How Much Does Range Hood Installation Cost?

Highlights

• The typical cost to install a range hood is $400 to $1,500, with a national average cost of $750.
• There are several factors that affect the total cost of range hood installation, including the range hood type and finish, the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating, the noise (sone) rating, and the cost of labor and permits.
• A range hood has numerous benefits, including adherence to local codes, improved home safety, better air quality, fewer odors, and improved cleanliness in the kitchen.
• DIY range hood installation may be possible for a homeowner who has experience working with electricity and ductwork; however, homeowners without this specific experience will want to leave this project to a professional.

A smoky kitchen, a noisy exhaust fan, or an outdated range hood: Any of these situations is a great reason for a homeowner to decide it’s time to get a new range hood installed. Even if a full kitchen remodel is beyond the current budget, the cost to install a new range hood might be more reasonable. On average, homeowners spend $750 or between $400 and $1,500 on residential range hood installation cost, according to Angi and HomeAdvisor.

Over-the-range hoods come in a few different styles to suit design preferences, which means they also come at different costs. The final price a homeowner pays for range hood installation will depend on the range hood type and finish, labor and permit costs, existing range hood removal, additional renovations, and other factors. But the benefits can outweigh the cost, since the best range hoods offer a healthier environment, less noise, additional lighting, and more.

Factors in Calculating Range Hood Installation Cost

From simple to extravagant, range hood vents come in a variety of options and prices. The type of finish a homeowner prefers is another factor that will determine a range hood installation cost. In addition, range hoods have a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating that makes some models more suitable for larger kitchens. The sone rating, or sound level, of the exhaust fan can also influence the final cost.

Range Hood Type

The biggest factor in calculating the cost of a kitchen range hood is the type a homeowner chooses. Not only can the material of the hood affect the price, but the cost of labor to install the hood can as well. Some models require additional materials, electrical updates, or ductwork. This is usually the case when a homeowner is doing a full kitchen remodel.

A contractor can help a homeowner identify the right type of hood range for a stove to ensure adequate ventilation for the size of the kitchen. This helps ensure a safer environment for the home’s occupants, since the exhaust fan will remove grease, odors, smoke, and excess heat from the kitchen. Homeowners can choose from wall-mounted range hoods, built-in range hoods, ductless range hoods, and more.

Range Hood Finish

The finish of a range hood has a huge impact on range hood installation costs, since the materials come at their own price points. For instance, a copper range hood costs between $250 and $1,250, on average. Stainless steel range hoods cost a little more at $300 to $1,500, on average, but both styles could run as high as $8,000 for a large, lavish model.

Copper, stainless steel, and glass range hoods usually have the highest price points, while traditional black, white, and bisque range hoods come in at lower average costs ranging from $100 to $1,000.

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) Rating

Every range hood has a CFM rating, but what does that mean, exactly? According to Joelle Battista, head of culinary marketing at Designer Appliances, “CFM stands for ‘cubic feet per minute’ and is a measure of the volume of air a range hood can move in one minute. The CFM rating indicates the hood’s ventilation capacity.”

This is important, since a large kitchen will need a higher CFM rating to keep the air quality clean and clear. “Higher CFM ratings mean the hood can move more air, which is beneficial for larger or more powerful cooking appliances,” explains Battista. These models often cost more than models with a lower CFM rating. The average CFM rating for a kitchen range hood is 300 to 700 CFM. Homeowners can do a quick calculation to estimate the minimum CFM rating needed for a new range hood.

• Length x width x height = cubic feet
  • (Ex: 12 x 12 x 9 = 1,296 cubic feet)
• Cubic feet x 15 air exchanges per hour = cubic feet per hour
  • (Ex: 1,296 x 15 = 19,440 CFH)
• Cubic feet per hour / 60 minutes = cubic feet per minute
  • (Ex: 19,440 / 60 = 324 CFM)

“The ideal CFM rating depends on the size of the kitchen and the heat output of the cooktop or range,” Battista says. “As a general guideline, aim for around 100 CFM per linear foot of cooking surface.”

Sone Rating 

An important but sometimes overlooked factor in choosing the right range hood is the sone rating. This is a fancy term for the sound level that the exhaust fan will produce. An extremely loud exhaust fan can be bothersome when residents are trying to communicate with family and friends in the kitchen, so choosing a range hood with a lower sone rating is recommended.

