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The Ultimate Cooker Hood Buying Guide: Expert Advice & FAQs

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Extractor Fans Explained

How to Choose the Best Kitchen Extractor Fan.


Explore our comprehensive Cooker Hood Buying Guide to find the perfect extraction solution for your kitchen. From calculating extraction rates (m³/h) and choosing between ducted or recirculating models to understanding the latest brushless motor technology, we provide the expert advice you need to make an informed decision.

Why Choose Luxair Cooker Hoods?

At Luxair, we don’t just manufacture cooker hoods; we engineer high-performance extraction systems designed to outperform standard market alternatives in both efficiency and longevity. Our commitment to quality is why we are highly rated by thousands of customers on Trustpilot.

Advanced Engineering & Efficiency

Our latest models feature advanced brushless motor technology, delivering powerful extraction while operating significantly quieter than traditional motors. These motors are up to 85% more energy efficient on lower speeds, meaning lower running costs and a more refined, peaceful cooking environment.

Built for Longevity, Not Cost-Cutting

Built with premium materials and precision engineering, every Luxair hood is designed for durability and consistent performance. Unlike many competitors, we prioritise long-term reliability over short-term cost-cutting. This dedication to craftsmanship is reflected in our Exceptional Trustpilot reviews, where customers frequently praise the build quality and aesthetic of our Italian-designed extractors.

Unrivalled UK-Based Support

We stand behind our products with comprehensive warranty support, giving you complete confidence in your purchase. You aren't just buying a product; you're gaining access to our UK-based expert aftercare and genuine parts availability. With an 'Excellent' reputation for customer service, our in-house technical team ensures you’re never left without support when you need it most.


A cooker hood, also commonly referred to as a kitchen extractor hood, is a critical appliance designed to maintain a clean and healthy cooking environment. Installed directly above your hob or cooktop, its primary function is to capture and eliminate airborne grease, combustion products, smoke, heat, and persistent cooking odours.

The Three Key Benefits of High-Quality Extraction:

  • Protect Your Kitchen Cabinetry: Without effective extraction, grease and steam settle on your units and walls, leading to long-term damage and difficult cleaning. A powerful Luxair hood traps these particles before they can settle.
  • Improve Indoor Air Quality: Cooking, especially on gas hobs, can release carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. An extractor hood ensures these pollutants are vented out, keeping your kitchen air fresh and safe.
  • Prevent Mould & Humidity: By removing steam at the source, you significantly reduce the risk of condensation build-up, protecting your home from damp and mould growth.

Whether you choose a ducted-out system or a recirculating model with charcoal filters, a Luxair extractor is a vital investment in your home's hygiene and longevity.

The most popular cooker hood styles include:

Chimney hoods – classic wall-mounted design with a flue.

Island hoods – suspended from the ceiling over a kitchen island.

Canopy hoods – integrated under a cabinet for a seamless look.

Ceiling hoods – flush-fitted into the ceiling for a minimalist style.

Downdraft extractors – rise from the worktop when in use, then hide away.

Induction hobs with built-in extractors – combine cooking and extraction in one appliance.


For compact kitchens, canopy hoods or integrated hoods save space and blend into cabinetry, while induction hobs with built-in extractors are perfect for open layouts without wall space. See also our small ceiling cooker hoods perfect for small kitchens or bathrooms.


Vented hoods are the most effective for moisture removal, while recirculating hoods are the best solution when external ducting is not possible.

Vented (ducted) hoods expel air outside, providing the most effective odour and moisture removal.

Recirculating hoods use filters to clean air and return it to the kitchen, ideal where external ducting isn’t possible.
If you can duct externally, choose vented for maximum performance. When recirculating, always ensure there is a way for the recirculated air to escape the void in which it is installed, this avoids a build-up of
condensation and moisture within this space.

Selecting the correct ducting diameter is the single most important factor in determining how quiet and efficient your extractor will be. At Luxair, we engineer our high-performance motors to move large volumes of air; therefore, the "exhaust pipe" must be wide enough to handle that flow without creating resistance.

The Gold Standard: 150mm (6 Inch) Ducting

For almost all modern kitchen extractors, 150mm rigid ducting is the recommended size.

  • Reduced Noise: A wider pipe allows air to move slowly and smoothly. Narrowing the ducting forces air to travel faster, creating a "whistling" or "roaring" sound.
  • Maximum Airflow (m³/h): Using 150mm ducting ensures your motor can reach its full extraction potential, effectively removing steam and heavy grease.
  • Motor Longevity: When ducting is too small, the motor has to work twice as hard to "push" the air out, which can lead to overheating and premature failure.

