Welcome to Brano
Explore our comprehensive guides, from expert buying advice to professional installation and long-term maintenance, to ensure your kitchen remains the heart of your home.
Other Resources
Self-Service & Repair Guide
Select your issue below to watch the specific repair tutorial. Each guide uses an official Brano video.
Clock Setting
Step-by-step video on how to adjust and sync the time display.
Watch Video Guide →Switch Replacement
Professional guide to replacing the control panel and switch board.
Watch Video Guide →Motor Replacement
Advanced tutorial for removing and installing a new blower motor.
Watch Video Guide →Bulb Replacement
Safe and quick method to replace LED lighting modules.
Watch Video Guide →Range Hood Buying Guide FAQ
Detailed answers to help you select the high-performance kitchen ventilation system that fits your home. For more expert insights, read our 2026 Range Hood Buying Guide.
How do I choose the right size range hood for my stove?
For optimal smoke capture, a 30-inch range hood is the industry standard for most kitchens. However, pros often recommend over-sizing the hood by 6 inches (e.g., using a 36-inch range hood over a 30-inch cooktop) to create a larger suction area and prevent oil particles from escaping.
What is CFM and how much airflow do I need?
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures the volume of air moved. For electric or induction cooktops, 300-600 CFM is typically sufficient. For high-output gas ranges, a higher rating of 600-900+ CFM is required to safely remove heat and combustion byproducts.
What is the difference between ducted and ductless range hoods?
A ducted range hood exhausts air directly outside, offering the best grease removal. If your kitchen layout doesn't allow for external venting, a ductless range hood uses activated charcoal filters to purify and recirculate air back into the room.
Which mounting style is best for my kitchen layout?
If you have cabinets above your stove, an under cabinet range hood or an insert range hood is the space-saving choice. For an open-wall design, a wall mount range hood creates a bold professional look.
What is the ideal installation height above the cooktop?
The standard safety distance is 24" to 30" for gas burners and 20" to 26" for electric or induction surfaces. Proper mounting height ensures maximum suction efficiency while protecting the internal components from heat damage.
What are the benefits of stainless steel baffle filters?
Unlike disposable mesh filters, stainless steel baffle filters are the professional choice for heavy-duty cooking. They are designed to force grease to condense on the blades and drip into a tray, and most are completely dishwasher-safe for easy maintenance.
Why choose a side-suction or slant range hood?
A side-suction range hood (also known as a slant hood) sits closer to the cooking surface and utilizes an angled design to capture steam before it rises. This design is highly effective at preventing head-bumps and managing heavy oil smoke.
How is range hood noise measured?
Noise levels are measured in "Sones." A rating of 1-3 Sones is considered very quiet (like a refrigerator), while 6-8 Sones is comparable to a normal conversation. High-quality hoods use balanced blowers to maintain high CFM with lower Sone ratings.
How often do charcoal filters need to be replaced?
For ductless systems, activated charcoal filters should be replaced every 4 to 6 months depending on cooking frequency. These filters are essential for neutralizing odors and trapping fine grease particles in non-vented setups.
What should I check before replacing my old hood?
Verify your existing duct size (usually 6" or 8" round) and the electrical outlet location. If you are upgrading your kitchen, always check our Installation Video to ensure compatibility with your current cabinetry.
Range Hood Installation FAQ
Technical requirements and expert tips to ensure your kitchen ventilation system is installed safely and efficiently.
What is the standard mounting height for a kitchen exhaust fan?
The ideal distance between the cooking surface and the bottom of the hood is 24" to 30" for gas ranges and 20" to 26" for electric or induction stovetops. Mounting higher than 30" may cause smoke to escape, while mounting lower than 20" can damage internal components due to excessive heat.
Should I use rigid or flexible ducting for my vent?
For maximum airflow and minimum noise, rigid metal ducting is highly recommended. Flexible foil or plastic ducting creates air turbulence and traps grease more easily, which reduces the effective CFM and increases the risk of fire hazards over time.
What duct diameter do I need for a high-CFM hood?
Most standard hoods require a 6-inch round duct. However, high-performance models (900+ CFM) typically require an 8-inch or 10-inch duct to handle the air volume without backpressure. Using a smaller duct than specified will significantly increase noise and decrease suction power.
How do I prepare the wall for a wall mount range hood?
A wall mount range hood requires a solid support structure. Ensure there are wood studs or a support header behind the drywall at the mounting location. If your kitchen has a full-height backsplash, it is usually easier to install the hood first and tile around it.
Does an island range hood require special ceiling support?
Yes. Because an island range hood hangs solely from the ceiling, it must be secured to the ceiling joists. If the joists do not align with your cooktop, a professional installer will need to build a wooden cross-support frame in the attic or ceiling space.
What are the electrical requirements for a modern range hood?
Most residential hoods run on a standard 110V-120V AC outlet. We recommend a dedicated 15-amp circuit to prevent tripping, especially for units with high-power motors and LED lighting. Always check if your model requires a hardwired connection or a standard 3-prong plug.
How do I install a hood in ductless (recirculating) mode?
To install a ductless range hood, you must attach a recirculation kit which includes charcoal filters. These filters sit over the motor housing to scrub grease and odors before the air is vented back through the chimney slots or the top of the unit.
What is a backdraft damper and do I need one?
A backdraft damper is a flap that allows air to exit but prevents outside cold air from entering your home. Most high-quality ducted range hoods come with a built-in damper at the transition point, but an additional wall or roof cap with a damper is recommended for the exterior exit point.
How do I measure for an under cabinet range hood installation?
