How to Ventilate a Range Hood

Every kitchen should have a range hood. They are good for pulling smoke and fumes out of the kitchen and reduce grease messes. When you have a gas range, however, it is necessary to have an exhaust range hood to pull any fumes from the living space.  If you have a range hood that requires external ventilation then follow the instructions below in order to properly create effective ducting and ventilation for your range hood.

Additional Requirements

• Vent outlet
• 110 volt 15 amp grounded electrical outlet

Difficulty Level

• Intermediate to advanced

Step 1:  Choosing a Ventilation Option

There are two options available for venting your range hood. You can vent through the roof or through the wall. It is important that you have enough vent duct pipe to get the exhaust all the way out of the house. Do not vent into the attic. This is a fire hazard.  In the range hood there will be both options available too.  

Step 2:  Preparing and Installing the Vent Duct

Cover the vent hole in the range hood that you will not be using and using the pencil mark the location on the wall or roof where your range hood will ventilate through the ductwork. Using the drill. mark some guide holes around the perimeter of the marking for the duct. With the saw cut from guide holes until the hole is completely out. If you cut the hole into the attic then go into the attic and install the vent duct and flex tubing, running it to where you wish to exhaust to the outside.  Mark the spot on the roof or attic wall and cut it out the same way you cut the hole in the kitchen wall or ceiling, using the drill for guides and then a saw to cut the hole out. If you have stucco or brick external walls you may choose to use a masonry drill bit to create your guide holes, and you will need a masonry saw blade to cut through the brick or stucco siding. Insert the vent duct through the hole. Go to the exit hole and install the vent cover using wood screws or masonry anchors to secure the cover, ensuring that dirt, leaves, or rain do not come through.

Step 3:  Install the Vent Hood

Connect the vent hood to the ceiling or bottom of upper cabinets using screws that will ensure a good hold. Use a helper or scrap wood to hold the vent hood in place to keep it from moving while you try to attach it. Using a clamp or sheet rock style screw to ensure there is a good grip. Align the vent duct to the exit hole in the hood.  Assemble the vent hood exhaust fan and grease filter. Turn on the vent fan and verify that there are no leaks in the attic ducting and make sure that you can feel the exhaust on the exit side of the ducts.