Ducted Range Hoods: The Gold Standard for Kitchen Air Quality
When Your Kitchen Deserves the Best
There's a reason professional chefs insist on ducted vent hoods—they simply work better. By venting smoke, steam, grease, and cooking odors directly outside your home, these kitchen exhaust hoods deliver the cleanest air and the most comfortable cooking experience possible. If your kitchen can connect to the exterior (and most can), a ducted vent system is the gold standard we recommend every time.
Since 2013, we've been pairing stunning custom copper range hoods with premium Trade-Wind USA ducted ventilation systems that work as hard as we do. Whether you prefer the all-in-one convenience of an in-hood ventilation hood system or the whisper-quiet operation of a remote in-attic blower, we'll help you breathe easy while you cook up brilliance.
Why Ducted Ventilation Pays Off
Ducted Vent Hood is Worth It.
Ducted vent hood systems don’t recirculate—they remove. That’s the crucial difference. Every bit of smoke, steam, grease, and cooking odor gets pulled up through your stovetop hood and sent outside your home, leaving your kitchen air fresh and your surfaces cleaner.
The Ducted Ventilation Advantage
Superior Air Quality:
Completely removes cooking smoke and odors (doesn't just filter them)
Eliminates humidity and steam that can damage cabinets
Removes combustion byproducts from gas cooking
Keeps your kitchen and adjoining spaces fresh
Long-Term Benefits:
Less grease buildup on cabinets, countertops, and walls
No ongoing filter replacement costs (just clean the baffle filters)
Better for respiratory health, especially with gas cooking
Increases home value with professional-grade ventilation systems
Performance and Flexibility:
Available in CFM ranges from 290 to 1266
Handles any cooking style from casual to professional
Suitable for all cooktop hood sizes and fuel types
Quieter operation options with in-attic blowers
The Investment Pays Off: While ducted vent hoods require more installation work upfront, they deliver superior performance for years to come with minimal ongoing costs. No filter subscriptions, no performance degradation—just clean, fresh kitchen air, every time you cook.
Understanding Your Ducted Vent Options
Quick Comparison: In-Hood vs. In-Attic Ventilation Systems
Factor | In-Hood System | In-Attic System |
|---|---|---|
Motor Location | Inside your copper hood | Tucked away in the attic |
Noise Level | ~7 sones | Nearly silent in the kitchen |
CFM Options | 290, 390, 600, 1200 | 392, 836, 1266 |
Controls | Touch controls with 3 speeds & remote | Turn dial variable speed (no remote) |
Best For | All-in-one convenience | Ultra-quiet open-concept homes |
Attic Access Required | No | Yes |
Installation Complexity | Standard | More Complex |
Price Point | More affordable | Premium option |
The Decision:
Want simplicity and value? → In-Hood Vent System
Need whisper-quiet operation? → In-Attic Vent System
Have an open-concept home? → Consider In-Attic Ventilation seriously
Standard kitchen layout? → In-Hood ventilation delivers excellent performance
In-Hood Ventilation Systems: The All-in-One Powerhouse
What Makes In-Hood Systems Special
In-hood ventilation is the Swiss Army knife of kitchen exhaust—everything you need lives right inside your gorgeous custom hood. The motor, lights, switches, and filters are all integrated into one cohesive unit, making this the most popular choice for homeowners who want powerful, reliable ventilation without complexity.
The Complete Package Inside Your Hood:
Trade-Wind USA Essential Insert with integrated motor
Premium 304-grade stainless steel liner (the gold standard that'll outlast your mortgage)
Reusable stainless steel baffle filters (because we believe in sustainability almost as much as style)
Integrated LED lighting to illuminate your culinary canvas
Intuitive touch controls with three speed settings
Wireless remote control with programmable 5-minute auto-shutoff timer
Powered by dedicated 15/20 amp circuit, hardwired 120V 60Hz household current
Approximately seven sones operation (similar to normal conversation volume)
CFM Power Options: Match Your Cooking Style
290 CFM - The Retrofitter's Friend
Perfect for homes with existing 6" ductwork already in place. This option makes upgrading your hood easier than a Sunday morning pancake flip.