For an under cabinet range hood, measure the cabinet width and the distance to the nearest electrical source. You will also need to determine if your ducting will exit through the top of the cabinet or through the back wall, as this affects where you cut the access holes.
What should I check immediately after installation?
Run the fan on all speeds to check for unusual vibrations or rattling. Use a piece of tissue paper to verify suction at the filter surface. Finally, ensure all protective plastic film is removed from the stainless steel to prevent it from baking onto the surface over time. If you need further assistance, visit our User Manual.
Range Hood Maintenance FAQ
Simple care tips and cleaning routines to keep your kitchen ventilation system performing at its peak for years to come.
How often should I clean my range hood filters?
For standard daily cooking, we recommend cleaning your stainless steel baffle filters every 1 to 2 months. If you frequently engage in high-heat frying or searing, monthly cleaning is advised to prevent grease buildup, which can restrict airflow and become a fire hazard.
Are range hood filters dishwasher safe?
Most high-quality stainless steel baffle filters are 100% dishwasher safe. We recommend placing them on the bottom rack and running a standard cycle with mild detergent. However, aluminum mesh filters should be hand-washed to avoid discoloration caused by harsh dishwasher chemicals.
How do I clean the exterior stainless steel without scratching it?
Always use a soft microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the stainless steel grain. For daily spots, a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap works best. For a professional shine, use a specialized stainless steel cleaner and avoid abrasive sponges or ammonia-based products.
Do black range hoods require special cleaning care?
A black range hood with a matte or brushed finish is excellent at hiding fingerprints, but it should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth only. Avoid acidic cleaners that could damage the specialized coating. Regular dusting will keep the finish looking deep and uniform.
When should I replace the charcoal filters in a ductless hood?
Unlike metal filters, charcoal filters in ductless range hoods cannot be washed. They must be replaced every 4 to 6 months to maintain odor neutralization. If you notice cooking smells lingering longer than usual, it’s a sign the carbon is saturated and needs a fresh set.
Does the range hood motor require oiling or lubrication?
Most modern high-performance blower motors are permanently lubricated and sealed at the factory. They do not require additional oiling. The best way to maintain the motor is to ensure the filters are clean, so the motor doesn't have to work harder due to grease-clogged pathways.
Can I upgrade my halogen lights to LED?
In many cases, yes. LED lighting is the preferred choice for modern under cabinet range hoods because they stay cool and use less energy. Ensure the replacement bulb matches the base type (usually GU10) and voltage of your existing unit.
How do I clean the interior of the range hood?
Once the filters are removed, you can access the interior housing. Use a degreaser spray on a cloth to wipe down the reachable surfaces. Avoid spraying liquid directly into the motor or electrical components to prevent short circuits.
What should I do if the fan blades are covered in grease?
If you notice a decrease in suction or an increase in vibration, the fan blades (impellers) may have grease buildup. While deep cleaning usually requires partial disassembly, regular use of the hood on high speed for a few minutes after cooking can help prevent grease from settling on the blades.
What is a recommended yearly maintenance checklist?
Once a year, we recommend: 1. Checking the exterior wall cap or roof vent for obstructions (like bird nests). 2. Inspecting the ductwork connections for leaks. 3. Deep cleaning all filters. 4. Testing the control panel and remote for responsiveness. For technical parts, consult our Customer Service team.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Quick diagnostic tips to resolve common performance issues and ensure your kitchen ventilation operates smoothly.
Why is my range hood not pulling enough air?
Poor suction is often caused by grease-saturated filters or an obstruction in the external ductwork. First, clean your stainless steel filters. If the problem persists, check the external wall cap or roof vent for blockages like bird nests or lint buildup.
What causes excessive vibration or rattling noises?
Vibration usually stems from a loose motor mounting or a damaged blower wheel. Check if all mounting screws are tightened. For island range hoods, ensure the ceiling support frame is rigid and perfectly level to prevent motor imbalance.
The fan motor is not starting but lights are working.
This typically indicates a failed motor capacitor or a disconnected wire harness. Inspect the internal connections to ensure they haven't vibrated loose. If the unit is old, the motor bearings may have seized and require professional inspection.
Why are my LED lights flickering or turning off?
Flickering LED lights are often caused by a failing LED driver or a loose connection in the light housing. Ensure the bulbs are seated correctly. If all lights fail at once, the transformer on the control board may be the culprit.
The touch control panel is unresponsive to touch.
Grease or humidity on the glass surface can interfere with touch sensitivity. Wipe the panel with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. You can also reset the system by turning off the power at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds to reboot the control board.
Why is there cold air blowing back through the hood?
This is caused by a stuck or missing backdraft damper. The damper is a flap that should close when the fan is off. In ducted range hoods, check the damper at the top of the unit and the exterior vent cap for grease buildup that might be keeping them open.
Why is smoke escaping even on the highest speed?
Check if the hood is mounted too high above the cooktop. Also, ensure there are no strong cross-drafts from open windows or doors. For side-suction range hoods, verify the smoke baffle opens fully to guide the smoke into the intake.
Why is the kitchen still smelling like food after cooking?
For ductless range hoods, this is a clear sign that the charcoal filters are saturated and need replacement. In ducted systems, ensure you run the fan for 5-10 minutes after cooking is finished to completely clear the ductwork of lingering odors.
The range hood turns off by itself during use.
Most modern hoods have a thermal protection sensor. If the motor gets too hot (due to grease blockages or excessive heat from the stove), it will shut off automatically to prevent damage. Allow the unit to cool down and ensure your filters are clean.
The unit has no power at all. What should I check?
Verify that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. Check the power cord connection behind the chimney or inside the cabinet. If the power source is active but the unit is dead, the main control fuse may have blown. For further technical support, please contact our team.