Understanding the Necessity of a Vent Hood
Determining the necessity of a vent hood in your outdoor kitchen is straightforward. If your outdoor kitchen will be installed under a covered pavilion, lanai, porch, pool house, or any other structure with a solid ceiling, you definitely need a ventilation hood above the grill. Conversely, if your grill or outdoor kitchen is completely open and uncovered by any structure, a vent hood is not required.
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, more than half of all outdoor kitchen projects today include some type of overhead structure. This increases the likelihood that a vent hood should be part of your design plans. A solid roof provides shade and protection from the elements, enhancing the usability and enjoyment of your outdoor living area. A vent hood further improves the experience by protecting your investment.
Safety Considerations
There are also safety reasons to incorporate a vent hood. Local municipal construction and fire codes may mandate the installation of a vent hood over any grill placed beneath a combustible overhead structure.
Functions of a Vent Hood
A vent hood in an outdoor kitchen functions similarly to one in an indoor kitchen. It incorporates a powerful fan to draw smoke, heat, grease, and food odors away from the grill and out of the outdoor living space. This prevents cooking smoke from disturbing guests and stops grime from accumulating on the ceiling, walls, and soft surfaces, thus protecting paint and outdoor furnishings from damage.
Choosing the Right Vent Hood
To select the appropriate size, ensure the hood extends approximately 152 mm (6 inches) beyond the dimensions of the grill. For instance, a 762 mm (30-inch) grill requires a 914 mm (36-inch) vent hood, and a 1067 mm (42-inch) grill needs a 1219 mm (48-inch) vent hood.
If you have multiple grills, each outdoor cooking appliance will need its own hood. Alternatively, a custom hood large enough to cover multiple grills side by side, though more costly, can be considered.
Key Features to Look For
- High CFM Rating: A fan blower with a high Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) rating indicates strong air movement, essential for effective operation in an outdoor environment, even in windy conditions.
- Multispeed Fan: This allows you to adjust the fan speed to suit what you are grilling. Lower settings may suffice for quick-cooking items like boneless chicken breasts, while higher settings are needed for smokier foods like bacon or cedar-planked salmon.
- Quiet Motor: A quiet motor ensures that the fan does not drown out conversations or other activities.
- Built-in Lights: Handy for grilling in low light conditions.
Material and Maintenance
Choose a hood made from durable, high-quality stainless steel that withstands grease, smoke, and frequent cleanings. Regular cleaning, ideally twice a month or after every 24 hours of use, prevents staining and grime buildup. Opt for easy-to-remove, dishwasher-safe filters to make maintenance less burdensome. Clean the hood inside and out with a non-abrasive cloth and soapy water.
Installation Considerations
A vent hood is an electric appliance and should be installed by a licensed electrician. Optimal positioning is between 762 mm (30 inches) and 1219 mm (48 inches) above the cooking surface. This ensures sufficient clearance to open the grill lid while allowing the fan to draw properly without being hindered by breezes.
Most vent hoods are made of stainless steel to seamlessly coordinate with grills and outdoor appliances. However, you can also use a hood as a liner inside a customized, decorative surround to create a focal point or match the hood to your outdoor cabinetry.
Sincerely, The Prime-Cookout Customer Support Team