Home renovations with existing 6" ductwork
Budget-conscious upgrades
Smaller kitchens (under 150 square feet)
Light cooking needs (2-3 times per week)
Electric or induction cooktops
Gas ranges up to 25,000 BTUs
Single motor, 390 CFM max airflow
7" round ductwork minimum
Suitable for cooktops 24"-36" wide
Wall-mount or island installation
Ducted exhaust to exterior required
390 CFM - The Weekend Warrior
Perfect for light to moderate cooking in kitchens up to 200 square feet. Ideal for electric cooktops and gas ranges up to 30,000 BTUs.
Casual home cooks
Smaller to medium kitchens
Induction cooktops
Electric ranges
Gas ranges up to 30,000 BTUs
Apartment and condo living
Sunday brunch enthusiasts
Single motor, 390 CFM max airflow
7" round ductwork minimum
Suitable for cooktops 24"-36" wide
Wall-mount or island installation
Ducted exhaust to exterior required
600 CFM - The Home Chef's Sweet Spot
The Goldilocks option—just right for most cooking adventures. Handles everything from weeknight dinners to weekend entertaining with ease.
Frequent home cooks (4-5 times per week)
Gas ranges 30,000-50,000 BTUs
Families who love to cook
Open-concept kitchens
Wok enthusiasts
Grilling aficionados
Anyone who sears, sautés, or stir-fries regularly
Dual motor option available
600 CFM max airflow
8" round ductwork minimum
Suitable for cooktops 30"-48" wide
Recommended minimum for serious gas cooking
Wall-mount or island installation
1200 CFM - The Culinary Powerhouse
When your cooking ambitions require serious muscle, this professional-grade option tackles the most demanding cooking scenarios without breaking a sweat. Look at all those lights and baffles!
48"+ cooktops
High-BTU gas ranges (50,000+ BTUs)
Professional chefs cooking at home
Large families and frequent entertainers
Daily cooking at high temperatures
Wok masters and grilling enthusiasts
Anyone who takes cooking seriously
High-performance dual motor
1200 CFM max airflow
10" round ductwork required
Suitable for cooktops 48"-60" wide
May require makeup air depending on local codes
Professional installation strongly recommended
Installation Considerations for In-Hood Vent Systems
Ducting Requirements:
In-hood ventilation systems require round metal ductwork (depending on CFM) that vents directly to your home's exterior. The shorter and straighter your duct run, the more efficiently your system will perform.
Vertical or Horizontal Venting:
Most in-hood vent systems can vent vertically through your ceiling/roof or horizontally through an exterior wall. Choose based on your kitchen layout and the easiest path outdoors.
For 48" Cooktops and Larger:
We strongly recommend 600 CFM minimum for cooktops up to 48" wide. Any cooktop larger than 48"? The 1200 CFM is your go-to for optimal performance. Big cooking needs big breathing room!
Energy & Code Compliance:
All Trade-Wind inserts meet or exceed IRC ventilation requirements. Systems over 400 CFM may require makeup air units depending on local building codes—check with your contractor or local building department.
In-Attic Remote Blower Systems: Kitchen Ninja Mode
The Whisper-Quiet Solution
There's a reason professional chefs insist on ducted vent hoods—they simply work better. By venting smoke, steam, grease, and cooking odors directly outside your home, these kitchen exhaust hoods deliver the cleanest air and the most comfortable cooking experience possible. If your kitchen can connect to the exterior (and most can), a ducted vent system is the gold standard we recommend every time.
Perfect for open-concept living where sound matters more than ever. When your kitchen flows seamlessly into your dining and living spaces, every decibel counts. In-attic ventilation systems deliver commercial-grade ventilation performance while keeping your kitchen quieter than a Wisconsin lake at dawn.
