Cooktop Ventilation

Ventilation is a key consideration when purchasing a cooktop. Vents can be a microwave/hood combination, but, if you plan to install your cooktop in an island or peninsula, look for a model with a built-in ventilation system or downdraft system that doesn't require an overhead hood.

There are two primary types of ventilation: external and recirculating. You can also choose from different fan types, including rotary fans, which feature blades, or centrifugal fans, which are shaped like a barrel or wheel. In general, centrifugal fans are more powerful and better suited for longer ducts.

The amount of air vented by fans is measured in cubic feet per minute, or CFM. Units with higher CFM rates move more air; a minimum of 40 CFM for every linear foot of range is recommended. So, if you have an electric 36" cooktop, you'll need a ventilation system with at least 120 CFM. For gas cooktops, a good estimate is to have 1 CFM for every 100 Btus of power.

To learn more about the importance of kitchen ventilation and the options available, see our Ventilation Buying Guide.