Kitchen Smoke Extractor Options: Hood, Exhaust Fan, Inline Fan and Air Purifier, Airflow Needs, Noise, Installation, Running Cost and Which Suits Pakistani Cooking
A kitchen smoke extractor removes smoke, steam and cooking smells, and the main choices are a hood over the hob, an exhaust fan in the wall, an inline fan in the duct or an air purifier, each suited to different kitchens. This page compares airflow needs, noise, installation, running cost and which option suits Pakistani cooking, where oily, spicy frying is common. For hoods see electric hoods, for fans see small fans for kitchens and for exhaust fans see kitchen exhaust fans.
The options
- Hood with duct. Captures smoke above the hob and sends it out, the best for frying.
- Exhaust fan. A wall or window fan that removes general steam and heat.
- Inline fan. A fan in the duct for long runs with a quiet hood.
- Air purifier. Filters air back into the room, helpful for smell and fine particles.
Indicative rates
These ranges show common retail figures.
| Option | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Exhaust fan, 8 to 12 inch | PKR 2,000 - 8,500 |
| Hood with duct, 60 to 90 cm | PKR 22,000 - 45,000 |
| Inline duct fan | PKR 6,000 - 25,000 |
| Air purifier, room size | PKR 15,000 - 60,000 |
| Duct and fitting | PKR 3,500 - 12,000 |
| Electrician, fitting | PKR 800 - 2,500 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Airflow needs
A rule of thumb for kitchen ventilation is to change the room air 10 to 15 times an hour. For a 10 by 10 by 9 foot kitchen, that is about 250 to 400 cubic metres per hour in general terms, but a hood over a gas hob should carry 700 to 1,200 cubic metres per hour at the source.
Noise and running cost
Powerful extractors can be noisy, so check the decibel rating or listen in the shop. Running costs are small, as hoods and fans use 100 to 250 watts. A brushless motor is quieter and more efficient. See DC exhaust fans.
Which suits Pakistani cooking
Heavy frying and masala cooking produce oily smoke and strong smell, so a ducted hood is the best primary choice, with an exhaust fan or window for general air change. Purifiers help in apartments where venting outside is hard, but do not remove heat or steam well.
Installation
Fit the hood or fan on an outside wall if possible, with a short duct, a flap cap and a protected circuit. See kitchen hood ducting. A licensed electrician should install and test the wiring.
What to check before buying
- Airflow rating. At the source.
- Noise level. Listen to it.
- Filter type. Washable and easy to remove.
- Warranty and service. Written.
Before you decide
Decide whether you can vent to the outside. If you can, choose a ducted hood. If you cannot, combine a recirculating hood or purifier with a window or exhaust fan. A good extractor protects your health, walls and cabinets.
Frequently Asked Questions
A ducted hood over the hob is best for frying. An exhaust fan adds general ventilation, and a purifier helps where venting outside is hard. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Aim for about 700 to 1,200 cubic metres per hour at a gas hob, and general room air change of 10 to 15 times an hour. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
An exhaust fan is about PKR 2,000 to 8,500, a hood about PKR 22,000 to 45,000 and a purifier about PKR 15,000 to 60,000. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
It helps with smell and fine particles but does not remove heat and steam well. A ducted hood is better. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
No. Hoods and fans use about 100 to 250 watts, and brushless motors use less. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Send the details and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists the model, size, warranty and delivery, so you can compare it with other quotes on the same scope. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Clearing kitchen smoke?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.