What Is Stainless Steel Gauge? Which Is Best for A Range Hood?

Confused about the stainless steel gauge? Learn about the different stainless steel gauges and their uses in your kitchen to find the best one.

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16 gauge? 20 gauge? 24 gauge? What does it imply? Which stainless steel gauge is best for my new range hood?

This article will focus on helping you decide on the thickness (gauge) of metal to shop for and how to make the best choice for your situation.

The gauge of stainless steel refers to its thickness. Higher numbers may lead you to believe that the steel is thicker. However, unlike traditional scales, lower numbers indicate thicker metal sheets. As a result, 14 gauge stainless steel is more durable than 22 gauge steel.

What is stainless steel?

Stainless steel is a multifaceted material. It refers to a class of iron-based alloys (metals made by combining multiple metallic elements) that contain at least 10.5% chromium. This combination with chromium is what gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance. The chromium forms an ultrathin layer on the steel, known as the “passive layer.” This passive layer is essential for preventing rust and other forms of corrosion.

Image of a clean white painted kitchen with a range hood over a stove. Source: roam in color, unsplash
Image of a clean white painted kitchen with a range hood over a stove. Source: roam in color, unsplash

Furthermore, the alloy can only contain a maximum of 1.2% carbon to be considered stainless. Aside from that, the alloy may contain varying amounts of nickel, silicon, manganese, titanium, molybdenum, nitrogen, niobium, and other elements.

To summarize, stainless steel is a mixture of metals and other elements. The various combinations of these materials give rise to the various properties of stainless steel.

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My favorite range hood (at the moment):

COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood

What is stainless steel gauge? Which is best for a range hood? | 71ddmbmvgwl. Ac sl1500 | range hood homeland
My favorite range hood (at the moment):

COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood

This is one of the best hoods available at this price point. Reasonably strong CFM for the cost, and it has received rave reviews (over 3,800 reviews!). It looks great, and the LED lights provide a pleasant brightness. For the price, its performance and style are outstanding. Highly recommended!

Benefits of having a stainless range hood in your kitchen

Below are some benefits of having a stainless steel range hood in your kitchen.

1. Resistant to stains and corrosion

Stainless steel range hoods have exceptional resistance to stains and corrosion. The addition of chromium to stainless steel results in the unique properties of the stainless steel kitchen hood.

2. Ability to “self-heal”

The ability of the stainless steel range hood to heal itself is its distinguishing feature. Because of the chromium content, an chromium oxide film forms on the steel range hood. When the damaged stainless steel hood is exposed to oxygen, it begins healing.

3. Suitable for hygiene conditions

Because of the invisible layer of chromium oxide that protects stainless steel kitchen hoods, making them stain and corrosion-resistant, a stainless steel range hood is also an excellent choice for hospitals and other hygiene-conscious environments.

4. More power and less weight

One significant advantage of using stainless steel kitchen vent hoods over other metal range hoods is the significant strength-to-weight advantage. They are lighter than other metals, making them an excellent choice for your kitchen.

5. Long-lasting and scratch resistant

Stainless steel range hoods resist stains and rust and will not easily scratch during accidental collisions.

6. Germ-Resistant

As a range hood metal, stainless steel is non-porous, which means it resists germs and bacteria. This makes it a great choice for homes with children and pets.

7. It fits into any decor

A stainless steel range hood’s neutral appearance can complement almost any home. Whether you have a natural wood cabinet kitchen or a modern design.

Image of a well organized kitchen source sidekix media unsplash
Image of a well-organized kitchen. Source: sidekix media, unsplash

What are the gauges in stainless steel?

People appear to be most perplexed by stainless steel gauges. In many cases, we believe that a higher number is preferable. As a result, it is natural for people to believe that a heavier gauge of steel is superior.

The gauge of stainless steel refers to its thickness. Again, higher numbers may lead you to believe that the steel is thicker. However, lower numbers indicate thicker metal sheets. As a result, 14 gauge stainless steel is far more durable than 22 gauge steel.

Lighter gauge steel, for example, may be adequate for a small hand sink. However, heavier gauge steel will be required for larger, deeper sinks.

What gauge range hood should you get?

