Is Stainless Steel the best range hood material?

Ryan M. Grambart
Founder & CEO - CopperSmith
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Ryan M. Grambart

stainless steel range hoods

Is Stainless Steel A Viable Choice For A Range Hood?

Houses are in abundance: they come in endless shapes, sizes, locations, and styles, but are mostly incomplete until further customized, personalized, and given that unique touch only a homeowner can provide. It is what transforms a vacant house into a beautiful home. An elegant kitchen is the finishing piece of the puzzle, adding substantial value, creating depth, and harboring memories that will last a lifetime. Within this space, it's essential to consider the type of material that will be used when furnishing.

In today's world, innovation, durability, and a sleek finish are highly sought after. Through a futuristic lens, kitchen appliances are shimmery, stainless steel, catching the eye and providing a practical solution that will match a wide variety of layouts and designs. Most people imagine a pristine cooktop or a conventional oven; however, range hoods are an important appliance that utilizes this material.

Let's review the basics; range hoods are installed in kitchens to remove unwanted steam, grease, heat, and odor, either extracting the byproducts through ductwork and expelling them into the outside air or recirculating them into the kitchen environment. While their function should always be the primary consideration, appearance also plays a significant role. In this article, we'll investigate stainless steel range hoods, their benefits, and drawbacks, as well as why they are a prime choice for any homeowner.  

A Detailed Overview Of Stainless Steel And Its Role In Appliances

Let's back up to the periodic table of elements from high school science class. Chromium, a common element, partially makes up the composition of stainless steel, complemented by additional properties such as nickel and nitrogen. Its alluring sheen is caused by the presence of a chromium oxide film, which prevents stains, resists corrosion, and bolsters a tough, formidable surface that can endure drastic temperature changes and daily wear and tear. Given the fact that stainless steel is a ubiquitous material in the interior design world, its resilience is what separates it from other materials.

Stainless steel contains oxygen, which is a crucial element in allowing its surface to heal upon enduring heat, weight, and stress from cooking or baking. Furthermore, the material's cleanliness factor is indicated in its name; "stainless" implies that stains, dirt, chemicals, and other elements do not alter the surface and can be easily removed and disinfected without sacrificing the integrity of the material. Stainless steel is most commonly found in environments like restaurants and hospitals, where sanitation is a top priority. Range hoods are no different, as they are a component of a kitchen that cannot be overlooked; they will only benefit from the incredibly versatile properties of stainless steel. On the contrary, stainless steel is an upfront expense that many homeowners are unwilling to make.

From costly models to steep installation fees, this price tag pushes away stainless-steel prospects; however, it's important to remember the material's longevity and life cycle. Although there is a higher out-of-pocket cost, stainless steel will last far longer than other materials due to its durability and adaptability to all environments. It is also a smart investment since the range hood will further add resale value to the home in years to come. One other minor drawback is related to aesthetics. Stainless steel range hoods are perfect for a modern space with a neutral color scheme, but they can sometimes look out of place in homes whose kitchens tout a more antiquated, rustic ambiance.

Where Can I Find A Stainless-Steel Range Hood And How Much Will It Cost Me?

Like most other range hoods, stainless steel models can be found in home goods stores, online manufacturers, and specialty kitchen outlets. Depending on the size, location, and model, it's important to consider professional installation to ensure proper function and appearance. The cheapest models can start upwards of $50, while expensive, luxurious hoods climb into the thousands. Still, at the end of the day, the most valuable investment for the homeowner will be to assess their current kitchen usage and needs to determine the most appropriate option.


CopperSmith partners with the world’s greatest artisans, manufacturers, and industry-leading brands to deliver the highest-quality sinks on the market. Browse our catalog to find the perfect addition to your kitchen and give us a call at 1-952-800-7606 for prompt and reliable customer service.

April 28, 2020