What Makes In-Attic Systems Different
What's Still in Your Hood:
Premium 304-grade stainless steel liner
Reusable stainless steel baffle filters
LED lighting and electronic controls
Turn dial variable speed control (attic vent systems use dial controls, not remotes)
All the style with almost none of the sound
What Lives in Your Attic:
High-performance remote blower motor
Inline sound insulation (silencer/muffler) for whisper-quiet operation
Professional-grade ductwork connections
Electrical connections and controls
CFM Options for Remote Blower Ventilation Systems
392 CFM - The Quiet Performer
Entry-level power for smaller cooktops and moderate cooking, now in stealth mode.
Open-concept homes prioritizing quiet operation
Moderate cooking needs (3-4 times per week)
Gas ranges up to 30,000 BTUs
Apartments and condos with attic access
Conversation-friendly kitchens
Homes with nearby bedrooms
392 CFM max airflow
Single remote motor
Operates at whisper-quiet levels in the kitchen
6" round ductwork minimum
Requires accessible attic space
Suitable for cooktops up to 36" wide
836 CFM - The Silent Workhorse
Serious ventilation power without the soundtrack. Handles demanding cooking while you entertain guests undisturbed.
Serious home cooks who entertain
Gas ranges 30,000-65,000 BTUs
Open floor plans with dining and living areas
Podcast-recording chefs (yes, really!)
Conversation lovers
Great rooms and loft spaces
Anyone who values peace and quiet
836 CFM max airflow
High-performance remote motor
Minimal kitchen noise
8" round ductwork recommended
Requires accessible attic space
Suitable for cooktops 30"-48" wide
1266 CFM - The Silent Powerhouse
Professional-grade muscle that doesn't make a peep where it counts. Maximum power, minimum noise.
48"+ professional ranges
High-BTU cooking (65,000+ BTUs)
Luxury open-concept homes
Chefs who demand perfection
Serious entertainers
Large families with active kitchens
Anyone wanting the best of both worlds
1266 CFM max airflow
Commercial-grade remote motor
Ultra-quiet kitchen operation
10" round ductwork required
Requires accessible attic space
Suitable for cooktops 48"-60" wide
May require makeup air depending on local codes
Installation Considerations for In-Attic Systems
Attic Access is Essential:
Your home needs accessible attic space above or near your kitchen for motor installation. Not suitable for homes without attics, flat roofs, or difficult access situations.
Longer Duct Runs:
Since the motor is remote, you'll need ductwork connecting your ducted vent hood to the attic motor, then from the motor to exterior. Professional installation ensures optimal performance and proper noise isolation.
Insulation Recommendations:
Insulating ductwork reduces noise transmission and prevents condensation, especially in colder climates like our Minnesota and Wisconsin roots.
Professional Installation is Recommended:
Remote blower ventilation systems require experienced installers familiar with proper motor mounting, ductwork sizing, silencer installation, and electrical connections.
Perfect for: Glamorous traditional kitchens, spaces with abundant natural light, formal cooking areas where you want maximum luxury impact, designs that celebrate metallics.
Technical Details: High-polish brass finish with protective clear coating to maintain mirror-like surface and prevent tarnishing.
Polished Brass: Mirror-Bright Magnificence
Polished Brass is for those who believe that if you're going to choose brass, you might as well let it shine like the star it was born to be. This mirror-bright finish reflects light like jewelry, creating a luminous focal point that makes your kitchen feel larger and more luxurious. It's brass at its most glamorous, perfect for creating those "wow" moments that have guests reaching for their cameras.
Perfect for: Glamorous traditional kitchens, spaces with abundant natural light, formal cooking areas where you want maximum luxury impact, designs that celebrate metallics.
Technical Details: High-polish brass finish with protective clear coating to maintain mirror-like surface and prevent tarnishing.