When is 125mm (5 Inch) Acceptable?

While 125mm ducting is common in older homes, it should only be used for smaller, entry-level hoods with lower extraction rates. If you are installing a Ceiling Hood or a High-Power Brushless Motor, 125mm will significantly reduce performance and void some high-performance benefits.

Avoid 100mm (4 Inch) Ducting

We strongly advise against using 100mm ducting for any modern kitchen hood. This size is designed for small bathroom fans and is not capable of handling the high-pressure output of a kitchen extractor, leading to extreme noise and almost zero actual extraction.

Luxair Pro Tip: Always match your ducting size to the outlet on the top of your hood. If your hood has a 150mm outlet, never use a reducer to fit it into a smaller hole, as this is the #1 cause of "noisy hood" complaints.


Yes. In fact, induction hobs with integrated extractors are a growing trend, offering direct extraction from the cooking surface. This reduces steam spread and is perfect for open-plan kitchens.

Choosing the Right Size: The Induction vs. Gas Rule

When selecting your kitchen extractor, the type of hob you use is the most critical factor in determining the correct hood width. While standard advice suggests matching the width of your hob, for induction hobs, we strongly advise choosing a cooker hood that is two sizes wider than the hob surface.

Why Size Matters for Induction Hobs:
Unlike gas hobs, which produce an open flame that creates a natural "thermal updraft" to push steam directly into the filters, induction hobs only heat the pan itself. This creates two specific challenges for extraction:

  • Increased Condensation: Because induction doesn't heat the surrounding air, the cooker hood surface remains cold. When hot steam hits these cold filters, it immediately turns into water droplets, leading to drips. A larger hood provides a greater surface area to manage this temperature difference.
  • Wider Steam Dispersal: Without a flame to "force" the air upwards, steam and heavy cooking vapours tend to spread horizontally across the worktop. To combat this, a 60cm induction hob should ideally be paired with an 80cm or 90cm extractor.

By choosing a hood that is two sizes larger, you significantly increase the capture area, ensuring that wayward steam is trapped before it can condense on your cabinetry or spread odours throughout your home.


The Luxair Induction Sizing Guide

To ensure maximum steam capture and reduce condensation, follow our recommended sizing for induction cooking.

  • For a 60cm (Standard) Induction Hob: We recommend an 80cm to 90cm Cooker Hood. This creates a wider "Capture Zone" to trap steam as it disperses horizontally.
  • For a 75cm – 80cm (Large) Induction Hob: We recommend a 100cm to 110cm Cooker Hood. This increases the filter surface area, which is vital for minimizing condensation drips.

  • For a 90cm (Extra Wide) Induction Hob: We recommend a 120cm or larger Cooker Hood. This provides the maximum extraction coverage required for high-vapour cooking across multiple zones.

Expert Tip: If your kitchen layout limits you to a smaller hood, prioritise a model with a Brushless Motor. These motors provide the higher airflow (m³/h) needed to compensate for a narrower capture area.



Wall Mounted Cooker Hoods collection.

Ceiling Cooker Hoods collection.

Island Cooker Hoods collection.

Downdraft collection

Built-In extractor collection

Canopy cooker hood collection




Ceiling hoods are the ideal extraction solution for modern, open-plan kitchens. By flush-fitting into the ceiling, they free up valuable wall space and maintain clear sight lines across your kitchen island. Most Luxair ceiling extractors feature energy-efficient LED lighting and intuitive remote control operation for maximum convenience.

Choosing the Right Motor for Your Ceiling Void:

Slimline Motors: Engineered specifically for restricted spaces, our slimline models are the best choice for creating a flush fit.

Box-Style Motors: If you are building a custom bulkhead or canopy box, our high-pressure box motors provide superior extraction power for higher ceilings to fit between joists.

Browse our Ceiling cooker hood collection

Ceiling Hoods with External (Outside) Motors

For the ultimate in high-performance extraction and acoustic comfort, Luxair offers ceiling hoods with external motors. By moving the motor from the kitchen to an outside wall or roof space, you can achieve powerful extraction without the internal noise of a traditional fan.

Why Choose an External Motor System?

  • Near-Silent Operation: Because the motor is located outside your home, the only sound you hear in the kitchen is the gentle movement of air. This is the perfect solution for open-plan living and entertaining.
  • Powerful Long-Distance Extraction: External motors are designed to pull air through longer ducting runs. If your ceiling joists require a complex route to the outside, an external motor provides the static pressure needed to maintain maximum m³/h airflow.
  • Flexible Installation: These systems allow for a much thinner profile inside the ceiling void, making them ideal for modern homes with restricted "floor-to-ceiling" heights.

