WHAT DO PEOPLE PREFER, CARBON EXTRACTOR HOOD INSTALLATION OR SUCTION?

When installing an extractor hood in the kitchen, many people find themselves at the crossroads of choosing between two popular types: the charcoal extractor hood and the suction hood. Both options offer different advantages and adapt to different space, installation and use needs. In this blog, we will help you understand their characteristics, differences, advantages and disadvantages so that you can decide which is the best option according to your preferences and lifestyle.

What is a carbon extractor hood?

The activated carbon hood is designed for those who want a simpler installation and does not require drilling or vents. This type of hood filters the air instead of extracting it, running with activated carbon filters that absorb odors and retain grease in the air. By not depending on ducts to expel air, this system recirculates it after filtering it, returning it to the kitchen free of odors and grease.

Advantages of carbon hoods:

Easy installation: Perfect for spaces where drilling is not possible.
Versatility in design: By not depending on a duct, there are more location and aesthetic options.
Simple maintenance: Although you have to change the filter from time to time, it is not a complex process.

Disadvantages:

Changing filters: Requires replacement of carbon filters periodically, which implies an additional cost.
Less effective in intense smoke: In kitchens where cooking is constantly done or excessive oils are used, it may be less effective than suction.

What is a suction range hood?

This type of extractor hood sucks in air and expels it outside the home through a duct, which means that air contaminated with odors, grease and smoke is directed outside the kitchen. This system is ideal for those who want deeper air cleaning and live in a location where duct installation is possible.

Advantages of suction hoods:

Greater effectiveness: Ideal for eliminating dense smoke and strong odors, keeping the air fresh.
Does not require frequent filter changes: Although it requires cleaning of its internal components, it does not require filter changes as often as the carbon model.
Ideal for intensive kitchens: Perfect for people who cook frequently or make preparations that generate a lot of smoke.

Disadvantages:

Complex installation: Requires an extraction duct, which can be expensive and complex in apartments or spaces without exterior access.
Noisier: Due to its power, It can be noisier than carbon ones, although many brands have worked to reduce the noise in these models.

What is the best option for you?

Choosing between a charcoal and suction hood depends mainly on your personal needs and the characteristics of your space. Here we share some recommendations that we have for you, in order to make your decision easier:

I live in a small apartment without access to duct installation: The carbon hood is ideal for you. Its installation is simple, and if you cook occasionally, it is an excellent solution to keep the air fresh without installation complications.
I have a spacious kitchen and I usually cook frequently: In this case, the suction hood can be your best ally. Although it requires a duct, it will give you more powerful air cleaning and will be much more efficient in eliminating smoke and intense odors.
I want a quick, no-work installation: Opt for the carbon hood, as it does not require drilling or ducting and is much easier to install.

Comparison in functionality and maintenance

Here’s a more detailed comparison that can help you see the differences in specific aspects:

Features	Carbon hood	Suction hood
Installation	Easy, no duct required	Requires a duct with exit to the outside
Maintenance	Periodic filter change	Cleaning of internal elements, less spending on filters
Elimination efficiency	Ideal for light odors and occasional cooking	Perfect for smoke and strong odors
Energy consumption	Generally less	It can be higher thanks to the power
Noise level	Relatively quiet	May be noisier due to model

Picture: airtasker.com

Trends in extractor hoods: hybrid models

Many appliance brands have innovated in this field by developing hybrid hoods that combine the best of both systems, allowing installation with or without duct, depending on needs.These hoods are designed to provide maximum flexibility in modern homes, adapting to the mode you prefer and maintaining efficiency in both cases.

Nowadays, you can find hoods with different finishes such as stainless steel, matte black or glass finishes, which makes them part of the kitchen decoration.This trend towards “aesthetic cuisine” has caught the attention of people who value visual harmony in their spaces, adding extra appeal to the purchase.

In addition, brands are betting on energy efficiency and low noise levels, two aspects highly valued by today’s consumers.Models that offer low noise levels (up to 40 dB) and low consumption are capturing the interest of those seeking comfort and sustainability in a single product.

For those who are looking for ease of installation and cook occasionally, we recommend choosing the carbon hood, it is the perfect choice, since its basic functionality is enough to keep the environment fresh in moderately used kitchens. On the other hand, if the kitchen is the heart of your home and you like to cook dishes that generate a lot of smell or smoke, our recommendation would be more towards the suction hood, it will better suit your needs,providing a cleaner and fresher environment.

Keep in mind, the choice also depends on your design and aesthetic preferences, as well as the level of comfort you are looking for. We hope that this guide has helped you clarify your doubts and brings you closer to the ideal hood for your kitchen! Remember,our expert team is ready to advise you and accompany you in the process of installing your new extractor hood.