How To Install Under Cabinet Ductless Range Hood

The air around the kitchen is usually dense with strong odors when preparing meals. While some people are somehow comfortable with it, many individuals find it annoying. Installing a range hood thus becomes an excellent option to expel foul odors and refresh the air.

Range hoods come in two types; ductless and ducted range hoods. Ducted range hoods need a duct system, but ductless ones don’t. If your house lacks a duct system, here’s how to install under cabinet ductless range hood to get your kitchen’s air cleaner.

Tools you need for installing an under cabinet ductless range hood

• A car jack or two cabinet jacks

• Tape measure

• A drill and drilling bits

• Pencil

• Key saw or reciprocating saw.

• Circuit testes·

• Set of screwdrivers

• Wire stripper

Installing under cabinet ductless range hood

Now that you have the complete toolset installing the appliance is simple. Remember that installation can be challenging for a single person. So, getting help will make it easier. If you can do it alone, then go ahead and install the range hood using these steps.

Step By Step Process on How To Install Under Cabinet Ductless Range Hood

Step 1: See if the range hood works

Before starting the installation:

• Ensure that the under cabinet ductless range hood works.
• If it’s new, take it out of its box and plug it in a power supply.
• Check if the fan and the blower are functional or if the lights are working.

Since these devices come with warranties, you can return them to the stores if they are defective. Once you feel that it’s working, remove any packaging material. They may include clear tapes and nylon coverings.

Early tests point out defects that could become problematic in the future. Besides, it prevents the installation of faulty range hoods in your kitchen. From here, go ahead and fix the range hood under your kitchen cabinet.

Step 2: Prepare for the installation

Since the ductless range hood requires no exterior duct attachments, it should be easy to install. The degree of complexity in an installation depends on the model, and some brands may need you to insert covers over vent holes.

Be sure also to cover the range with a firm board to prevent debris or nuts and screws from falling in. The hardboard will also help support the jack when dry-fitting it. Next, figure out the wall’s center by measuring with duct tape, and be sure to mark it right above the range.

After determining the center, use the level to draw a vertical line from the ceiling towards the range. This line ensures accuracy and omits room for error for your hood range to fit without errors.

Step 3: Detach the filters for easy installation

For vented range hoods, put the rubber gasket over the lips of the hood’s opening before fitting the adapter. Insert the screw and fasten them using the screwdriver. Tighten the screws and ensure that they secure the adapter is firm on the range hood.

To make the work easier and lifting lighter, remove the filters already attached by the manufacturer. Begin by pulling the top panel before screwing out the other piece that encloses the charcoal filters. If possible, remove them too by tilting movements to disengage them.

Step 4: Dry fit the range hood

Once you’ve got the measurements right, lift the ductless range hood and place it on the hardboard covering the range. Some ductless range hoods can be heavy to lift and need extra hands. So, get someone to help you lift the appliance to the top of the range.

Using the jack, prop up the range hood to dry-fit it beneath the cabinet. If you don’t have a jack, use a friend to help you lift it. Ductless range hoods can be heavy for a single person and may slip when marking screw points. Damages resulting from falls can be severe, requiring you to spend more money on unplanned repairs.

Place another hardboard on the jacks for a more extensive surface area to further safeguard the range hood. Make sure the board is firm and doesn’t shake to destabilize the range hood. Then, lift the range hood and put it in position to dry fit it.

Some range hoods come with a marking paper template, and dry fitting may not be necessary.

Step 5: Mark screw holes

After dry fitting, the ductless range hood, use the Pencil to mark the screw holes. A small mark is enough to show you where to drill the holes for driving in the screws. However, for more accuracy, tighten the grip by increasing the jacks’ pressure so that the range hood holds tight.

Once you’ve got the screw-hole markings, loosen the jacks and lift the ductless range hood down. Again, involve a friend if it’s hard to do it by yourself.

Step 6: Drill screw holes and install mount brackets

Drill pilot holes on the points you marked using the drill to simplify the screwing. If your under-the-cabinet range hood has a vent opening, make a 4 to an 8-inch hole at the center of the bottom cabinet.

