Extracting odours, smoke, and grease from your kitchen is essential to maintain a clean and healthy environment. One of the devices that you can use to achieve this task is an extractor fan. These fans, often situated above the cooker hob, work by drawing in the air and either extracting it outside or filtering it and recirculating it back into the kitchen. In the UK, several types of extractor fans serve this purpose. But the question that often bothers many homeowners is, which type of extractor fan is best for reducing odors in a UK kitchen? This article aims to ease that decision-making process by presenting you with the top five extractor fans types that you can install in your kitchen.
Ceiling Extractor Fans
Ceiling extractor fans, as the name suggests, are installed in the ceiling above the kitchen hob. They are a popular choice among homeowners because of their sleek design, which often integrates seamlessly with the kitchen’s decor.
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Ceiling fans are known for their powerful extraction capabilities, able to draw in large volumes of air in a short span, which effectively removes odors from the cooking space. They generally come with a built-in grease filter that helps to reduce the amount of grease that builds up in the fan, prolonging its lifespan.
However, ceiling extractor fans may not be suitable for all kitchens. Their installation requires a certain ceiling height, and they work best in open-plan kitchens or kitchens with an island layout. Additionally, their price is typically on the higher end compared with other types of extractor fans.
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Island Extractor Fans
Island extractor fans are designed to be installed over a kitchen island where the cooker hob is located. They are similar to ceiling extractor fans in terms of their design and extraction capabilities.
What sets island fans apart is their versatility. They can be adjusted to different heights, which makes them ideal for both tall and short users. In addition, many models come equipped with LED lights, providing additional illumination for the cooking area.
Like ceiling fans, island extractor fans also come with a built-in grease filter, reducing maintenance and helping to prolong the lifespan of the fan. However, they can be more expensive than other types of fans, and their installation may require a professional.
Wall-mounted Extractor Fans
Wall-mounted extractor fans are another popular choice, primarily for their affordable price and ease of installation. These fans are installed on the wall directly above the cooker hob.
Despite their relatively low price, wall-mounted fans are not to be underestimated in terms of performance. They can effectively draw out odors, smoke, and grease from the kitchen. Most models come with either a metal or a charcoal filter, both of which do an excellent job at trapping grease and reducing odors.
However, wall-mounted extractor fans may not be suitable for all kitchen designs. They require a wall directly behind the cooker hob, which may not be possible in some kitchen layouts such as an island kitchen.
Downdraft Extractor Fans
Downdraft extractor fans are a relatively new addition to the extractor fan market. Unlike other types of fans that are installed above the cooker hob, downdraft fans are installed behind the hob on the kitchen countertop.
When in use, the fan rises from the countertop and draws in the air horizontally across the hob, effectively removing odors and smoke. When not in use, the fan retracts back into the countertop, providing a sleek and minimalist look.
Downdraft extractor fans are known for their innovative design and powerful extraction capabilities. However, they can be rather expensive, and their installation requires a significant amount of space on the countertop.
Integrated Extractor Fans
Lastly, we have integrated extractor fans. These fans are built into the kitchen cabinets above the cooker hob, providing a neat and unobtrusive design.
Integrated fans come with either a metal or a charcoal filter, which effectively traps grease and reduces odors. They are generally more affordable than other types of extractor fans and are a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget.
However, integrated extractor fans may not be as powerful as other types, and their installation may require a professional to ensure that they are fitted properly into the cabinet.
Choosing the best extractor fan for your kitchen ultimately depends on various factors such as your kitchen layout, budget, and personal preferences. But regardless of the type of extractor fan you choose, regular maintenance, particularly cleaning or replacing the filters, is crucial for the fan to continue operating at its best and effectively reduce odors in your kitchen.
Additional Information for Inline Extractor Fans
Inline extractor fans, though less common, are a suitable option for homeowners who want to keep their kitchen design sleek and clean. The inline fan is installed within the ducting in the attic space above the kitchen, making it invisible from the kitchen view. This type of cooker hood is a perfect fit for small kitchen layouts where every inch of space is crucial.
Inline fans are known for their high extraction rate, capable of pulling out large amounts of smoke, odours, and grease efficiently. They operate by drawing air from the kitchen and venting it outside, ensuring a fresh and odourless kitchen environment. Inline extractor fans also have the advantage of being relatively quiet since the fan itself is not located in the kitchen. The noise level is considerably lower compared to other types of extractor fans.
However, one downside of inline fans is their installation process. The installation of an inline extractor fan is more complex and typically requires a professional. They also need a ducting system that leads outside, which may not be feasible in all homes. But overall, for those looking for a powerful, quiet, and unobtrusive solution, an inline extractor fan can be the best cooker hood option.
Choosing the Best Extractor Fan: What to Consider
Choosing the best extractor fan for your kitchen is not just about the type of fan but also involves considering other factors that will ensure the fan performs optimally. The first aspect to consider is the extraction rate. A higher extraction rate means the fan can extract more air, effectively removing odours, grease smoke, and steam. Fans with a high extraction rate are especially beneficial for larger kitchens or for those who cook regularly.
The noise level is another important factor. While all extractor fans make some noise, some are noisier than others. If your kitchen is open-plan or near your living or dining area, a quieter fan, like an inline extractor fan or a downdraft extractor fan, might be more suitable.
Additionally, consider the filter type. Most fans come with either metal or charcoal filters. While both are effective at trapping grease and reducing odours, charcoal filters are generally better at odour reduction. However, they need to be replaced regularly, while metal filters can often be cleaned and reused.
Lastly, the design and price are other factors to keep in mind. Ceiling extractors and island hoods are trendy for their sleek design, but they tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, integrated and wall-mounted hoods are more affordable and can still be a great addition to your kitchen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best type of extractor fan for reducing odours in a UK kitchen will greatly depend on your personal needs and preferences, as well as the layout and size of your kitchen. Each type of extractor fan – whether it’s a ceiling extractor, island extractor, wall-mounted extractor, downdraft extractor, integrated extractor, or an inline extractor – comes with its unique advantages and drawbacks. By weighing these against the extraction rate, noise level, filter type, design, and cost, you can select the extractor fan best suited to your requirements. Remember that regular maintenance of your chosen extractor fan, particularly cleaning or replacing the filters, is crucial to ensure it continues to function effectively and keep your kitchen fresh and odour-free.