The sone rating is measured on a scale of 1 to 20, with 1 being the quietest (about as loud as a refrigerator). The quieter the sone scale, the lower the cost, and most types of range hoods average 6 to 10 sones.

Labor and Permits

The labor cost to install a range hood typically runs between $50 and $100 per hour. In most cases, installing a range hood takes about 1 to 4 hours, though ductless range hood installation is usually quicker at 1 to 2 hours. If additional wiring or ductwork is required, the time and corresponding labor costs will increase. To ensure they understand the costs involved, homeowners can ask if the quote includes removal of an existing hood, the addition of ductwork, or any additional trip fees.

Sometimes a permit is required depending on the local municipal regulations. A contractor will likely know when to obtain permits, but homeowners can also call their local municipality and ask. The type of permit needed is sometimes called a “mechanical permit,” and the cost averages $100 to $230. Homeowners are also encouraged to ask if a fire inspection is required, since a range hood performs an important safety function and needs to be installed properly to reduce the risk of kitchen fires. Extra fees will apply if a fire inspection is necessary.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Beyond the main cost factors for range hood installation, homeowners may have additional costs due to certain situations that may or may not apply to them. For instance, an existing hood range may need to be removed before the new one can be installed. This adds extra labor costs to the total price, just as adding ductwork or updating electrical wiring does. Cabinet or backsplash repairs could be needed depending on how much access the contractor has to install the vent hood. And of course, a full kitchen remodel will make the cost of the range hood installation seem like a drop in the bucket.

Existing Range Hood Removal

Removing an old range hood is a fairly quick process, so a handyman or contractor can do it for about $25 to $50, including disposal. If the hood is being replaced by a contractor, they’ll often add it to the total project price. Ideally, the removal process should limit any damage to surrounding walls, cabinets, or backsplashes, but sometimes damage is inevitable due to the design.

Range hood installers also sometimes find underlying issues with wiring or ductwork after removing the old hood that will need to be resolved before the new unit can be installed. Any of these variables can increase the total cost.

Ductwork Installation

Any ductwork during installation of a range hood will increase the price due to the extra time and materials required. In a perfect world, the new range hood will match the existing ductwork and electrical wiring and make for a fast and easy installation. When these conditions don’t match up perfectly, installers will take longer to make the necessary changes to ensure the hood is safely connected and installed.

When a homeowner has a ductless range hood and needs a full range hood duct installation, the total costs dramatically increase. Most ductwork jobs take as long as 4 hours to route the ductwork from the kitchen to the exterior of the house. If the ductwork has to take a lot of turns to get to the exit point, the costs will increase too. The labor cost for updating the ductwork averages $350. The cost to install a new range hood over an island will also cost more due to the need for additional ductwork, and rates could go as high as $900.

Electrical Work

Replacing a range hood usually means there is sufficient electrical wiring already installed. However, upgrading the existing type of range hood or remodeling an older home with outdated wiring will warrant the need for some electrical work. Some contractors who specialize in kitchen remodels are experienced at doing basic electrical work to get a new hood installed, but more complex jobs may require a professional electrician.

Usually, electricians can update the wiring at an average hourly rate of $50 to $100, but the amount of time they spend working depends on the complexity of the job. If a full kitchen remodel is being done, homeowners can probably reduce the total cost by combining multiple electrical jobs at once.

Repairs

Most range hood installations affect only the area directly touching the vent hood, but sometimes additional kitchen components need adjustments. A wall or cabinet may need to have a hole cut out to create space for wiring or ductwork. And sometimes the backsplash is damaged or removed during the removal or installation process.

With wall-mounted or over-the-hood range hoods, some minor ceiling or wall repairs will be necessary to leave a smooth finish. The costs associated with any of these kinds of repairs will vary by project, so homeowners are advised to discuss any concerns with the installer ahead of time to avoid surprises.

Kitchen Remodel

Homeowners who are in the planning stages or are in the middle of a kitchen remodel have numerous costs to consider and decisions to make, one of which is choosing a trending range hood that suits their budget and style. While the average cost to install a range hood is about $750 for materials and labor, a full kitchen remodel costs around $26,240. If fewer updates are needed, homeowners may spend as little as $14,551 to remodel a kitchen. Updating a range hood is on the lower end of kitchen remodeling costs, which makes it an appealing choice to include for a quick visual upgrade. The best kitchen remodeling companies can advise a homeowner on the best way to get the most out of their kitchen remodel project.