If your range hood requires anchors to hold against the bottom of the cabinet, be sure to install the brackets. Either, if your range hood has plastic anchors, insert them in the pilot holes. Ensure that they are firm and can hold the weight of the device.

Prop up the range hood again using the jacks, as you did when dry fitting it. Position it on to align with the pilot screw and keep it ready for fastening. For more accuracy, increase the pressure on the jacks for the range hood to grip the bottom of the cabinet firmly. Tighter grips align the pilot screw holes with those of the range hoods.

Step 7: Pull the wiring through the pilot hole

Once you’ve positioned the range hood at the bottom of the cabinet, pull the cord through a hole that you made earlier. If you haven’t made it yet, use the hole saw or drill to make a 2-inch hole that the wire fits in. Extend the entire length of the cord not to get stuck between the cabinet’s bottom surface and the appliance.

Step 8: Hold the range hood by fastening it

If you aren’t using a jack, ask a friend to hold the range hood in place as you fasten it on the cabinet’s bottom. But, it’s recommendable that you use jacks since the person helping you might not hold the range hood in place. Besides, they may move about, thus misaligning the range hood’s screw holes and the cabinet’s pilot holes.

If your range hood doesn’t need screwing against the cabinet, it will come with anchors or brackets from the manufacturer to grip it in place. Brackets are easier to use since they only need you to slide the range hood in place once you’ve fastened them on the cabinet.

Use the screwdriver to drive in screws through the pilot holes. Fasten them so that they hold the range hood holds against the cabinet. Be sure to use all screws to secure the appliance.

Step 9: Connect the wires

If you prefer to connect your range hood to a fixed power supply permanently, you should involve a professional electrical technician. It would be safer than doing it yourself since it may expose you to the damaging risks of electrical shocks. A technician understands how to install under cabinet ductless range hood, especially on the electricals. But, if you’re confident that you can pull it by yourself, go ahead and do it.

Fixing the wires requires stripping before connecting them to the power supply. Use the wire stripper to expose a few inches of the wires before making J-shaped curves. You’ll use these curves to hook the wires and attach them to the sockets in the electric box. After looping the wires, be sure to tighten the screws to prevent loose ends.

To connect the wires, attach matching wire colors to prevent short-circuiting in the electric box. Poor connections can also damage the appliance or even cause sparks that can escalate to fires. Also, be sure to turn off the main switch when looping the wires to prevent shocks.

Step 10: Install the charcoal and primary filters

Once you’re done installing the range hood, install the filters you disengaged while prepping for the entire process. Start by putting the charcoal filters in place. Most hood rangers don’t need to fasten them with screws, which provides an easy installation interface. If your range hood has this design, installing the charcoal filter should be easy.

These filters usually have an activated layer of charcoal that traps the grease and intense food aromas that purify the air. But, you must replace them after every six months since they aren’t washable. For vented ductless range hoods, fit the chimney in place and fasten it with tape to prevent leakages.

Finally, fit the primary filter that covers the range hood at the bottom. You may have to screw it to secure it on the appliance.

Once you’re done with the installation, be sure to switch the main power supply back on. Power the appliance on and see it works as you would want. If it does, your installation is successful!

Things to Consider In Installing an Under Cabinet Ductless Range Hood

Now that you’re familiar with how to install under cabinet ductless range hood, here are things to consider before the installation.

Size

You should consider your kitchen’s size and layout before choosing a range hood. Some range hoods may be too big to fit under your cabinets, while others can be too small for large kitchen spaces. Although manufactures standardize the sizes, some may be way too small for optimal air purification.

Usually, standard range hoods measure 30 inches in width, ideal for installation in most traditional kitchens. Besides, ideal size range hoods are comfortable to work under and don’t produce excessive fan noise.

Your kitchen’s layout also determines the size of the range hood you’ll install. For instance, island kitchen layouts need suspendable designs, which are smaller. Wall-mounted models are usually bigger.

