Why Proper Kitchen Ventilation is a Big Deal

Cooking is more than an art—it’s a science of smoke, grease, and airborne particles. When you sauté, fry, or boil, the air fills with moisture, heat, and invisible particles. If your kitchen lacks proper ventilation, you’re inviting:

• Lingering odors

• Mold from moisture buildup

• Greasy film on cabinets

• Poor indoor air quality

Range hoods act as the first line of defense. But here’s where most people trip up: they assume any range hood will do. The truth? An improperly sized or installed hood can disrupt your home’s HVAC balance, costing you more in heating, cooling, and comfort.

The Surprising HVAC Connection

Let’s unravel this a bit.

Your HVAC system is designed to keep your home comfortable—balancing airflow, temperature, and air exchange. But a powerful range hood, especially in modern kitchens, can pull air out of the house faster than it’s replaced. This causes negative pressure.

What does negative pressure do?

• Backdrafting: Instead of venting smoke out, combustion appliances (like gas furnaces or water heaters) can pull dangerous fumes in.

• Reduced HVAC Efficiency: Your system struggles to maintain air balance, leading to inconsistent temperatures.

• Drafts and Dust: Gaps in windows or doors might suck in cold air and allergens.

A smart HVAC contractor doesn’t just install a vent—they engineer airflow. That’s why choosing the right pro in Toronto is essential.

How to Size a Kitchen Range Hood (the Right Way)

Here’s where the numbers come in, but don’t worry—we’ll keep it simple.

📏 Sizing by Cooktop Type

So, if you have a 30-inch (2.5 ft) gas cooktop:
2.5 x 150 = 375 CFM minimum

📐 Ventilation Length & Duct Size

• Use smooth metal ducts (not flexible or plastic).

• Keep duct runs as short and straight as possible.

• A 400–600 CFM hood needs at least a 6-inch diameter duct.

🌬️ Make-Up Air Systems

If your hood is over 400 CFM (which is common in many homes), building codes in Ontario require a make-up air system. This device introduces fresh air into your home to balance out the air pulled by the vent hood. It keeps your HVAC system from being overwhelmed.

5 Tips for Hiring the Right HVAC Contractor in Toronto

1. Ask About Kitchen Experience

Not all HVAC contractors are kitchen-savvy. Ask if they’ve installed vent hood HVAC systems before and if they understand make-up air code requirements.

2. Verify Licensing & Insurance

In Ontario, contractors should hold a valid TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) certification. Make sure they carry liability insurance too.

3. Check Reviews & References

Look beyond star ratings. Scan reviews for comments about kitchen ventilation, air balance, and professionalism. Ask for references from recent kitchen projects.

4. Get a Custom Assessment

A good HVAC contractor will come to your home, measure airflow, and inspect your current setup. If they suggest a one-size-fits-all solution, keep looking.

5. Request a Written Quote

Professional contractors provide clear, itemized quotes. This includes equipment specs, ducting changes, installation labor, and any required permits.

Red Flags to Watch For

• They suggest an oversized hood “just to be safe”

• No mention of make-up air or CFM requirements

• They try to vent through soft ducting or long, twisty runs

• No home visit before quoting

Bringing It All Together

Proper kitchen ventilation is more than just flipping a switch—it’s a balancing act between your cooking needs and your home’s HVAC system. Whether you’re doing a full kitchen renovation or just replacing a range hood, understanding how vent hood HVAC kitchens interact will save you money and headaches.

The best HVAC contractors in Toronto aren’t just technical pros—they’re airflow artists who design systems that breathe well and live well.

FAQs About Vent Hoods and HVAC in Kitchens

1. Do all range hoods need make-up air?

Only those rated over 400 CFM typically require make-up air, according to Ontario Building Code. But every home is different—your HVAC pro should evaluate.

2. Can I install a range hood myself?

Technically yes, but you risk creating air pressure issues or violating building code. It’s best handled by a certified HVAC contractor.

3. How loud should my range hood be?

Look for hoods rated below 6 sones for a quiet experience. Better models offer variable speeds for quieter cooking.

4. What’s the best duct material for venting?

Use rigid, smooth-walled metal ducts. Avoid flexible or plastic ducts, which reduce airflow and are not code-compliant.

5. Can a range hood affect my furnace or fireplace?

Absolutely. A powerful hood can backdraft combustion appliances, pulling dangerous gases like carbon monoxide into your home.

6. What’s the best CFM for a small kitchen?

Smaller kitchens may only need 250–400 CFM, especially with electric cooktops. It depends on layout, usage, and hood height.

7. How often should I clean my range hood filter?

Clean mesh filters monthly, and replace charcoal filters every 3–6 months if you use a recirculating model.