Can you use a Ductless Range Hood Outside? (Answered)

Does the smoke from your grill annoy you? Then an outdoor range hood may be right for you. But should you get a ducted or ductless one?

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If you have a grill or enjoy cooking outside your home, you might wonder if purchasing a range hood for outdoor use is a good option. However, many are on the market, such as ductless or ducted range hoods. So, should you purchase a ducted or ductless range hood for venting outdoor cooking?

This article will teach you what a ductless range hood is and how it works to answer the question: Can you use a ductless range hood outside?

It is possible to install a recirculating hood outdoors. However, it is not advised. A ductless hood will not be powerful enough to vent your grill’s heavy smoke or strong cooking odors. You are better off getting a ducted outdoor range hood.

What are the different types of range hoods?

Range hoods generally come in two different configurations, ducted and ductless range hoods.

Image of an outdoor kitchen. Source: pixabay
Image of an outdoor kitchen. Source: pixabay

Ducted range hoods

Ducted hoods are typically found in commercial kitchens or residences with larger ranges that produce more smoke, fumes, or unclean air that needs to be vented outside.

Ducted hoods are more efficient at removing humidity and steam from the cooking area because they do not simply filter and recirculate the air but instead vent it out of the kitchen completely.

Ductless range hood

A ductless hood has the advantage of being more adaptable and may be positioned in almost any place. In addition, because a ductless range hood filters and recirculates air around the kitchen, you don’t have to worry about installing it near any pipes or ducts connected to the exterior.

Unfortunately, ductless range hoods are not without drawbacks. Because this sort of hood recirculates air rather than drawing in fresh air or letting out stale and dirty air, your kitchen may become fairly humid. In addition, the decibel levels of a ductless hood may be slightly higher than those of ducted exhaust systems because they frequently demand significantly more fan power.

The filter frequently contains activated carbon or charcoal, which aids in the removal of odors and smoke particles from the air, which is then cleanly recirculated throughout the kitchen. However, remembering that the filter must be cleaned or replaced regularly for optimal efficiency is also critical.

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My favorite range hood (at the moment):

COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood

Can you use a ductless range hood outside? (answered) | 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!

Can you use a recirculating range hood outside?

Simply put, the answer is no. A recirculating range hood is not powerful enough to pull in the amount of air necessary to prevent smoke-increased particles from spreading, especially outside, where your hood will be competing with the wind.

Is a ductless hood better than no hood at all

Any range hood is preferable to none at all. While ducted models are preferable, ductless hoods can still provide some ventilation, even outdoors, but of course, they would have to be extremely powerful. Ultimately it’s not a good idea; it is an expensive and complicated endeavor. But there is a solution; Get a range hood specifically made for outdoor ventilation.

How to properly vent outdoor cooking?

So, how do you vent outdoor cooking the right way? First, you can purchase a vented outdoor hood. There are a ton of range hoods specifically used for venting smoke from grills and firepits. These outdoor hoods are more than capable of venting heavy smoke and kitchen exhaust.

If you want even more tips and insights, watch the “Outdoor Kitchen Safety & Ventilation” video from the BBQGuys YouTube Channel.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about ductless range hoods.

Is a ducted or ductless hood better?

Ducted hoods are more effective and efficient when keeping your kitchen air clean. They can remove contaminated air better and faster than a ducted hood.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Range Hood?

It typically costs between $400 and $1,500 to install a range hood, with an average of $750. Installing a ductless range or a replacement range hood with existing ductwork falls on the lower end. Installing a ducted range hood with new ductwork comes near the high end.

Is it worthwhile to invest in ductless range hoods?

Unvented range hoods filter some oil and cooking aromas from the air, but they aren’t nearly as effective as vented range hoods. They also do not remove heat or humidity, so they will not keep your kitchen cool while you cook.

Is it necessary to vent a range hood outside?

No, range hoods without a duct, often known as ductless range hoods, can recirculate air back into the kitchen. Purchase a ducted range hood to clean your kitchen air more effectively.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you understand that it’s not advisable to use a ductless range hood outside. If you need one, however, go with one that is specifically for outdoor use.

This article covered a ductless range hood, how it works, and how to vent outside your home. Here are some key takeaways:

Key takeaways

  • Using a ductless range hood for a barbecue or outdoor use is not advisable.
  • Ductless range hoods are also ventless range hoods and recirculating range hoods.
  • There are special arrangements made specifically for outdoor use.

So, are you thinking of installing a ductless range hood? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? And what do you think of my list? 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 for your kitchen. Thanks for reading, and stay safe.

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Image Of Roger Harris
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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