise Level (Sones) – Significance of Noise Levels
Noise levels in extractor fans are measured in sones. A lower sone rating means quieter operation:
- Quiet: 1–2 sones (40–50 dB)
- Moderate: 3–4 sones (55–60 dB)
- Noisy: 5+ sones (65+ dB)
Considering noise levels is essential, especially in open-plan kitchens where noise can affect adjoining living spaces.
Size and Design – Considering Size and Design
The extractor fan’s size should match your kitchen space and the cooking surface on which it will be installed. Popular designs include:
- Chimney Hood: Mounted against the wall and has a chimney for ducting.
- Island Hood: Suspended from the ceiling over an island cooktop.
- Under Cabinet: Fixed under a kitchen cabinet.
- Wall-Mounted: Mounted directly to the wall.
Choose a design that complements your kitchen décor and fits into the available space.
Types of Filters
Extractor fans typically come with two types of filters:
- Grease Filters: Usually made of metal or aluminium; they trap grease particles and can be washed and reused.
- Carbon Filters: These are used in ductless models to remove odours; they need to be replaced periodically.
Maintaining these filters is crucial for the fan’s effectiveness and longevity.
Extra Functionalities to Consider
Modern extractor fans offer a range of additional features to enhance usability, including:
- Timers: Automatically switch off the fan after a set duration.
- Variable Speed Settings: Allow you to adjust the fan speed as needed.
- Integrated Lighting: Provides additional illumination for your cooking area.
- Smart Controls: Some models integrate with smart home systems or offer remote control capabilities.
These features can add convenience and enhance your overall kitchen experience.
FAQs about Kitchen Extractor Fans
How often should I clean the filters?
The frequency of cleaning the filters depends on the type of cooking you do and the specific fan model. As a general rule:
- Grease Filters: Clean every 1–2 months.
- Carbon Filters: Replace every 6–12 months.
Can I install an extractor fan myself?
Installation difficulty varies by model. Ducted fans often require professional installation, especially if new ductwork is needed. Ductless models are usually easier to install and may be suitable for DIY installation.
What size extractor fan do I need for my kitchen?
The size depends on the kitchen area and the cooking surface:
- Measure the width of your hob or stove.
- Choose a fan that covers this area adequately.
Are ductless extractor fans effective?
Ductless extractor fans are effective at reducing odours and smoke but may not remove moisture as efficiently as ducted systems. They are more versatile in terms of installation but require regular filter changes.
How do I reduce the noise from my extractor fan?
Reducing noise can be achieved by:
- Selecting a fan with a lower sone rating.
- Proper installation to avoid vibrations.
- Regular maintenance to ensure the fan operates smoothly.
Conclusion
We’ve discussed the importance of kitchen extractor fans and reviewed the top five models, each excelling in different categories such as overall performance, luxury, and budget. We also outlined key features to consider and answered common questions regarding extractor fans.Choosing the right extractor fan for your kitchen ultimately depends on your specific needs, kitchen layout, and preferences. Whether you prioritise budget, luxury, or space-saving options, ensure the model you choose aligns with these factors.
Related Reading
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How to Boost Your Extractor Fan’s Energy Efficiency: A Comprehensive Guide
