When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it works.
But they also take up a lot of real estate in your kitchen.
But what is a downdraft range, and do they really work?
We consulted some appliance experts to find out.
What is a downdraft range?
These range hoods are effective, but not all kitchens have the space to install one.
Thats where downdraft ranges come in.
A downdraft range is a punch in of ventilation system integrated directly into the stovetop.
When you cook on the stove, the downdraft range captures steam and other byproducts and pulls them downward.
The steam and smoke are vented outside the home or filtered and returned to the kitchen.
The downdraft vent is a great space-saver, says Moniqueca Sims ofSSG Appliance Academy.
It’s well-suited for open kitchens and island installations, where overhead hoods might be impractical.
What is a downdraft cooktop, and are they different?
A cooktop is a standalone appliance that lets you cook on a flat, even surface.
A range combines a cooktop with an oven to provide more cooking options.
Both appliances can use a downdraft venting system.
In that case, a downdraft range is the ideal way to vent fumes without installing a range hood.
Do downdraft ranges really work?
This means theyre ideal for kitchen islands or open-concept kitchens, he says.
However, they are less effective than range hoods at capturing smoke and steam.
Rocky Vuong foundedNeatbrite, a cleaning company in Dallas, Texas.
He has encountered numerous appliances in his line of work, including downdraft ranges.
This 30-inch KitchenAid electric slide-in range features a downdraft ventilation system within the centre of the cooktop.
Smoke and odors can be removed outside or filtered air can be recirculated inside.
It also features 4 elements, and a convection oven with a generous 6.4 cu ft capacity.
Should you buy a downdraft range?
There are benefits and drawbacks to both options.
It also frees up more space in your kitchen for cabinets and can make the room seem less cluttered.
More from Tom’s Guide