Types of Range Hood

There are a number of types of range hoods homeowners can choose from, with varying sizes and colors. The type will correlate to the material, and together they will influence the total cost before labor. Homeowners may prefer a simple ductless range hood or a fancier downdraft range hood. There are also features such as Wi-Fi and smart lighting to consider when the budget allows.

Type of Range Hood	Average Cost Range (Materials and Labor)
Cabinet-insert	$1,000 to $1,500
Convertible	$300 to $1,200
Downdraft	$1,500 to $3,000
Ductless	$200 to $400
Island	$500 to $1,400
Under-cabinet	$700 to $1,000
Wall-mounted	$700 to $1,000

Cabinet-Insert

As the name suggests, a cabinet-insert range hood is installed inside a cabinet so it’s less visible. This is the ideal choice for homeowners who prefer a seamless cabinet design in their kitchens. The cost of a cabinet-insert range hood is $1,000 to $1,500 for labor and materials. The price point is higher for this type of cabinet, but that’s often the case when homeowners are choosing new appliances for aesthetic reasons.

Convertible

Range hoods are either ductless or ducted. A convertible range hood can switch to either exhaust mode. This type of range hood requires ductwork to be installed, but convertible range hoods can be switched to simply recirculate the warm air within the kitchen through the carbon filter. Homeowners usually spend between $300 and $1,200 on this type of hood.

Downdraft

Most people imagine a range hood that sits above the stovetop, but a downdraft range hood is designed to sit behind the stove. They pop up from their hidden compartment in the countertop, which makes them ideal for minimalist spaces or islands. The fan pulls smoke, steam, and odors down the vent rather than up and out like a traditional hood vent does. A downdraft hood range typically costs $1,500 to $3,000 to install.

Ductless

The cheapest option for a new hood range is a ductless range hood, at $200 to $400 for parts and labor. This type is installed above the stove without ductwork, which makes installation costs much lower. Rather than drawing the smoke, air, odors, and grease out of the room and into the ductwork, a ductless range hood simply draws everything into the unit’s carbon filter before pushing the air back into the room.

As Battista explains, “Ductless range hoods use filters to capture cooking byproducts and then recirculate the cleaned air back into the kitchen. They are easier to install but less efficient at removing pollutants. If the filters are not changed regularly, these hoods can be ineffective.”

A ductless range hood is not the most ideal choice for preventing fires caused by grease buildup in the vent, so homeowners will want to stay vigilant about cleaning the hood. However, it’s a common choice for apartments or areas where it’s too costly to install ductwork.

Island

Installing a range hood over the kitchen island typically costs more due to the extra ductwork required. Island range hoods usually vent through the roof, and it takes time to route the ductwork properly. Oversize range hoods will require the help of two installers to lift and stabilize the unit during installation. Homeowners can spend anywhere from $500 to $1,400 to install an island range hood.

Under-Cabinet

Some kitchens have a shorter cabinet installed above the stove. It leaves space for a range hood to be installed without sacrificing too much storage. These are versatile types of hoods, so homeowners can choose a ductless, ducted, or convertible style. Under-cabinet range hoods are common, so contractors can install them in 1½ to 2½ hours. With labor and parts included, under-cabinet hoods cost between $700 and $1,000.

Wall-Mounted

Another common option is the wall-mounted range hood. This type usually requires ductwork where it’s mounted on the wall above the stove. If the kitchen ceilings are high, a chimney extension might be needed to hide the unsightly ductwork with a more attractive design that matches the hood. Almost every finish is available for wall-mounted range hoods, so homeowners have lots of options within the $700 to $1,000 average price range.

Benefits of Choosing to Install a New Range Hood

Many local building codes require some kind of ventilation system in the kitchen, and the common solution is a range hood. “We always recommend having a range hood, no matter what type of cooktop you’re using,” says Battista. But aside from adhering to regulations and expert recommendations, homeowners who install a new range hood enjoy several health benefits and a more comfortable atmosphere in their kitchen and home.

Adherence to Local Codes

For the safety of the home’s occupants, most building codes require a kitchen ventilation system of some kind to help homeowners breathe cleaner air despite what may happen on the stovetop. Ventilation systems are necessary for both electrical and gas ranges. In some cases, a fire inspection may be required to ensure the hood is properly installed and operates safely. This is almost always the case for commercial kitchens, but some local codes may require this for certain residential hood ranges.

