An exhaust fan is an essential appliance for maintaining air quality and temperature in areas prone to humidity, especially the kitchen. It effectively removes steam, odor, and moisture, creating a fresh and pleasant environment for cooking and breathing. In this article, we will explore the best exhaust fans for kitchens in 2022, along with a comprehensive buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision.
What is an Exhaust Fan?
An exhaust fan consists of a motor that rotates its blades, pulling the air out of the space it is installed in. It is a valuable appliance for kitchen ventilation, effectively removing odors and improving air quality. Some models even come with a thermostat feature that automatically switches the fan on when a specific temperature is reached. By eliminating hot air and maintaining proper airflow, an exhaust fan keeps your kitchen environment cool and comfortable.
Types of Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
There are two main types of exhaust fans for kitchens:
Ducted Exhaust Fans
Ducted exhaust fans use an air duct to expel indoor air and moisture. They empty the kitchen air outside the house and are highly effective in removing smoke and humidity. This type of fan offers efficient ventilation and keeps your kitchen free from unpleasant odors and excess moisture.
Non-Ducted Exhaust Fans
Non-ducted exhaust fans filter the air using charcoal and release clean and fresh air back into your kitchen. They are installed inside the kitchen and are less effective than ducted ventilation systems. However, they still provide adequate ventilation and improve air quality by removing odors and maintaining proper airflow.
Benefits of Exhaust Fan
Exhaust fans offer several benefits for your kitchen environment:
- Moisture and Oil Removal: They efficiently remove excess moisture and oil build-up, preventing damage to your ceilings or walls.
- Improved Air Quality: By drawing out unpleasant odors, exhaust fans significantly improve air quality, creating a clean and fresh atmosphere.
- Cooling Effect: Exhaust fans vent out hot air, helping to cool down the kitchen area that becomes hot during cooking activities.
- Enhanced Visibility: By pulling steam out of the kitchen, exhaust fans improve visibility, making it easier to cook and work in the kitchen.
- Reduced Humidity: Exhaust fans reduce humidity, preventing the accumulation of mold and removing smoke from the kitchen.
- Ideal Ventilation: They prevent the build-up of dangerous gases and offer ideal ventilation, ensuring a safe and comfortable cooking environment.
Our Top 10 Best Kitchen Exhaust Fans
iPower 12 inch Shutter Exhaust Fan
The iPower 12-inch shutter exhaust fan is a lightweight and easy-to-install option suitable for various spaces such as garages, attics, chicken coops, or greenhouses. With high-quality aluminum shutters and blades, this fan offers durability and resistance against corrosion and rust. It provides an airflow capacity of 940 cubic feet per minute, effectively pulling out fumes and smoke from small spaces.
iLiving 12 inch Smart Remote Shutter Exhaust Fan
The iLiving 12-inch smart remote shutter exhaust fan is a reliable product that reduces cooling bills and keeps your kitchen and living space cooler. With high-quality aluminum shutters and a permanently lubricated motor, this fan offers consistent speed and smooth function. It comes with adjustable speed functionality, a thermally protected motor, and a remote control for convenient operation.
Caption: iLiving 12 inch Smart Remote Shutter Exhaust Fan
Holmes Dual Blade Twin Window Fan
The Holmes dual blade twin window fan is a versatile option for bringing in fresh air from outdoors and exhausting stale indoor air. It is designed for slider window kitchens and comes with independent and reversible motors, allowing you to choose air intake, exhaust, or air exchange functions. With adjustable speed settings and energy-efficient operation, this fan provides effective ventilation while reducing energy consumption.
Caption: Holmes Dual Blade Twin Window Fan
Powerful Industrial Exhaust Fan by Maxx Air
Maxx Air's powerful industrial exhaust fan is a highly functional and efficient option for good ventilation. It effectively eliminates harmful particles such as fumes, oil droplets, moisture, and chemicals, keeping the air fresh and clean. With automatic exterior shutters and a heavy-duty design, this fan offers reliable performance and a high airflow capacity of 1400 CFM.
