Having an effective exhaust fan is essential for any home kitchen. Not only does it improve ventilation and indoor air quality, but it also helps clear away smoke, grease, odors, and excess moisture produced during cooking.
While most new homes come equipped with a kitchen exhaust fan, older homes often lack proper ventilation. Replacing an old, ineffective fan or installing a new one in your residential kitchen is a DIY project any homeowner can tackle.
This guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, from choosing the right fan to wiring and installation.
Types of Kitchen Exhaust Fans
Kitchen exhaust fans come in two main types: ducted and ductless. Ducted fans are more effective at removing contaminants, while ductless models recirculate air through filters.
Ducted Fans
Ducted exhaust fans are the most common type installed in residential kitchens. They are designed to be vented outside through ductwork, removing cooking byproducts along with excess heat, moisture and odors.
Within ducted fans, there are two main designs:
- Centrifugal or impeller fans have a spinning wheel that draws air up through the bottom and pushes it horizontally.
- Blower fans use an enclosed fan motor and are more powerful and quieter.
While more expensive, blower fans are generally the better choice for most residential kitchens.
Ductless Fans
Ductless fans recirculate air back into the kitchen through a filter instead of venting it outside. They are easier to install since no ductwork is required.
However, ductless fans are less effective at removing contaminants like grease. The filters also need frequent cleaning and replacement.
Ductless fans work well as supplemental ventilation but are not recommended as a primary exhaust fan.
Fan Size and Capacity
An exhaust fan’s capacity is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CFM, the more air the fan can effectively remove.
Choosing a fan with adequate CFM for your kitchen size is crucial for proper ventilation. As a general guideline:
- 100 CFM for small kitchens
- 300-400 CFM for medium kitchens
- 500-600+ CFM for larger kitchens
Consider the size of your cooktop, whether you do a lot of frying or broiling, and if your kitchen has a high ceiling. All of these factors mean you need greater CFM.
Kitchen Ventilation Requirements
Before installing a new exhaust fan, take some important measurements of your kitchen space.
Calculate Needed Airflow
Use the kitchen size chart above to determine the recommended CFM for exhaust fans in your kitchen. Make sure the fan you select is rated for at least that level of airflow.
Measure Cooktop Size
Your cooktop’s overall dimensions will determine the minimum size of the exhaust hood. For optimal smoke and odor capture, choose a fan at least as wide as the cooking surface.
Consider Ceiling Height
Fans mounted on higher ceilings require greater CFM to properly ventilate the space. Ducted fans are recommended for ceilings above 9 feet, while ductless models work better for standard 8 ft. ceilings.
Selecting the Right Exhaust Fan
With accurate kitchen measurements and recommended CFM in hand, start researching exhaust fan models that fit your criteria.
Match CFM Rating
Compare the CFM ratings of different fans to find models that meet or exceed the recommended airflow for your kitchen size.
Evaluate Noise Level
An exhaust fan’s noise rating is measured in sones. The lower the sones, the quieter the fan. Look for models rated at 1.0 sones or less for quiet operation.
Ducted vs. Ductless
Decide whether you want a ducted fan that vents outside or a ductless model that recirculates air internally. Ducted is strongly recommended for the most effective ventilation.
Extra Features
Consider optional features like integrated LED cooktop lighting, remote controls, automatic shutoff, and filter change reminders.
Set a Budget
Kitchen exhaust fans range from $100 on the low end to $1000+ for high-end models. Set a budget that fits both your needs and resources.
Preparing for Installation
Once you have selected the ideal exhaust fan for your kitchen, it’s time to get set up for installation.
Electrical Requirements
Your new exhaust fan may require a dedicated circuit. Choose an overhead location that provides access to wiring.
Plan Ductwork Route
For ducted fans, map out the duct route through the ceiling and exterior wall based on the exhaust fan location.
Gather Tools and Materials
You’ll need measuring tape, drywall saw, drill, screwdrivers, ladder, heavy duty screws, duct tape, metal ducting, wiring supplies, and any fan-specific installation parts.
Pick a Mounting Location
Ideally the fan should mount 18-24 inches above the cooktop and at least 30 inches away from walls or corners.
Check Manufacturer Instructions
Read the installation manual thoroughly to understand the fan-specific steps and any special considerations.
Mounting the Exhaust Fan
With preparations made, it’s time for the exhaust fan installation itself.
Cut the Mounting Hole
Refer to the template in the instructions for hole size and use a drywall saw to cut an opening in the ceiling/wall.
Secure the Fan Housing
Insert fan housing in the hole and use included screws or nail it directly to ceiling joists or wall studs for a sturdy mount.
Island or Wall Installs
For island mounts, use threaded rods to suspend the fan. Wall-mounted units typically attach directly to wall studs.
Connecting Ductwork
Ducted exhaust fans require connecting and sealing ductwork to vent contaminants outside.
Attach Ducting to Fan Outlet
Use sheet metal screws to connect straight, rigid ducting to the outlet on the fan housing.
Seal All Duct Joints
Use aluminum duct tape to seal joints between duct sections. This prevents leaks.
Vent Outside Through Exterior Wall
Run ducting through the ceiling and out a vent hood installed in an exterior wall or soffit.
Completing Electrical Connections
With the mechanical installation complete, the exhaust fan needs to be wired to a power source and control switch.
Connect Wiring to Power Supply
Follow instructions to connect the fan wires to 120v household wiring. Use proper wire nuts and connectors.
Install Fan Speed Control Switch
Mount the included fan control switch on the wall for easily turning the exhaust fan on/off.
Test Fan Speed Settings
Turn on the power and test all the fan speeds work through the control switch.
Finishing Touches
The exhaust fan is mounted and wired, but there are still some final steps to complete the installation.
Seal Gaps Around Housing
Use caulk to seal any gaps between the fan housing and ceiling to prevent air leaks.
Install Filter, Baffles, Covers
Replace any filters, baffles, or housing covers per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Test Airflow
Turn on the fan and verify you can feel adequate airflow. Adjust any settings to maximize ventilation.
Clean Up Work Area
Remove any installation debris and tools when finished. The exhaust fan is now ready for regular use!
Operating and Maintaining the Fan
To keep your new exhaust fan working properly, follow usage guidelines and keep up with periodic maintenance.
Proper Fan Usage
Turn on the fan several minutes before cooking and leave it running for 15 minutes after to fully clear all contaminants.
Regular Filter Cleaning
Clean aluminum mesh filters monthly by hand or in the dishwasher. Charcoal filters should be replaced every 6-12 months.
Clean Fan and Ducts
Wipe down the fan blades and housing every 2-3 months. Have ductwork professionally cleaned annually.
Annual Motor Maintenance
Check and lubricate the fan motor yearly. Replace worn out motors for optimal airflow.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
In case issues arise with your newly installed kitchen exhaust fan, here are solutions for some common problems:
Fan Not Turning On
Check for a tripped breaker, faulty switch, or loose wiring connection. Inspect fuses and reset breaker.
Weak Airflow
Clean filters, ducts, and housing. Make sure nothing is blocking the fan. Adjust speed to highest setting.
Excess Noise
Tighten mounting, adjust fan covers, lubricate motor or bearings. Replace damaged or unbalanced fan blades.
Rattling
Inspect ducting for loose sections or gaps. Tighten mounting bolts. Adjust fan speed controls.
Address any problems with your exhaust fan right away to restore proper air circulation.
By following this complete guide, you can successfully install an effective exhaust fan to improve kitchen ventilation. Pair it with other tips like using the cooktop back burners first, opening windows while cooking, and adjusting the fan speed to only what is needed, and you will enjoy cleaner, healthier air during meal prep.