The Premium Liner: Foundation of Every Ducted System
What Makes Our Liners Special
Every CopperHoods ducted system starts with a premium 304-grade stainless steel liner—the same commercial-grade material used in professional kitchens and restaurants. This isn't just a cosmetic choice; it's the foundation that ensures your ventilation system performs flawlessly for decades.
Why 304-Grade Stainless Steel?
Corrosion Resistant: Won't rust or degrade from cooking moisture and grease
Heat Tolerant: Handles high temperatures without warping or discoloration
Easy to Clean: Smooth surface wipes clean and resists staining
Antimicrobial Properties: Naturally resists bacteria growth
Built to Last: Will outlast your mortgage and probably your grandkids' mortgages too
Liner Features Included with Every System
Professional-Grade Construction:
Custom ventilation projects
Pairing with your preferred blower brand or model
Situations requiring specific CFM not available in standard packages
Homes with existing inline or external blower systems
Flexible future upgrade paths
Integrated Components:
Mounting hardware for secure installation
Baffle filter rails with easy-removal knobs
LED light housing and electrical connections
Ductwork connection points
Reusable Baffle Filters:
Professional-style stainless steel construction
Easy-removal knobs for quick cleaning
Dishwasher-safe for hassle-free maintenance
Capture grease before it enters your ductwork
Last for years with proper care
Liner-Only Option Available
Choosing Your Perfect Ducted Ventilation System
The Decision Tree: In-Hood or In-Attic?
Start with your kitchen layout:
Question 1: Do you have accessible attic space above or near your kitchen?
✗ No attic access → In-Hood System (your only ducted option)
✓ Yes, accessible attic → Continue to Question 2
Question 2: How important is ultra-quiet operation?
Normal kitchen sounds are fine → In-Hood System (great performance, lower cost)
Quiet is crucial (open concept, entertaining, recording, etc.) → In-Attic System
Question 3: What's your budget?
Value-focused → In-Hood System
Willing to invest in premium features → In-Attic System
Question 4: Installation timeline?
Standard timeline acceptable → In-Hood System
Have time for more complex install → In-Attic System
Light Cooking (2-3 times/week, mostly electric):
In-Hood: 290-390 CFM
In-Attic: 392 CFM
Regular Cooking (4-5 times/week, moderate gas):
In-Hood: 600 CFM
In-Attic: 836 CFM
Serious Cooking (daily, high-BTU, 48"+ cooktop):
In-Hood: 1200 CFM
In-Attic: 1266 CFM
Calculating Your CFM Requirements
Three Methods to Determine Your Needs
Method 1: By Cooktop Width
Wall-mount hoods: 100 CFM per linear foot
Example: 30" cooktop = 2.5 feet × 100 = 250 CFM minimum
Island hoods: 150 CFM per linear foot
Example: 36" cooktop = 3 feet × 150 = 450 CFM minimum
Method 2: By Gas Cooktop BTU Output
Total BTU ÷ 100 = Minimum CFM needed
Example: 40,000 BTU range ÷ 100 = 400 CFM minimum
Example: 60,000 BTU range ÷ 100 = 600 CFM minimum
Method 3: By Kitchen Size
Length × Width × Height ÷ 4 = Recommended CFM
Example: 15' × 12' × 9' = 1,620 cubic feet ÷ 4 = 405 CFM
Your Final CFM: Choose the highest calculated CFM from these three methods, then select the next available system size that meets or exceeds that number.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, size up. You can always run a more powerful system at lower speeds, but you can't increase the capacity of an undersized system.
Ducted Vent Installation & Technical Specifications
General Requirements for All Ducted Exhaust Systems
Electrical
All systems require 120V 60Hz standard household current with a dedicated 15/20 amp circuit recommended for optimal performance and code compliance.
