Under Cabinet Range Hoods vs. Wall Mount Range Hoods
Range hoods can help rid the air of smoke and lingering kitchen odors. Each type of range hood can have its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to know which type will work best for your kitchen. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between under cabinet vs wall mount range hoods to help you decide which one to buy.
What are Under Cabinet Range Hoods?
Under cabinet range hoods install below cabinets and above your range, featuring a slim design so you can still utilize cabinet storage space. These range hoods are typically ductless, using air recirculation to filter air and push it back into the kitchen.
Under cabinet range hoods typically extend past cabinet depths in order to provide adequate coverage for all the burners on the range or cooktop, with standard sizes ranging between 30 and 36 inches wide.
Under Cabinet Range Hood Advantages
With a smaller size, under cabinet range hoods can be great for those short on storage space and can often be a more affordable and easier installation option when compared to wall mount range hoods.
Space-saving: As suggested in the name, under cabinet range hoods fit under your cabinets, allowing for more storage space inside cabinets.
Ease of installation: These range hoods can be easier to install on your own after referring to the owner’s manual for guidance. Be sure to contact a professional if you are not comfortable installing this yourself.
Affordable: Typically sold at a lower price point, under cabinet range hoods can be more affordable than other range hoods.
Under Cabinet Range Hood Disadvantages
Some disadvantages of under cabinet range hoods can include less coverage overall and fewer design options than other range hoods.
Less coverage: Since under cabinet range hoods are generally smaller than wall mount range hoods, they may provide less coverage over a cooktop.
Design: Under cabinet range hoods typically have fewer design options as they are made to fit under cabinets.
Shop Whirlpool® Under Cabinet Range Hoods
Maximize cabinet space while keeping your kitchen well-ventilated with Whirlpool® Under Cabinet Range Hoods. Select models offer LED Task Lighting to help you see what you're cooking and Full-Width Grease Filters to help keep the kitchen clean of unwanted grease and odors.
What are Wall Mount Range Hoods?
Wall mount range hoods, also known as canopy hoods, attach to the wall above and behind your range. Ideal for frequent frying, searing and sautéing on the stovetop, they offer powerful venting and function similar to a chimney by funneling air out of the kitchen.
These range hoods typically come in 30- or 36-inch widths, covering the width of the cooking surface below.
Wall Mount Range Hood Advantages
Wall mount range hoods can offer a few different advantages vs. under cabinet range hoods when it comes to coverage, design and performance.
- More coverage: Wall mount range hoods are typically bigger than under cabinet range hoods, offering a wider coverage area.
- Design: These hoods typically offer more variety in design than under cabinet range hoods and can be a focal point in your kitchen.
- Performance: Most Whirlpool® Wall Mount Range Hoods have a 300-400 CFM Motor Class1, offering a powerful ventilation performance.
Wall Mount Range Hood Disadvantages
Some disadvantages of wall mount range hoods can come from their bigger size and potentially complex installation.
More space needed: Because of their bulkier design, wall mount range hoods may require more space than typical range hoods and may take away extra cabinet storage space.
Complex installation: You may have to contact a professional to install these range hoods.
- Higher price point: Wall mount range hoods are typically sold at a higher price point than undercabinet range hoods and may not be as cost effective.
Shop Whirlpool® Wall Mount Range Hoods
Add a stylish centerpiece to your kitchen while achieving optimal ventilation with Whirlpool® Wall Mount Range Hoods. Select models offer Noise Reduction Technology for quiet ventilation and Perimetric Venting Technology to help quickly remove smoke and odors.
What are the Differences Between Under Cabinet and Wall Mount Range Hoods?
Under cabinet and wall mount range hoods both help remove smoke and odors from the kitchen, but differ in other ways. Under cabinet range hoods are smaller, meant to fit below cabinets and blend into your kitchen. Wall mount range hoods are bigger and can be used as a focal design point in your kitchen.
Take a look at the chart below to compare the differences between under cabinet vs wall mount range hoods.
| Range Hood Type | Vent Type | Installation | Sizing | Design Flexibility | Ventilation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under Cabinet | Typically ductless and recirculate air with the option for convertible models | Can be installed yourself or with the help of a professional | 24-, 30- or 36-inch width | Below cabinets | 190-400 CFM Motor Class1 |
| Wall Mount | Typically ducted and ventilate air outside the home, with the option for convertible models | May require rewiring or creation of a vent hole through the roof; professional recommended | 30- or 36-inch width | Attached to the wall or ceiling and available in chimney, curved glass and stainless steel designs |
300-400 CFM Motor Class1 |
Explore Whirlpool® Range Hoods
Whirlpool® Range Hoods help rid your kitchen of lingering odors and smoke, with select models offering features like High Performance Venting to help quickly remove smoke, odor and moisture and Dishwasher-Safe Grease Filters for easy cleaning. Easily compare canopy, microwave hood combination, under cabinet and downdraft vent hood options from Whirlpool brand or explore all Whirlpool® Range Hoods.
Was this article helpful? Pass it on
Learn more about Whirlpool® Appliances
home heartbeat
Ready for more tips, home hacks and appliance guides?
1. Performance varies based on installation. Resources available at aham.org.