Explore our full range of External Motor Ceiling Hoods for a truly silent kitchen experience.


An Island Cooker Hood is a specialised extractor designed to be suspended directly from the ceiling, positioned over a kitchen island or a freestanding cooking station. Unlike wall-mounted models that rely on a vertical surface for support, island hoods are finished on all sides, serving as a stunning architectural focal point in modern, open-plan kitchens.

Key Features of Island Extraction:

  • 360° Capture Zone: Because they sit in the center of the room, Luxair island hoods are engineered with a larger perimeter to capture steam and odours from every angle, preventing cooking vapours from drifting into your living area.
  • Ambient Feature Lighting: Island hoods often act as a primary light source for your prep area. Our models include high-output, dimmable LED task lighting to provide both functionality and a premium kitchen atmosphere.
  • High Extraction Power: Open-plan spaces require moving larger volumes of air. Our island extractors utilise Brushless Motor technology to ensure powerful performance without disrupting your home's peace and quiet.

Installation Considerations:

When planning your island extractor installation, ensure your ceiling is structurally capable of supporting the unit's weight. For the best aesthetic and performance, we recommend ducting through the ceiling void using 150mm rigid ducting to maintain a "clean" look and maximum airflow.

Browse our designer collection of Island Cooker Hoods to find the center-piece for your new kitchen.

A Canopy Cooker Hood is the ultimate choice for a minimalist kitchen design. Unlike bulky wall-mounted models, a canopy extractor is designed for seamless integration, fitting discreetly into the underside of a kitchen wall cabinet or a custom-built decorative chimney breast.

Why Choose a Canopy Extractor?

  • Invisible Power: Once installed, the canopy hood is almost invisible, preserving your kitchen’s clean lines and cabinetry aesthetics without sacrificing performance.
  • Versatile Installation: These models are perfect for traditional "mantel-style" kitchens or modern, handleless cabinetry where a hidden extraction solution is required.
  • Space-Saving Design: Because it occupies the base of the cupboard, you can often still utilize the upper portion of the cabinet for storage (depending on your ducting route).

Expert Tip: Choosing Between Standard & High-Power Canopy Hoods

When selecting your cabinet-mounted hood, consider the depth of your cupboards. At Luxair, our canopy models feature high-performance motors and LED lighting to ensure your cooking surface is perfectly illuminated. For induction hobs, we recommend a canopy hood with a Brushless Motor to handle the increased steam dispersal.

Browse our full collection of Canopy Cooker Hoods to find the perfect fit for your cabinetry.

For most hoods:

Electric/induction hobs: 65–75 cm above the hob.

Gas hobs: 75–80 cm above the hob.
Always follow Luxair's guidance for safety and efficiency.

Grease filters (aluminium or stainless steel) – trap cooking grease.

Carbon filters – used in recirculating hoods to remove odours.
Grease filters are washable; carbon filters need replacing periodically.


To keep your kitchen air clean, a cooker hood should ideally be able to replace the air in the room 10 to 12 times per hour. If you have an open-plan living area, we recommend aiming for the higher end of that scale to ensure cooking odours don't settle on your soft furnishings.

The Simple 3-Step Formula:

  1. Measure your kitchen: Find the Length, Width, and Height of the room in metres.
  2. Calculate the Volume: Multiply those three numbers together (L x W x H).
  3. Find the Extraction Rate: Multiply the Volume by 10 (for standard kitchens) or 12 (for open-plan spaces).

Example Calculation:

  • A kitchen that is 4m long, 3m wide, and 2.5m high has a volume of 30m³.
  • 30m³ x 12 air changes = 360 m³/h.
  • In this case, you would look for a Luxair hood with a minimum extraction rate of 360 m³/h.

Why "Static Pressure" is Just as Important

While the m³/h (airflow) tells you how much air the motor can move, Static Pressure tells you how well it can push that air through the ducting. If you have a long ducting run with several bends, you need a high-pressure motor (like our Brushless series) to maintain that extraction rate. Without high static pressure, the air will simply "bounce" back, increasing noise and reducing efficiency.


The noise level of a cooker hood depends on three main factors: motor technology, the quality of your ducting, and whether you are venting outside or recirculating. While all extractors make some sound, modern engineering has made quiet kitchen extraction a reality for open-plan homes.

Why Noise Varies Between Models:

Extraction Mode: Vented (ducted) hoods are naturally quieter than recirculating models because they don't have the air resistance caused by charcoal filters.