Ductwork Materials:
Use rigid or semi-rigid metal ducting only—never flexible plastic dryer vent. Code-approved materials include:
Galvanized steel (most common)
Stainless steel (premium)
Aluminum (lightweight)
Duct Sizing by CFM:
290 CFM: 6" round minimum (typically for homes with existing 6" ductwork)
390-400 CFM: 7" round minimum
600 CFM: 8" round minimum
836 CFM: 8" round minimum
1200-1266 CFM: 10" round minimum
Duct Length Considerations:
Exterior Termination:
Ducts must terminate outside through proper exterior venting caps—never into attics, crawl spaces, or soffits. Place exterior vents:
Away from windows and doors
Away from air intake vents
At least 10 feet from other exhaust outlets
In locations that won't be blocked by snow or debris
Hood Height Above Cooktop
Gas Cooktops:
Minimum: 30" (code requirement)
Recommended: 30"-36" for optimal performance
Electric/Induction Cooktops:
Recommended: 30"-36" for optimal performance
Professional Ranges (high BTU):
Recommended: 36" minimum for safety and performance
Making Ductled Exhaust Systems Work for You: Pro Tips
Monthly Maintenance (5 minutes)
Wipe down stainless steel baffle filters with warm soapy water or run through dishwasher
Clean hood interior and exterior according to finish-specific care guidelines
Inspect lights and replace any burned-out bulbs
Check for grease buildup around filter edges
Quarterly Maintenance (15 minutes)
Deep clean baffle filters in dishwasher with degreasing detergent
Check ductwork connections to ensure tight seals
Inspect exterior vent cap for debris, leaves, or obstructions
Test all fan speeds to ensure proper operation
Annual Professional Check
Ductwork inspection for buildup or damage
Motor performance check ensuring proper operation
Electrical connection inspection for safety
Remote blower maintenance (in-attic systems)
Deep cleaning of entire vent system if needed
The Good News:
Frequently Asked Questions: Ductless Hood Edition
Seven sones is comparable to normal conversation volume or the sound of traffic from inside your car. It's noticeable but not disruptive for most people. If you need quieter operation, in-attic systems are virtually silent in the kitchen.
Technically yes, but it requires replacing the entire system, installing the remote blower in your attic, and adding the silencer/muffler. It's expensive and invasive. Choose the right system from the start based on your noise tolerance and budget.
Ready to Match Your Masterpiece with Perfect Ventilation?
Your Custom Hood Deserves Custom Ventilation Planning
We don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—not for range hoods, and definitely not for ventilation. When you work with CopperHoods, we'll help you select the perfect ducted system based on:
✓ Your specific cooktop size and BTU output
✓ Your cooking style and frequency
✓ Your kitchen layout and duct routing possibilities
✓ Your noise tolerance and lifestyle preferences
✓ Your budget and local building code requirements
✓ Attic access and installation considerations
Next Steps:
Contact Our Team: Let's discuss your ducted ventilation options
Explore Hood Styles: Browse our collection of custom copper range hoods
View Finish Options: Choose the perfect finish for your culinary centerpiece
Read Customer Stories: See how we've transformed kitchens like yours
Learn About Ductless: If exterior venting isn't possible
Shop Every Style Under The (Range) Hood
Curved Hoods
Customized to your liking with clipped, straight, or arched aprons, Curved hoods add a touch of elegance to your kitchen decor.
Bell Shaped Hoods
With outward and then inward curves, Bell Shaped hoods are stunning at any angle, and are an excellent option for lower ceilings.
Box Hoods
The simplest of all hood styles, Box hoods offer sloped, barrel, and curved profiles to provide versatility while conveying your style.
Pyramid Hoods
The geometric design of Pyramid hoods offer a modern look with tapered lines to complement open shelves and large islands.
Find Your Perfect Match—First 10 Swatches Free!
Find Your Perfect Match—First 10 Swatches Free!
Additional samples just $5 each.
Mix and match until you find "the one"!