Venting Hood Guide

Jul 11, 2017

Venting Hood Guide for Outdoor Kitchens

Choosing an outdoor BBQ vent hood for your outdoor kitchen is different from choosing an indoor hood. When delving into the realm of outdoor BBQ vent hoods, navigating through the array of specifications, from internal blower speeds to CFM ratings, can feel like deciphering an intricate puzzle. To assist you in this quest for the perfect addition to your outdoor kitchen, we've compiled a comprehensive guide, shedding light on the key factors to consider before making your selection.

Size

Indeed, holds considerable significance in the realm of outdoor vent hoods. To effectively capture smoke on a blustery day, it's paramount to opt for an outdoor BBQ vent hood that surpasses the dimensions of your grilling surface. By doing so, you can mitigate the risk of smoke dispersion and ensure optimal ventilation. While most grill manufacturers provide minimum size recommendations, veering towards a larger hood size than stipulated is advisable. In the absence of manufacturer specifications, our seasoned experts advocate for selecting a vent hood that exceeds the grill surface area by a margin of four to eight inches, guaranteeing enhanced efficiency in smoke extraction.

CFM Ratings

Understanding CFM ratings is pivotal in discerning the prowess of a vent hood's fan system. CFM, or Cubic Feet per Minute, serves as a metric for gauging the volume of air a fan can move. Given the challenges posed by outdoor conditions such as wind speed and the copious smoke generated by grilling activities, opting for a robust fan system boasting a high CFM rating is imperative. While a minimum CFM threshold of 1200 is recommended, opting for a higher rating promises superior performance, particularly in the context of an outdoor kitchen where rigorous ventilation is indispensable.

Ventilators equipped with adjustable internal blower speeds offer a commendable degree of versatility, enabling users to tailor ventilation settings to suit varying conditions and smoke levels. While not a mandatory feature, the flexibility afforded by adjustable blower speeds can prove invaluable in optimizing the efficacy of your ventilation system, especially in the face of fluctuating wind speeds.

Smoke Dispersal

Contemplating the mode of smoke dispersal is another crucial consideration when selecting a vent hood. Whether opting for a roof cap or an outside wall to facilitate smoke escape, consulting with a knowledgeable expert can provide invaluable insights into the most suitable option for your specific setup. While roof top vents offer a direct pathway for air dispersion, outside wall installations may present a more pragmatic solution for certain outdoor kitchen configurations.

Positioning of the hood is paramount to its efficacy in smoke extraction. A recommended clearance of approximately 36 inches from the base of the counter to the hood's base ensures optimal smoke capture while averting potential head bumps. Vent size also warrants meticulous attention, with a minimum diameter of 10 inches being essential to facilitate adequate smoke capture. For larger grills, dual vents or alternative features augmenting vent size may be warranted to accommodate heightened smoke output.

Warranties

Navigating warranty considerations for your outdoor BBQ vent hood is imperative to safeguarding your outdoor kitchen investment. Given the potential for excessive heat emanating from outdoor cooking activities to prematurely degrade roofing materials, adherence to proper venting guidelines is indispensable to avoid voiding warranties. Consulting with a qualified professional during installation is strongly advised to ensure compliance with warranty stipulations and mitigate risks of premature wear and tear on roofing components.

The selection of an outdoor vent hood demands careful deliberation. With factors such as size, CFM ratings, adjustable features, ventilation mode, positioning, vent size, and warranty implications. All warranting thorough consideration before purchasing. By heeding these guidelines and consulting with knowledgeable professionals, you can embark on your outdoor culinary adventures with confidence, armed with a ventilation system tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Our Recommendation

The Trade-Wind 7272 72″ Stainless Steel Vent Hood, is part of the P7200 series. It is an impressive addition to your outdoor cooking setup. This barbecue grill hood boasts variable speed controls, halogen lighting, and dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters. Features ensuring optimal performance and easy maintenance.

The canopy-style design of this wall-mounted hood adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor kitchen. Whilst, still effectively capturing smoke and odors. Crafted from durable #304-grade stainless steel, this range hood features an all-stainless steel exterior. Which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also eliminates grease traps. Keeping it clean and maintaining its sleek appearance is a hassle-free process.

While this particular model does not include a blower, it is compatible with external blowers. The ducted venting type ensures efficient removal of cooking byproducts, with a powerful CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating of 1266 CFM x 2, offering outstanding ventilation performance. The variable fan speed controls allow you to adjust the airflow according to your grilling needs, whether you’re searing, roasting, or simply keeping the air fresh.

The addition of halogen lighting provides a well-lit grilling area, enhancing visibility, even in low-light conditions. With four stainless steel baffle filters, this vent hood efficiently filters out grease and smoke, ensuring a cleaner and more enjoyable cooking environment. These filters are easy to maintain, as they are dishwasher safe.

Trade-Wind Vent Hoods

Notably, all the Trade-Wind hoods are a top choice amongst outdoor grilling enthusiasts who seek both style and functionality. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make it a valuable addition to your outdoor kitchen. Thereby, allowing you to focus on what matters most – creating delicious grilled dishes.

If you need help choosing the vent hood that’s best for your outdoor kitchen, our experts are here to help. Contact us and talk to a professional about your outdoor kitchen today! Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for more tips on enhancing your outdoor kitchen.