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The 6 Best Downdraft Ventilation Systems: A Comprehensive Review

In kitchen appliances, downdraft ventilation systems are near the top of the list when it comes to convenience and energy efficiency.

They can be installed in both new and existing homes, making them one of the best options for home remodeling projects in the future or if you just want to improve your current kitchen layout.

However, keep in mind that selecting the best downdraft vent for your kitchen can be overwhelming with the unlimited choices in the market.

But worry not. We’ve done your homework and compiled six of the best downdraft vents, along with a detailed guide that will help you select the best downdraft range that will sit well with your kitchen needs.

6 Best Downdraft Range Hood

1. Broan 273603 Eclipse 36”

Broan Ventilators are designed to provide ventilation and circulate air in your kitchen while cooking. And the Broan 273603 Eclipse is no exception.

With a sleek, trim design to complement your cooktop, this ventilator is designed to take up less space than any other downdraft ventilator on the market.

Made from high-quality satin aluminum, this downdraft vent is sure to withstand the test of time. The Broan 273603 Eclipse Ventilator has a 500 CFM ceiling ventilation fan that circulates air and helps remove unwanted odors from your kitchen space.

Moreover, it is Equipped with a 36-inch-wide reach, one-touch button start, two washable aluminum grease filters, and an infinitely adjustable variable speed slide control on the side of the unit.

The vents seamlessly disappear when not in use and only appear when in use to keep an aesthetically pleasing kitchen appearance.

Pros

  • It comes with a 500CFM interior blower
  • Has washable aluminum grease filters
  • Compatible with different cooktops
  • Boasts of a space-saving design
  • Available in different sizes

Cons

  • It can be pretty noisy when in use
  • This downdraft may not withstand the test of time

2. Broan 283603 36″ Eclipse

Are you looking for the best downdraft vent system in the market? If yes, then the Broan 283603 36″ Eclipse should be your go-to option.

This space-saving cooktop fan will seamlessly turn your kitchen dreams into reality by improving your cooking and cleaning efficiency.

This well-designed downdraft vent features durable steel construction, space for installation, and adjustable vents that rise as high as 7 inches from the cooktop.

It boasts of an ergonomic design, slim silhouette, and a simple yet sophisticated aesthetic that ensures it complements any kitchen it sits in.

On the flip side, some users may find this downdraft vent to be less convenient since some of its accessories may require a separate purchase.

Pros

  • Comes with washable filters
  • Compatible with various cooktops
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Space-saving design

Cons

  • Some parts may require a separate purchase
  • Some users may find it to be quite flimsy

3. Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36″

Are you looking for a downdraft ventilation system to keep up with your ever-growing ventilation needs? If yes, then the Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36″ downdraft vent is an ideal option.

With an impressive 500 CFM internal blower, this downdraft vent efficiently eliminates odors and smoke from cooking and automatically adjusts its blowers for optimal performance when the heat turns up!

With a height of only 29 1/2 inches from the ceiling or island top, this model provides unbeatable functionality in tight spaces!

In addition, it features an automatic heat sensor that automatically adjusts the fan speed based on room temperature and four settings for manual fan speeds so you can control how quickly your room heats up when desired.

Pros

  • Automatic heat sensor
  • Auto delay shut off function
  • Comes with 500 CFM
  • Has a sleek stainless-steel finish

Cons

  • Some users may find it to be quite noisy when in use

4. Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3004 30”

Are you shopping for the best downdraft range hood that will not only sit well with your limited cooking area? If yes, then the Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3004 30” is an excellent choice.

Not only does it boasts of a compact design that allows you to install it directly behind your cooktop. But it also comes with an inbuilt chimney that rises over 9-1/2 inches high when activated and is ideal for large pots and pans.

The Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3004 30” downdraft vent comes with an infinitely adjustable control that allows one to adjust the blower speed easily to maintain an effective and quiet operation while cooking.

Pros

  • Comes with variable controls
  • Has Compact design
  • Boasts of a quiet operation
  • It comes with safe dishwasher filters

Cons

  • This downdraft extractor may not sit well with large cooking areas

5. Best D49M36SB

Quiet, efficient, and reliable are terms that best describe the Best D49M36SB.

It comes packed with different features that make cooking a breeze. It boasts of an integral self-closing cap that ensures unobstructed visibility.

With a Heat SentryTM detecting excessive temperature, this cattura downdraft vent will automatically adjust its speed from low to high, preventing any damaging effects from heat and increasing its longevity while also reducing utility costs.

Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that this unit also comes with a remote control that allows one to operate the downdraft from different locations in your kitchen. So, if you’re looking for the best cattura downdraft vent, then the Best D49M36SB should be your go-to option.

Pros

  • Comes with an LED task lighting
  • Remote control feature available
  • Works with optional Automatic Make-Up Air Dampers
  • Built-in heat sentry function
  • Comes with safe dishwasher filters

Cons

  • Some users may find its instruction manual to be quite vague

6. Broan-NuTone 283003 Eclipse Telescopic

Suppose you’re looking for the best downdraft range hood that is designed to be paired with a blower and can be installed on a kitchen island or peninsula countertop.

