When planning or upgrading a kitchen, one question often comes up:
Do I really need a range hood?

Some people see it as optional, especially if they don’t cook every day. Others swear it’s a must-have. The truth is, whether a range hood is necessary depends on how you cook and how your home is designed.

Let’s break it down so you can decide with confidence.

What Happens If You Don’t Use a Range Hood?

Cooking doesn’t just produce smells—it releases smoke, grease, moisture, and heat into your home. Without proper ventilation, these can slowly build up and cause problems such as:

• Lingering cooking odours that spread to the living room and bedrooms

• Grease settling on cabinets, walls, and appliances

• Yellowing walls and sticky kitchen surfaces over time

• Eye and throat irritation from smoke

• A kitchen that feels hot and stuffy after cooking

These issues are even more noticeable in apartments, condominiums, or homes with open-concept kitchens.

Who Should Consider Getting a Range Hood?

A range hood is especially helpful if you:

• Cook frequently, especially frying, stir-frying, or grilling

• Use high heat or oil-based cooking methods

• Have an open kitchen connected to the living or dining area

• Live in a home with limited natural ventilation

• Have children or elderly family members at home

In these cases, a range hood helps keep the air cleaner and your home more comfortable.

How to Choose the Right Range Hood

If you decide to get one, here are a few key things to consider:

1. Suction Power Matters More Than Design

A stylish hood is nice, but strong suction is what truly removes smoke and grease effectively.

2. Noise Level

A powerful hood doesn’t have to be loud. Check the noise level, especially if your kitchen is close to your living area.

3. Size and Fit

The hood should match or be slightly wider than your cooktop for better coverage.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Look for removable filters and easy-to-clean surfaces—this makes long-term maintenance much easier.

So, Is a Range Hood Worth It?

A range hood isn’t mandatory for every home—but for many households, it’s a quality-of-life upgrade.

If you cook often and value a cleaner kitchen, fresher air, and a more comfortable home environment, a range hood can make a noticeable difference. It helps protect your kitchen from grease buildup and keeps your living space more pleasant in the long run.

Sometimes, it’s not about whether you can live without it—but how much better your daily life feels with it.

Thinking of upgrading your kitchen?
Visit your nearest ESH outlet or explore online to find a range hood that suits your cooking style and home layout.