Placement distance

The placement distance also determines the range hood’s suction power. An ideal height should range between 24 to 30 inches from the range or stove. This distance allows for steam, heat, and intense aromas to suck through the filter. Placing the appliance high up reduces its efficiency, and you’re likely to remain stuck with partially purified air.

Power supply

Before installing your range hood, ensure that you have a proper power supply in place. Get a technician to help you fix a power socket above the appliance in a separate circuit. Learn that the circuit matches the exact hood range’s power specifications.

Maintaining Installed Under the Cabinet Range Hoods

You don’t have to abandon your range hood such that it becomes grimy and stained. That won’t look good for your kitchen. You must clean it so that it doesn’t develop problems that reduce its functionality. Here are ways to maintain your range hood.

Clean the air filter and replace charcoal filters

Most under cabinet range hoods have activated charcoal filters to absorb kitchen smells when cooking. These filters need replacement every six months for their better functioning. Besides, greasy air filter meshes are disgusting to work under; so, cleaning them is ideal.

Clean the fan

Since the fan sucks and pumps greasy air, it’s an ideal component in the purification process. It means that it gets stained and suffers the same fate as the filters. Grease and grime can get in the way of rotating axles, reducing their efficiency. Besides, dirt accumulating on the blades makes it heavy and less functional.

Clean the range hood

While cleaning the interior is good, wiping and scrubbing the exterior of the range hood is also good. Try using a vinegar-soaked fine fabric to wipe off grease and dirt from the surface. Cleaning the range hood’s outside maintains its glitter and keeps the appliance in good working condition.

Keep your senses alert

Be mindful of odd sounds coming from your range hood. If you notice loud fan sounds, take it as a sign of faultiness and intervene immediately. Since under the cabinet range hoods are not usually loud, sound changes should ring the bells for you.

If you feel that the range hood has less impact on your kitchen’s air quality, something could be wrong. If you notice stains around the kitchen walls, your appliance may be faulty and not work as you want. Therefore, get a qualified and experienced technician to help you diagnose the problem and fix it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ductless range hoods effective?

Ductless under cabinet range hoods are effective in improving your kitchen’s air quality. They use activated charcoal filters to clean grease air and re-channel it back when fresh and breathable. Some people find ducted hood ranges more effective since they expel greasy air rather than re-use it. To mention it, it all depends on your preferences, budget, and purpose.

Can I wall mount an under cabinet range hood?

You can mount an under the cabinet ductless hood range, but it depends on their style and strength. Note that variation in mounting doesn’t change how ductless range hoods work since it’s all about fixing them in an ideal position. If you prefer mounting it on walls, position them 24-30 inches from your stove or range.

Should a range hood be wider than the range?

Get a range hood that is wider than the range for the largest suction surface area. Wider range hoods don’t allow greasy air to escape since they have a higher suction power.

What should I check for in a ductless range hood?

Before buying a ductless hood range, ensure that it fits in your kitchen by checking its size. Besides, check the filters, power requirements, and the hood blower noise and gauge if it works.

Do I need a range hood for a gas stove?

Range hoods help clean your kitchen’s air, thus reduces impurities that impede breathing. If you take long hours inside the kitchen, you might find range hoods helpful. But, you can still cook with your gas stove without a hood range, but keep your windows open for proper aeration.

How much does it cost to install a kitchen hood?

Installing kitchen hoods can be costly, but it’s worth it in the long run. An average homeowner spends up to $700, covering the price and cost of installation. The price is higher for ducted range hoods and can be somewhere between $500 and $1000.

The Bottom line

There are many procedures on how to install under cabinet ductless range hood. Some people prefer starting by putting the electrical system in place. Others go straight to dry fitting and secure them before doing the electricals. Either way, it all results in something tangible – a perfectly installed hood range.

If installing an under cabinet range hood is challenging by yourself then, consult a qualified technician. They’ll deal with electrical installations and help put them in place.

Don’t expose yourself to risky electrical shocks that can be dangerous. We hope this step-by-step guide helps you install your under cabinet ductless range hood and get your kitchen’s air cleaned in no time.