Why Kitchen Ventilation Matters (More Than You Think)

Cooking releases more than smells. Each time you turn on a burner, you’re producing:

• Moisture: from boiling water or simmering sauces.

• Grease Particles: especially during frying.

• Combustion Gases: like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.

• Fine Particulate Matter: that can linger and affect respiratory health.

Without proper ventilation, these particles stay in your home. Over time, that means stained cabinets, poor air quality, and a stressed HVAC system trying to compensate for the shifting humidity and temperature levels.

That’s where vent hoods in HVAC kitchens come in—acting as your first line of defense.

How Range Hoods Impact Your HVAC System

Most homeowners don’t realize that range hoods do more than pull out smoke. They directly affect the air pressure balance in your home. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Exhaust Air Out, Pull Air In

When a vent hood pushes air outside, it has to be replaced somehow. That’s called make-up air. If there’s no fresh air coming in, your system may start pulling air from unwanted sources—like attics or crawlspaces.

2. Heating & Cooling Load

A powerful hood removes warm, moist air in winter and cool air in summer—forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain your preferred indoor temperature.

3. Negative Pressure Problems

A too-powerful vent hood without make-up air can create negative pressure, leading to:

• Backdrafting of combustion appliances (e.g., gas water heaters).

• Drafts and cold spots.

• Inefficient HVAC performance.

So if your home feels drafty after cooking, your hood might be overpowering your HVAC balance.

How to Choose the Right Vent Hood (Without Guesswork)

Choosing a vent hood isn’t just about style—it’s a calculation. Here’s what to consider:

🔧 1. Sizing Your Vent Hood Properly

Width:
Your vent hood should be as wide—or slightly wider—than your cooktop.

• Standard cooktops (30”): Choose at least a 30” hood.

• Pro-style ranges (36”+): Go wider, up to 42” or more.

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute):
This is how much air your hood moves. More isn’t always better.

• Electric cooktops: 100 CFM for every 10” of width.

• Gas ranges: 100 CFM for every 10,000 BTUs.

Example: A 36″ gas cooktop with 50,000 BTUs needs around 500 CFM.

🏠 2. Consider Ducted vs. Ductless

• Ducted hoods: Vent air outdoors. Best for air quality.

• Ductless (recirculating) hoods: Filter and return air. Easier install, but less effective.

If possible, always go ducted.

🌬️ 3. Plan for Make-Up Air

In Canada, most building codes require a make-up air system for hoods over 300 CFM. These systems bring in fresh, tempered air to replace what the hood removes—keeping your HVAC system balanced.

Without it? Negative pressure can mess with your indoor comfort and safety.

Pro Tips for Seamless HVAC & Kitchen Harmony

To keep your system running smoothly, try these:

• Use your range hood every time you cook.

• Clean grease filters monthly—clogged filters restrict airflow.

• Have a pro install make-up air for hoods over 300 CFM.

• Don’t oversize your hood. Bigger isn’t always better.

• Seal ductwork properly to prevent heat loss and inefficiency.

Conclusion: The Unsung Hero of Indoor Comfort

In the world of energy-efficient homes—especially in the chilly stretches of Canada—we often talk about geothermal heating, insulation, and smart thermostats. But none of that matters if your kitchen is choking with steam, smoke, and imbalance.

A well-sized, properly installed vent hood protects your air, your health, and your HVAC system—making it one of the most underrated investments in home comfort.

So yes, geothermal heating may be worth it—but only if your kitchen ventilation isn’t working against it.

FAQ: Vent Hood HVAC Kitchens

1. What size vent hood do I need for a 30-inch range?
A 30-inch vent hood is ideal, but if you do heavy cooking, a slightly wider one (36”) can offer better coverage.

2. How does a vent hood affect HVAC systems?
It impacts air pressure, humidity, and temperature—forcing HVAC systems to adjust more often if not balanced with make-up air.

3. Do I need make-up air for my range hood in Canada?
Yes, most provincial building codes require it for hoods over 300 CFM.

4. Can I use a ductless hood instead?
You can, but ducted hoods are more effective at removing contaminants, especially in heavy-use kitchens.

5. How often should I clean my range hood filters?
At least once a month, or more often if you cook frequently.

6. What happens if my range hood is too powerful?
It can create negative pressure, leading to HVAC inefficiency and backdrafting of combustion appliances.

7. Is ventilation important even with an electric stove?
Absolutely! Electric cooking still releases moisture, grease, and particulates.

8. Can poor kitchen ventilation affect health?
Yes—long-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can trigger asthma, allergies, and respiratory issues.

9. What’s the quietest type of range hood?
Look for hoods with a remote inline blower mounted in the attic. They reduce kitchen noise significantly.

10. Should I run the vent hood after cooking?
Yes, let it run for about 10–15 minutes after cooking to clear lingering particulates and moisture.