Motor Type: For a truly peaceful kitchen, look for models under 60dB or choose a hood with a Brushless Motor. These advanced motors eliminate mechanical friction, making them up to 50% quieter and 85% more energy efficient than traditional motors.

Ducting Quality: Using 150mm rigid ducting significantly reduces "wind noise" compared to smaller or flexible foil pipes.

When shopping for a quiet cooker hood, the decibel (dB) rating is your most important metric. Many customers worry about buying a "tractor" that makes it impossible to hold a conversation while cooking. At Luxair, we prioritise acoustic comfort alongside extraction power.

Decibel (dB) Comparisons for Kitchen Extractors:
To help you choose the right kitchen fan for your home, here is how different decibel levels sound in a real-world environment:

  • 40dB – 50dB (Whisper Quiet): Comparable to a library or a quiet background conversation. Our premium brushless motor models often operate in this range on lower speeds.
  • 55dB – 65dB (Standard): The volume of a normal conversation or a modern dishwasher. This is the ideal range for high-performance extraction that doesn't overwhelm the room.
  • 70dB+ (Loud): Comparable to a vacuum cleaner or heavy traffic. Many entry-level extractors reach this level on "Boost" mode, making it difficult to hear music or guests.

The Luxair Advantage: Brushless Motor Technology
Standard cooker hood motors use brushes that create friction, heat, and mechanical noise. Luxair’s advanced Brushless Motors eliminate this friction. The result? A significantly quieter operation that is up to 85% more energy efficient, providing powerful extraction without the unwanted roar.

The efficiency of your cooker hood is only as good as the ducting you connect it to. Many installations fail to reach their full potential because of the type of ducting used. For the best airflow and noise reduction, the choice between rigid and flexible materials is critical.

Why We Recommend Rigid Smooth-Walled Ducting

Rigid plastic ducting is the gold standard for high-performance extraction. Because the interior walls are perfectly smooth, the air can flow freely without hitting any obstacles.

  • 30% Better Airflow: Unlike corrugated "concertina" style ducting, rigid pipes do not create air turbulence.
  • Quieter Operation: Turbulence is a major cause of "wind noise." Smooth walls keep the decibel levels (dB) at their lowest.
  • Energy Efficient: Your motor doesn't have to work as hard to push air through a smooth pipe, extending the life of your appliance.

The Problem with Flexible Foil & Corrugated Ducting

While flexible foil ducting is often cheaper and easier to install around tight corners, it is a "performance killer" for modern kitchen extractors.

  • The "Accordion" Effect: Every ridge in a flexible pipe creates a tiny pocket of turbulence. This acts like a brake on the air, significantly reducing your actual m³/h extraction rate.
  • Increased Noise: That same turbulence creates a vibrating "roar" that can make even a silent brushless motor sound loud.
  • Condensation Traps: The ridges in flexible ducting can trap grease and moisture, leading to hygiene issues over time.

The Luxair Expert Rule: Always use 150mm (6 inch) rigid ducting where possible. If you must use flexible ducting for a difficult bend, keep the run as short as possible and ensure it is pulled taught to minimize ridges.

To ensure your Luxair cooker hood continues to operate quietly and efficiently, regular maintenance is essential. A clogged filter doesn't just reduce airflow; it puts unnecessary strain on the motor and increases noise levels.

1. Metal Grease Filters (The First Line of Defence)

Most Luxair hoods come with high-quality aluminium or stainless steel grease filters. These are designed to trap airborne grease before it reaches the motor.

  • How often to clean: Every 2–4 weeks, depending on how often you cook.
  • The Best Method: Most of our metal filters are dishwasher safe. Simply pop them in on a standard cycle (avoid high heat) or soak them in warm soapy water.
  • Top Tip: Never operate your hood without the grease filters, as this allows grease to coat the internal motor, which can lead to a fire hazard.

2. Charcoal (Carbon) Filters (For Recirculating Hoods Only)

If your hood is not ducted to the outside, you will be using charcoal filters to neutralise odours.

  • When to replace: Every 3 months.
  • Signs it’s time to change: If cooking smells are lingering in the kitchen longer than usual, the carbon is likely "saturated" and can no longer absorb odours.
  • Note: Standard charcoal filters cannot be washed. Once they are full, they must be replaced with genuine Luxair spares to maintain the warranty.

3. Cleaning the Exterior Finish

Whether your hood is Brushed Stainless Steel, Matt Black, or White, keeping it clean prevents "pitting" and staining.

  • Stainless Steel: Use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a microfibre cloth with a drop of olive oil or baby oil to maintain that shine.
  • Painted/Matt Finishes: Use only a soft damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these will scratch the premium finish.