How Much Does It Cost to Install a Vent Hood?

Average Cost to Install a Range Hood

Range Hood Installation Costs by Type

Consider your budget when planning the cost of remodeling a kitchen. Range hoods are available in different types that vary in where and how they're mounted. Each has specific features and benefits, and the style you choose will significantly impact the cost of materials and installation time for your project.

Under-Cabinet

Under-cabinet range hoods cost around $700 to $1,000 for materials and installation labor. These hoods are tucked on the underside of the cabinets or cupboards above a stove to make the most of the storage space while providing the benefits of a hood.

Wall-Mounted

Wall-mounted range hoods cost approximately $700 to $1,000 for materials and installation labor. They're among the most common hoods today and are mounted onto the wall 2 to 3 feet above a stovetop to catch fumes. They're a great choice if you don't have cabinets above your cooker. Depending on the ceiling height, you may need a chimney extension to cover the ductwork.

Island

The cost of installing an island range hood that hangs from the ceiling over your kitchen island stove is between $500 and $1,400, depending on labor costs. These units tend to take more time to install since they must vent through the roof. Larger models also require two people to lift, mount, and secure, adding to labor costs. The cost of a kitchen island is around $3,000 to $5,000. 

Downdraft

A downdraft kitchen hood installation costs around $1,500 to $3,000 for materials and installation labor. These modern hoods pop up vertically behind the stove for a smaller, sleeker look. They also suck air and fumes down into a vent rather than up, the opposite of traditional hoods. This method is less efficient but offers a minimalist look that takes up less space.

Ductless Hood vs. Ducted Vent Installation Costs

Different range hoods handle exhaust differently, transporting it either via ductwork or ductless methods. The type you choose may depend on what setup works best for your home and the look you prefer.

Installation costs also vary by type, with a ducted system typically costing more. There are also convertible systems with both ductless and ducted functionality.

Ductless

Ductless range hood systems don't require ductwork or vents and cost around $100 to $300. This system is less effective than a ducted range hood since the fumes are filtered but not actually removed. They're also the easiest to install and are most common in homes where you can't install ductwork.

Ductless systems work by absorbing steam and fumes from the cooktop; trapping some of the oil, grease, and odors with a charcoal or carbon filter; then recirculating the hot air back into the kitchen. You must replace filters after 120 hours of cooking or every three to six months.

Ducted

A ducted range hood connects to ductwork in the walls or ceiling of a home, through which heat, fumes, grease, and odors are carried outside and effectively removed to keep the kitchen clean and fresh. This type of system can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on whether you need new ductwork or if you need to pay the cost to replace ducts or vents.

Installing ductwork for a range hood costs about $500, including materials and installation labor. Expect higher costs for longer ducts and more complex routes with many turns. You’ll also pay a higher fee to install a range hood vent through a wall versus the roof.

Convertible

A convertible range hood costs between $200 and $1,200 and can switch between the features and functionality of both ducted and ductless systems. They tend to be installed like a ducted system that leads out of the home through the walls or ceiling but are also able to recirculate warm air.

Kitchen Exhaust Fan Installation Cost

Installing a kitchen exhaust fan requires about three hours, with a rate between $65 and $100 per hour. A kitchen exhaust fan isn’t actually part of the hood, although many homeowners use the two terms interchangeably.

Range Hood Installation Cost Factors

Several different factors influence the cost of your range hood installation. Keep reading to find out more in-depth information below.

Labor

Appliance installation costs can vary. The labor to install a range hood costs around $50 to $100 per hour, or $85 per hour on average. Most contractors also charge a trip fee in addition to their hourly rate. Installation time can range from one to four hours, not including the time needed to modify ductwork or electrical work. The complexity of the project and your location are the biggest variables.

Amount of Ductwork

If you’re installing a ducted or convertible system that requires new ductwork, you’ll pay more for longer duct systems or complex systems with multiple turns.

CFM Rating

Every range hood has a CFM rating, which stands for cubic feet per minute. This refers to the number of cubic feet of air that moves through the system in a minute. Larger kitchens require a system with a higher minimum CFM than smaller spaces, and systems with a higher CFM rating may cost more to install depending on their size.

Range Finish

You’ll find a wide variety of options when it comes to the finish color and style of range hoods. You can match your hood to your painted white cabinets, or you may opt to create a luxurious modern look with a stainless steel or glass finish to go with a high-end appliance, such as the cost of an oven installation. You’ll find a range of prices for each finish style.

DIY vs. Hire a Range Hood Installer

The most important consideration in deciding whether to install a range hood yourself or hire a pro is the type of hood you’re installing. An experienced DIY-er may be able to install a ductless hood because this type only requires you to connect the wiring and secure the hood in place. Installing a range hood yourself can help lower the cost of a DIY kitchen remodel even further.

However, a vented hood usually requires the installer to cut through masonry, which a range hood installer in your area should perform. Routing the ductwork is also a job you should leave to the pros.

FAQs

Do I need an electrician to install a range hood?

You don't need an electrician to install a range hood. Some general electricians install range hoods, but you should use a contractor with specific experience installing kitchen appliances in your area. 

In rare cases, you may want an electrician to do the wiring for the hood after the primary contractor installs it. This usually isn't necessary since most separate range hoods have an extension cord you can simply plug into a wall outlet.

Do range hoods need to be vented outside?

Range hoods don’t need to vent outside your house, although this design is the most effective way to remove particles in the air from your house. The alternative approach is a ductless hood that blows the air into the kitchen, which recirculates the exhaust throughout your house.

Do I need a vented hood for a gas range?

Legally, you don't need a vented hood for a gas range. However, we recommend you install a range hood above a gas range because the range can send odors, fumes, and grease into your home's air. A range hood will filter or remove these elements and keep your kitchen clean and fresh while maintaining a safe and healthy air quality.

How high should a range hood be above the cooktop?

A hood range should generally be at least 24 inches above the cooktop, although some gas ranges may require a distance of 30 inches.