The Complete Guide to Cooker Hoods: Styles and Benefits
When designing or upgrading your kitchen, one of the most important appliances to consider is the cooker hood. While often overlooked, a cooker hood plays a vital role in keeping your kitchen clean, fresh, and free from lingering odours. From removing grease and smoke to adding a stylish finish, choosing the right model can transform your cooking space.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of cooker hoods, their benefits, and how to choose the best option for your kitchen.
What Is a Cooker Hood and Why Do You Need One?
A cooker hood, also known as a kitchen extractor fan, is an appliance fitted above your hob or stove to extract smoke, steam, and cooking smells. By filtering or venting the air, cooker hoods help:
Improve air quality by removing odours and fumes.
Reduce grease build-up on walls, cabinets, and surfaces.
Keep the kitchen more comfortable while cooking.
Add modern style and lighting to your cooking area.
Some Of Our Best Cooker Hoods
ELICA 60cm Extractor Missy60BLK
Original price was: R2,010.00.R1,999.00Current price is: R1,999.00.
Types of Cooker Hoods
Choosing the right cooker hood depends on your kitchen layout and style. Here are the most popular options:
Chimney Hoods – Wall-mounted with a chimney design. They’re powerful, stylish, and ideal for larger kitchens.
Island Hoods – Designed for kitchen islands, these make a bold statement and provide excellent extraction.
Integrated/Canopy Hoods – Discreetly built into kitchen cabinets for a seamless look.
Visor Hoods – Compact, practical, and suitable for small kitchens with limited space.
Downdraft Extractors – Sleek, modern, and hidden in the worktop when not in use. Perfect for contemporary designs.
Key Features to Look For in a Cooker Hood
When shopping for a cooker hood, consider these essential features:
Extraction rate – Determines how quickly air is filtered.
Noise level – Quieter models make cooking more enjoyable.
Size – The hood should match the width of your hob for efficiency.
Lighting – Built-in LED or halogen lights improve visibility.
Energy efficiency – Look for energy-saving models to reduce running costs.
Filters – Aluminium filters trap grease; carbon filters are used in recirculating hoods.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
To keep your cooker hood running efficiently:
Clean grease filters every 1–2 months.
Replace carbon filters (for recirculation hoods) every 3–6 months.
Wipe the hood exterior regularly to prevent grease build-up.
Check ducting (if extraction type) to ensure smooth airflow.
A cooker hood is more than just an accessory — it’s a functional, stylish, and essential appliance for every kitchen. Whether you prefer a sleek integrated model or a bold island hood, the right choice will keep your kitchen fresh, clean, and enjoyable to cook in.
Explore Metro Lifestyle’s wide range of cooker hoods to find the perfect match for your kitchen design and cooking needs.