Most homeowners install range hoods that are capable of drawing odors, grease, smoke, and steam away from the cooking area. A ducted system that pulls all contaminants out of the house is the safest choice and also comes with a lower risk of grease fires due to buildup in the fan. But ductless systems are more cost-effective and often the only choice for high-density housing. Another viable option is an under-the-cabinet microwave oven with an exhaust fan, but a true range hood yields the best results for proper ventilation.

Improved Safety

Battista explains that range hoods “can reduce the risk of kitchen fires by removing grease and fumes produced during cooking.” They help prevent residents from breathing in an excess of potentially harmful fumes and byproducts caused by cooking certain foods. They also collect grease that’s spat into the air by a hot pan, reducing airborne contaminants. Any residents who deal with allergies or asthma will benefit from cleaner kitchen air. It’s important to note that exhaust fans of any kind should be inspected and cleaned regularly to help prevent a possible grease fire.

Improved Kitchen Air Quality

Cooking on the stove or in the oven is a regular part of most homeowners’ lives, but there are chemical byproducts caused by cooking certain ingredients that can be harmful. Frequently frying foods or accidentally burning dinner is a fast way to pollute a home’s air quality. Additionally, gas fumes could build up from gas appliances without proper ventilation.

These problems can be mitigated by proper ventilation from a range hood. Even ductless range hoods can help reduce the concentration of contaminated air, since the air is filtered before being returned to the room. As Battista explains, range hoods “help improve indoor air quality by venting out potentially harmful pollutants and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.”

Decreased Odors

“Range hoods help remove cooking odors, smoke, and airborne particles, keeping your kitchen and home smelling fresh,” says Battista.

Range hoods are the ideal way to remove lingering odors from a home, especially if it’s far too hot or cold outside to open some windows. For homeowners who are sensitive to the smell of strong foods or stale odors, a ducted range hood solves the problem with the push of a button. Even ductless range hoods can help reduce odors, though ventilation systems that draw odors outside of the house will always perform better.

Improved Kitchen Cleanliness

Grease tends to find the nearest surface to land on and leave a sticky residue. And it can be tough to clean up properly. Thankfully, installing a range hood can reduce how much grease lands on nearby surfaces. Instead, the majority of cooking grease is drawn into the hood, leaving homeowners with less mess to clean off of cabinets and countertops.

“Range hoods capture grease and prevent it from settling on surfaces, making kitchen cleaning easier,” explains Battista.

Range Hood Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

It’s natural for a homeowner to wonder about DIY range hood installation, since some models seem capable of being mounted with just a couple of screws and turned on. “Homeowners with high-level DIY experience can often install range hoods themselves, especially if they choose ductless models, which are generally easier to install,” says Battista.

However, most range hoods are more complicated to install and require electrical wiring and ductwork. “Range hood installation may involve electrical work and heavy equipment, so professionals can ensure safety and compliance with local codes,” explains Battista. In addition, she says that “Professional installation may be required to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty on the range hood.”

New-construction kitchens will have all the necessary components installed by the contractor or subcontractor, which makes range hood installation look easy. A remodel is the trickiest of all, since the new range hood could have different requirements for ductwork or expose a problem with the existing wiring. That’s why it’s best to have a professional handle the installation of a range hood. As Battista explains, “Professionals have experience with various hood types and can ensure proper installation and ventilation, reducing the risk of problems.”

The cost of the unit is usually more than the cost of labor, unless it’s an oversize range hood that needs brand-new ductwork installed. Most installations take just a few hours and cost around $750, which may include any finishing updates to ceilings or walls. It can take an experienced DIYer double the amount of time or more to install a range hood. All in all, the money spent on an installer is worth it, since they are experienced at getting the job done quickly and correctly. “Professionals can provide tailored solutions for unique kitchen layouts and needs, including custom paneling to match or complement surrounding cabinetry,” concludes Battista.

How to Save Money on Range Hood Installation Cost

Many homeowners wonder “How much to install a range hood?” only to find it really depends on the type of range hood and the complexity of the project. But whether it’s time for a full kitchen upgrade or just a new range hood, homeowners can always find a few ways to save money. Range hood installation costs can vary depending on the project, but no matter the complexity of the project, there are ways to maximize the budget.