Consider a stainless range hood made of 14 gauge stainless steel, which is 25% thicker than 16 gauge stainless steel. The 19-gauge extreme air range hoods are both strong and thick. Anything heavier than 22 gauge may be too thin for a range hood. The 18-gauge material is also resistant to scratches, dents, erosion, and rust, making it quite durable.

What are the different types of stainless steel?

Stainless steel comes in a variety of types and grades that are used in a variety of industries around the world. The two most common premium-grade stainless steel sheets used in kitchen appliances are 430 and 304. While both can produce high-quality products resistant to corrosion and rust, some significant differences exist.

304 Stainless Steel

304 stainless steel is a premium grade steel used in outdoor applications that require extra moisture protection to prevent rust and corrosion and maintain that sharp new look for decades. Some 304 stainless applications have improved corrosion resistance over a wide temperature range, including desalination plants, sewage treatment plants, offshore oil rigs, harbor supports, and ship propellers.

Because of its corrosion resistance, premium-grade 304 stainless steel is used in appliances and hardware that will be in constant contact with water. It also has a faint yellow color, giving it a more upscale appearance. This is standard in most outdoor range hoods. Among the advantages of 304 stainless steel are:

Highly corrosion-resistant-used primarily in humid environments where steel can quickly oxidize (making it excellent for outdoor range hoods).

  • Initially non-magnetic until cold worked.
  • It is heat resistant due to the presence of chromium and nickel.
  • Because of its tastelessness and corrosion resistance, it is used in the food industry.
  • Handled and welded with ease.
  • Stronger than the majority of materials.

430 Stainless Steel

Well-known high-end kitchen appliance brands such as Wolf, Thermador, Viking, and Proline’s industrial quality range hoods use this premium-grade stainless steel in professional kitchens.

Compared to other steel finishes, 430-grade stainless steel, which is used in most professional kitchen range hoods, offers the following benefits:

  • Higher corrosion resistance—used in professional kitchens where intense scrubbing and sanitizing are required.
  • Superior heat resistance due to 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This makes it ideal for use with induction ranges and cooktops that generate high heat levels.
  • Premium stainless steel grade, which is used in kitchen appliances.
  • Exceptional brushed finish.
  • Only cold work and heat treatment can harden it.
  • Magnetic
  • If corrosion is stopped early, it can be polished and restored to its original finish.
  • Resistance to acidic corrosion caused by organic substances produced during cooking
  • Resistance to atmospheric corrosion

If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “Is Stainless Steel Magnetic? from the K & J Magnetics YouTube Channel.

A video called “Is Stainless Steel Magnetic? from the K & J Magnetics YouTube Channel.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about stainless steel gauges and range hoods.

Which is stronger, 18 gauge or 20 gauge stainless steel?

Thicker steel corresponds to smaller numbers. The metal gauge of 18 would be superior to that of 20.

What grade of stainless steel does not rust?

The 304 option has been tested for its durability against rust and oxidation and comes in a wide range of aesthetic and functional finishes. Stainless steel 304 may be found in various everyday items, including cookware, water tanks, and hardware.

Does WD-40 Remove rust from stainless steel?

Rust may be removed using WD-40 from iron, chromium, and stainless steel without scratching or chipping the surface. To loosen and remove extra surface rust, the Multi-Use Product works well.

Conclusion

Whatever grade of stainless steel your stove hood is made of, it will be a high-quality item that will last a long time with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning and polishing will extend the life of your hood and keep it looking great for a long time.

This article covered gauges in stainless steel, their types, and the benefits of having a stainless steel range hood in the kitchen. Here are some key takeaways:

Key takeaways

  • Stainless steel range hoods have exceptional resistance to stains and corrosion.
  • The gauge of stainless steel refers to its thickness.
  • The CFM ratings of the range hood indicate how much air it can move.
  • It is very easy to clean grease or any other type of oil with a stainless steel grease filter.

So, would you like to install a stainless range hood in your kitchen? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below (I read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out my full blog for more tips and tricks in your kitchen. Thanks for reading, and stay safe.

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Written by Roger Harris, Staff Writer

Hey there! My name is Roger, and I've been selling range hoods for over six years. I now run this blog all about range hoods and kitchen ventilation! If you're looking for a new range hood for your kitchen, this is the place for you.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Staff Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail.

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