Caption: Powerful Industrial Exhaust Fan by Maxx Air
Broan-NuTone 509 Square Exhaust Fan
The Broan-NuTone 509 square exhaust fan is a beautiful and modern ventilation fan designed for through-the-wall installation. It effectively removes cooking odors, humidity, and unpleasant smells, keeping your kitchen and home smelling fresh. With a built-in damper, decorative polymeric grilles, and specially designed fan blades, this fan offers high performance and energy efficiency.
Caption: Broan-NuTone 509 Square Exhaust Fan
TPI Corporation CE14-DS Exhaust Fan
The TPI Corporation CE14-DS exhaust fan is a single-phase chain-operated fan with a convenient pull-chain switch. It features 3 aluminum paddles enclosed with a front spiral wire made of steel for strength and durability. With a built-in shutter mechanism and self-closing shutters, this fan offers easy installation and protection from rain and snow.
Caption: TPI Corporation CE14-DS Exhaust Fan
Air King 9166F 20 Whole House Window Fan
The Air King 9166F 20 whole house window fan is an effective solution for ventilation and air circulation. With three variable speed rotations and a front-mounted rotary switch, this fan offers customizable airflow control. It features a one-phase motor with sleeve bearings for smooth and quiet operation. The industrial-grade quality of this fan ensures high-velocity air circulation and ventilation.
Caption: Air King 9166F 20 Whole House Window Fan
iLIVING ILG8SF16VC Shutter Mount Exhaust Fan
The iLIVING ILG8SF16VC shutter mount exhaust fan offers superior ventilation and comfort in any space. With weather-resistant aluminum shutters, this fan can withstand heat and moisture for extended periods. It comes with adjustable speed functionality and a fully enclosed motor for easy maintenance. The high airflow capacity of 1200 CFM ensures efficient ventilation.
Caption: iLIVING ILG8SF16VC Shutter Mount Exhaust Fan
KEN BROWN 12 inch Variable Shutter Exhaust Fan
The KEN BROWN 12-inch variable shutter exhaust fan is a versatile option suitable for various spaces, including workshops, homes, factories, and kitchens. With high-grade aluminum construction, this fan offers rust and corrosion resistance. It features automatic gravity shutters, a variable speed controller, and a fully enclosed motor for efficient and customized ventilation.
Caption: KEN BROWN 12 inch Variable Shutter Exhaust Fan
SAILFLO 6 Inch Reversible Exhaust Fan
The SAILFLO 6-inch reversible exhaust fan is a small but efficient option for various spaces, including kitchens. With double-direction ventilation and a wear-resistant motor, this fan offers powerful and quiet operation. It can control air intake and exhaust and provides fresh airflow for a comfortable environment. The detachable panel allows for easy cleaning and installation.
Caption: SAILFLO 6 Inch Reversible Exhaust Fan
General Factors to Consider When Buying an Exhaust Fan
While choosing an exhaust fan for your kitchen, the following factors should be taken into consideration:
- Airflow Capability: Consider the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating of the fan to ensure it can move enough air to effectively ventilate your kitchen. The fan's airflow capacity should match the size of your kitchen space.
- Mounting Type: Decide whether you prefer a ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or exterior-mounted fan, depending on your kitchen's layout and your specific needs.
- Special Controls: Look for fans with additional features such as motion sensors or humidity sensors, which enhance convenience and energy efficiency.
- Noise Level: Consider the noise level (measured in sones) of the fan. Choose a model with a lower sone value for quieter operation.
- Duct Size: Ensure that the fan's duct size is compatible with your kitchen's ventilation system for optimal performance.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best exhaust fan that meets your specific requirements and provides efficient ventilation for your kitchen.
In conclusion, exhaust fans are essential for maintaining a clean, fresh, and comfortable kitchen environment. With a wide range of options available, you can select the best exhaust fan based on your preferences, kitchen size, and specific needs. Whether you opt for a ducted or non-ducted fan, prioritize features like airflow capability, mounting type, special controls, noise level, and duct size to ensure optimal performance and ventilation in your kitchen.
Note: The images used in this article are taken from the original source.