How to Install a Range Hood Vent

Ducting is the unsung hero of a functional kitchen. A range hood that merely recirculates air is often just an expensive light fixture; a true ventilation system pulls steam, grease, and smoke out of your home entirely. Doing this right requires precision in cutting your wall or ceiling, but the payoff is a kitchen that stays clean and clear of cooking odors. Before you start, verify where your existing vent run is located or map out your path to the outdoors. If you are drilling through an exterior wall, you are creating a permanent opening in your home's envelope, so sealing that penetration is just as important as mounting the unit itself. Measure twice, keep your ducts as straight as possible, and ensure the hood is centered over your cooktop for maximum capture efficiency.

  1. Mark Your Perfect Height. Measure the distance from your cooktop to the bottom of the hood, typically 24 to 30 inches. Use a level to draw a horizontal line and mark the center point for the ductwork and the mounting brackets.
  2. Cut Smart, Not Through Studs. If the duct goes through the wall or ceiling, use a jigsaw or hole saw to cut the opening slightly larger than the duct diameter. Carefully avoid hitting any wall studs or ceiling joists while cutting.
  3. Secure Level, Rock Solid. Attach the mounting template to the wall and drill pilot holes for your anchors or screws. Secure the mounting bracket to the wall, ensuring it is perfectly level.
  4. Rigid Metal, Sealed Tight. Connect the rigid metal duct sections from the hood's exhaust port to the exterior vent cap. Seal every connection point thoroughly with aluminum foil tape, not cloth duct tape.
  5. Set Hood Dead Level. Lift the range hood onto the mounting bracket and secure it with the provided hardware. Double-check that it is flush against the wall and level before tightening all fasteners.
  6. Wire Safe, Test First. Turn off the power at the breaker, connect the wiring according to the color-coded diagram, and secure the housing cover. Restore power and test the fan and lights.