In that case, the Broan-NuTone 283003 Eclipse Telescopic is an outstanding option.

This downdraft vents compatibility ensures installation versatility for a seamless look, automatically raising into position when needed and disappearing flush after use.

It also features two dishwasher-safe aluminum filters and a front access panel which offers easy cleaning and maintains optimum grease capture.

Despite being one of the downdraft range hoods on our list, this unit falls short when it comes to quiet operations, which may not sit well with some users.

Pros

  • Compact and space-saving design
  • Durable stainless-steel construction
  • Easy to use control panel
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It might be pretty noisy when in use

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Downdraft Vent

Here are some of the essential factors that you should consider when selecting a downdraft vent.

Extra Accessories

Ducting filters, motors, and kits are part and parcel of any ventilation system.

However, when shopping for different models, it’s always wise to consult your technician to see whether you will need them or not.  If they will be required during the installation, it’s time to consider whether or not they are included in the purchase.

For instance, if you prefer your appliance to recirculate the heat, you will be required to purchase a separate filter separately.

On the other hand, if you settle for a downdraft vent that does not recirculate heat, then you may be required to purchase a ducting kit.

Noise Level

When selecting your ideal downdraft vent, it’s always advisable to consider whether it has a noisy or quieter operation when in use. Keep in mind that noise is usually measured in decibels.

And usually, the noise level of any ventilation system is typically depicted when the appliance is at its maximum setting.

Extraction Rate

Last but not least, you should always consider evaluating the extraction rate of your preferred unit.

The extraction rate is typically measured at meters cubed per hour (m3h)  when the ventilation unit is at its maximum setting. With that in mind, always consider the size of the room the downdraft vent will be installed and your cooking preferences.

But to be on the safe side, it’s always advisable to settle on a downdraft vent that comes with a high extraction rate.

FAQs on Downdraft Vents

What is a downdraft Vent?

Downdraft vent is a type of kitchen exhaust unit that is motorized to rise up next to your cooking space. They are normally rectangular in shape and thin in appearance.

Downdraft vents are generally equipped with fans with a fan speed of 500-700 cfm and led lighting that adds a touch of illumination to your cooking area.

How do downdraft ranges work?

A downdraft range works by removing smoke, fumes, heat, and odors from your kitchen by drawing air up through your oven or cooktop and channeling it back out through a built-in vent.

It’s an inverted vent that draws air down instead of pushing it up, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens with small windows.

Is a downdraft vent necessary?

Well, this depends on your venting needs.

If you’re looking for a ventilation system that integrates seamlessly with your worktop and doesn’t require too much space or complex installation, then a downdraft vent may suit your needs and vice versa.

Do downdraft ranges need to be vented?

Yes and no. However, before you vent your downdraft range, it’s always advisable to refer back to the manufacturer’s guidelines and see whether or not it’s recommended for you to vent your downdraft range.

Which is better, downdraft or updraft?

Both downdraft and updraft vents are suitable for bringing cool air into your kitchen space but have slightly different features and applications, so let’s compare them!

An updraft vent works by drawing cool air from underneath your counter space and circulating it around your kitchen. These vents are very energy efficient, and they do an excellent job of bringing in the fresh air and expelling stale air.

When using an updraft vent, it’s essential to ensure that you have an adequate floor plan so that hot air can be effectively circulated throughout your kitchen area. These vents work best in large rooms with ample vertical space for suction to occur naturally.

One of the most significant drawbacks to updraft venting is its inability to handle high temperatures.

On the other hand, downdraft vents work by drawing warm air down from above and creating a current that circulates through your kitchen.

These vents rely on ceiling fans or carefully crafted passive vent designs to pull air down. Since they create a downward flow of cooler air, downdraft vents are excellent at handling hot summer days when your kitchen gets extra warm from cooking.

Is downdraft ventilation effective

Yes. Downdraft ventilation is effective when it comes to eliminating grease odors and smoke from the kitchen.

However, it’s always advisable to consider the size of your ventilation needs before investing in a downdraft ventilation system.

Who makes the best downdraft ventilation?

There you have it, Our best reviews of the best downdraft vents in the market. It’s not doubt that Broan makes the best downdraft ventilation.

If we’re to pick an overall winner from our options, we will go for the Broan 273603 36″ Eclipse downdraft vent. With a sleek, trim design to complement your cooktop, this ventilator is designed to take up less space than any other downdraft ventilator on the market.

The Broan 273603 Eclipse Ventilator has a 500 CFM ceiling ventilator fan that circulates air and helps remove unwanted odors from your kitchen space.

I’m Jennifer Schlette, a Registered Dietitian and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. I love cooking, reading, and my kids! Here you’ll find the healthiest recipes & substitutions for your cooking. Enjoy, and be well, friends!

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