Planning a kitchen renovation involves a thousand decisions, but few are as technical—or as crucial—as ventilation. You might fall in love with a sleek wall-mount design, only to realize your apartment doesn't have an external duct vent. This is where the magic of a convertible range hood comes in.
But what exactly is it, and is it efficient enough for serious cooking? As experts in kitchen air quality, we are here to demystify this versatile appliance.
In this guide, we will explore how convertible hoods work, how to maintain them (especially in ductless mode), and why they might be the perfect solution for your home.
One appliance, two ways to vent.
The Core Definition: What is a Convertible Range Hood?
A convertible range hood is a ventilation unit designed with dual functionality. It gives you the flexibility to install it in one of two ways:
- Ducted (Vented) Mode: Connected to ductwork that vents stale air completely outside your home.
- Ductless (Recirculating) Mode: Installed without external vents, using charcoal filters to scrub the air before releasing it back into the kitchen.
Essentially, buying a convertible model future-proofs your kitchen. If you currently live in an apartment that requires a ductless ventilation hood, but you plan to renovate and add a duct later, this hood can adapt to both scenarios.
Ductless vs. Ducted: Which Mode Should You Use?
While convertible hoods offer choice, the setup you choose depends on your home's infrastructure.
The Ducted Setup
This is the gold standard. If you have pipes running through your ceiling or wall to the outdoors, you should install the hood in ducted mode. It removes heat and humidity most effectively.
The Ductless Setup
For high-rise condos, apartments, or historic homes where drilling holes is prohibited, a ductless range hood is the only option. In this mode, the air is forced through an additional carbon (charcoal) filter.
Looking for flexible solutions?
Explore our specialized collection designed for homes without external venting.
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How to Caring Your Convertible Range Hood
Maintaining a convertible hood is slightly different depending on which mode you are using. If you are using it as a ductless ventilation hood, filtration is your lifeline. Here is a step-by-step guide to keeping your air fresh.
Part 1: The Grease Filters (Metal)
Regardless of whether you are ducted or ductless, you have metal filters (Baffle or Mesh). These trap heavy grease particles.
- Remove: Unlatch the metal filters from the bottom of the hood.
- Soak: Fill your sink with very hot water and a generous amount of degreasing dish soap and baking soda. Submerge the filters for 15-30 minutes.
- Scrub: Use a non-abrasive brush to gently scrub away the loosened grease.
- Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry completely before reinstalling.
👉 Read our full Deep Cleaning Guide here.
Part 2: The Carbon Filters (The Ductless Essential)
If you have converted your hood to recirculating mode, you have an extra layer: the activated charcoal filter. This is the most critical part of a ductless system.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING:
You CANNOT wash or clean charcoal filters. They work by trapping odors in porous carbon. Once the pores are full, the filter stops working. Washing them ruins the carbon structure.
How to Replace Charcoal Filters:
- Access: Remove the metal grease filters to reveal the motor housing.
- Locate: The charcoal filters usually attach directly to the side of the motor (often a round black disc).
- Twist & Remove: Twist the old filter counter-clockwise to unlock and remove it.
- Install: Align the new charcoal filter, push gently, and twist clockwise until it clicks into place.
- Frequency: Replace these every 3 to 6 months depending on how often you cook.
Why Choose a Brano Recirculating Range Hood?
At Brano, we believe in flexibility. Most of our models are engineered to be convertible, meaning you don't have to sacrifice style for functionality. Whether you choose a statement Island hood or a discreet Insert, you can adapt the venting to your lifestyle.
Ready to find the perfect fit? Check our Buying Guide or browse our collections below.
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Buying Guide →
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does a convertible range hood come with a ductless kit?
Not always. While the hood itself is capable of both methods, the charcoal filters required for ductless operation are often sold separately as an accessory kit.
2. Is a ductless ventilation hood as effective as a ducted one?
Ductless hoods are excellent at trapping grease and neutralizing odors, but they cannot remove heat or humidity from the room since the air is recirculated. Ducted hoods are generally more efficient.
3. How often do I change the charcoal filters?
For average cooking, replace them every 3 to 6 months. If you fry food often or cook with heavy spices, you may need to change them every 2 months.
4. Can I wash and reuse the charcoal filters?
No. Activated carbon filters cannot be washed. Water ruins their ability to trap odors. They must be discarded and replaced.
5. Do I need a professional to convert my hood to ductless?
Usually, no. Converting to ductless is often a DIY-friendly task involving installing a recirculation kit and attaching carbon filters to the motor.
6. Can I switch from ductless to ducted later?
Yes! That is the main benefit of a convertible hood. If you remodel your home and add ductwork later, you can simply remove the charcoal filters and connect the hood to the new vent.
7. Are convertible range hoods noisy?
Ductless mode can be slightly louder than ducted mode because the air is being forced through dense charcoal filters, creating more resistance.
8. Do convertible hoods require a chimney?
Wall-mount convertible hoods usually have a chimney. In ductless mode, the chimney must have slots/holes near the top to allow clean air to recirculate back into the kitchen.
9. How do I know if my hood is convertible?
Check the product specifications for "Venting Type." If it says "Convertible" or lists both "Ducted/Ductless," it is convertible. Most Brano hoods are convertible.
10. What happens if I don't change the charcoal filters?
The airflow will be restricted, causing the motor to overheat or strain. Odors will not be removed, and grease may build up inside the motor housing.