Venting hobs

What is a venting hob?

A venting hob, also known as a downdraft hob, is a type of cooktop with an integrated ventilation system. Unlike traditional range hoods, which are installed above the cooktop and vent smoke and fumes through ductwork, a venting hob pulls smoke and fumes down through the cooktop and expels them through ducts that run under the floor or behind the walls.

Venting hobs come in a variety of sizes and configurations, including induction, gas and electric models, and they can be used in island or peninsula installations as well as against a wall. The ventilation system is typically located in the center of the hob and can be raised and lowered as needed. When the hob is not in use, the ventilation system is hidden below the cooktop, providing a sleek, unobtrusive appearance.

Venting hobs are ideal for homeowners who want to keep their kitchen smoke-free without the need for a traditional range hood. They are also a great option for those who want to free up cabinet space above the cooktop for other uses, as well as those who want a modern, streamlined look in their kitchen.

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What are the benefits of a venting hob?

A venting hob, also known as a downdraft hob, has several benefits:

Smoke-free cooking: One of the most significant benefits of a venting hob is that it helps to eliminate smoke and cooking odors from the kitchen. Instead of rising into the air and filling the kitchen, smoke is immediately drawn down through the hob and vented outside.
Enhanced safety: When cooking with gas, there is always a risk of an open flame igniting nearby items, such as paper towels or curtains. A venting hob can help reduce this risk by drawing smoke and fumes away from the cooking area.
Space-saving design: Traditional range hoods take up valuable cabinet space above the cooktop, making it difficult to install cabinets or shelves in that area. A venting hob eliminates the need for a range hood, freeing up that space for other uses.
Easy to clean: Because a venting hob doesn't have a hood or filter, it's much easier to clean than a traditional range hood. All you need to do is wipe down the vent and hob surfaces, making cleanup a breeze.
Sleek appearance: Venting hobs have a modern, sleek appearance that can enhance the look of your kitchen. Because they don't have a bulky hood, they offer a streamlined look that complements modern kitchen design.

What are main differences between a venting hob and other hobs?

Ventilation: The primary difference between venting hobs and other hobs is the ventilation system. Venting hobs have an integrated ventilation system that draws smoke and fumes down through the cooktop, whereas other hobs, such as gas and electric hobs, require a separate range hood to vent smoke and fumes out of the kitchen.
Design: Venting hobs have a sleek, modern design that is different from other hobs. The ventilation system is typically located in the center of the hob and can be raised and lowered as needed, providing a streamlined appearance. Other hobs, such as gas and electric hobs, have a more traditional design and may require a separate range hood, which can take up cabinet space above the cooktop.
Safety: Venting hobs can be safer than other hobs because they draw smoke and fumes down through the cooktop and away from the cooking area, reducing the risk of a fire or other safety hazard. Traditional range hoods can be less effective at removing smoke and fumes, which can pose a risk to those in the kitchen.
Cleaning: Venting hobs can be easier to clean than other hobs because they don't have a separate range hood or filter. The ventilation system can be wiped down along with the hob surface, making cleanup quick and easy. Other hobs may require cleaning of both the cooktop and range hood, which can be more time-consuming.
Cost: Venting hobs can be more expensive than other hobs because of the integrated ventilation system. Other hobs may be more affordable because they don't require a separate ventilation system, such as a range hood. However, the cost difference will depend on the specific model and features of the hob.

Types of venting and extractor hobs

Induction hob with extractor: Uses magnetic fields to generate heat, making them safe and energy-efficient. Extractor sucks up smoke and steam from the cooking surface.
Gas hob with extractor: Provides precise temperature control, making them popular among professional chefs. Extractor removes fumes and odors through a vent hood above the cooktop.
Electric hob with extractor: Comes in various forms such as ceramic, radiant or coil. Extractor pulls steam and smoke from the surface through a filter system, which can be either ducted or recirculated.
Downdraft induction hob with extractor: Features a retractable vent which rises up from the hob surface, collecting smoke and steam downwards.
Ceiling mounted extractor with induction hob: The extractor is integrated into the ceiling above the cooktop, allowing for unobstructed views in the kitchen