• Choose a simple style. If the goal is simply to install a new range hood that’s quieter or actually works right, then homeowners can opt to choose a simpler style that comes at a lower price point.
• Remove the old hood. Though it’s not a costly task to remove the old hood, DIY removal can save a few dollars.
• Opt for a ductless range hood. A ductless range hood is the cheapest option to install, since it doesn’t require any ductwork and extra labor.
• Limit the ductwork turns. The more turns the ductwork takes, the more it costs to install due to the extra time and materials. Working with the installer to ensure the most efficient route out of the house can help keep costs down.
• Combine construction projects. It’s common for contractors to reduce total costs if multiple projects are combined for one customer.
• Shop around. Homeowners can look for deals on range hoods during seasonal sales and purchase one at a discount.
• Consider a home warranty. A plan from one of the best home warranty companies (such as American Home Shield or AFC Home Club) can help cover the cost of range hood repair or replacement in some cases.

Questions to Ask About Range Hood Installation

No matter the size or complexity of a construction project, homeowners can feel more confident about their decision to hire a contractor when prepared with the right questions. Knowing what to ask and what to watch out for can help avoid miscommunication and unwanted surprises about range hood installation costs.

• Are you licensed and insured?
• How many range hoods have you installed?
• Will I need to obtain a permit?
• Will you do an on-site inspection for an accurate quote?
• What type of range hood is best for my kitchen and cooking style?
• If I want to install a ducted range hood to replace my ductless range hood, how much more will that cost?
• What if the range hood I want to have installed doesn’t fit the existing ductwork?
• What would it cost to install a downdraft range hood?
• Will you need to cut holes in my walls, ceiling, or cabinets?
• Does the quote include the cost to do any finish work if other damage is caused while you work on the range hood?
• Do you anticipate finding any wiring or ductwork issues that will need to be resolved first?
• How many installers will need to help install my range hood?
• Do you charge a trip fee?
• Will you remove and dispose of my existing range hood? If so, what will that cost?
• Can I buy my own range hood and have you install it?
• What kind of warranty do you offer?

FAQs

For such a simple kitchen appliance, there are still a lot of questions homeowners may have about installing a range hood. To help guide the process, homeowners can review additional questions and their answers to feel confident about their decision-making process.

Q. Does a range hood add value to your house?

Yes, in two specific ways. A basic range hood does a great job at trapping grease, which helps protect the other kitchen surfaces from long-term damage. A custom or eye-catching range hood installed in a remodeled kitchen can also attract the eye of a potential buyer. The majority of home buyers agree that a kitchen is one of the most important rooms on their list of non-negotiables. So the better the kitchen looks and functions, the more appealing it will be.

Q. Do electricians install range hoods?

Not necessarily. Electricians are a good choice to install any additional wiring that’s needed for a range hood or a full kitchen remodel. However, general contractors are usually the common choice to install a range hood, especially if it’s just a replacement over an existing one. The unit merely needs an outlet to plug the cord into for power.

Q. How many years does a range hood last?

Most range hoods last at least 10 years or more. Homeowners can extend the life of their range hood by cleaning out the fan, filter, or blower regularly. It’s also a good idea to have the ductwork cleaned to prevent an excess of grease buildup.

Q. How long does it take to install a range hood?

It usually takes 1 to 2 hours to install a range hood, but if there are issues with wiring or ductwork, it can take 3 to 4 hours or more. Homeowners can ask the contractor to inspect the existing range hood first to estimate how long it will take to replace, though there are times a problem is discovered after the old hood is removed.

Q. Do range hoods always vent outside?

No, only ducted range hoods vent outside. “Ducted range hoods vent cooking byproducts (smoke, odors, grease, etc.) to the outside through a duct system,” explains Battista. “They are more effective in removing pollutants and are a better choice for heavy cooking and gas-range users. Also, depending on the space, they may require a makeup air system to replace the air being sucked out of the room.”

Ductless range hoods are common for apartments or cost-conscious construction projects, but homeowners will also want to consider other factors before making a purchase. “When choosing between the two, homeowners should consider their cooking style, kitchen layout, and whether they have the option to install ducting,” advises Battista. “Ducted hoods are more effective but require more complex installation. Most people who live in condos or apartments have no choice but to have a ductless hood.”

Q. Do range hoods use a lot of electricity?

Not really. The majority of range hoods can operate from a standard 110-volt outlet. They typically draw about 5 to 7 amps, so they won’t need a dedicated circuit as long as the other kitchen appliances aren’t overloading it. A contractor can help ensure the circuit breaker has enough amperage to operate.

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Fixr, HomeGuide, Proline Range Hoods