Guide for Installing a Kitchen Extraction Fan: Detailed Instructions and Expert Advice
Installing a Ducted Kitchen Extractor Fan: A Step-by-Step Guide
A ducted kitchen extractor fan is an effective solution for removing cooking fumes and odours from your home. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to install one safely and efficiently.
Step 1: Choose the Duct Route
Select a short, straight path for the ductwork to vent outside directly through a wall or roof. Avoid studs, plumbing, or wiring to ensure safe and efficient airflow.
Step 2: Measure Carefully
Measure the duct opening on the extractor fan and the wall or ceiling hole where it will exit. Typical duct diameters are 6″ or 7″. Use a tape measure and double-check all dimensions to prevent errors.
Step 3: Prepare Tools and Materials
- Cordless drill and drill bits
- Sheet metal screws
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Duct pipes (rigid or flexible metal ducting)
- Duct adapter (if needed)
- Duct tape or caulk for sealing
- Exterior vent cap with backdraft damper
- Safety gloves, goggles, dust mask
Step 4: Attach Duct Adapter to Extractor Fan
If not already attached, connect a duct adapter collar to the fan’s outlet. Secure with 2-3 sheet metal screws using a drill for firm attachment.
Step 5: Install Ductwork
Attach duct pipes from the fan collar to the exterior vent hole. Use minimal bends to maintain airflow. Secure all duct connections with screws and seal gaps with duct tape or caulk to prevent air leaks.
Step 6: Cut Hole for External Vent
Create a hole in the wall or roof for the duct termination vent cap. Fit the vent cap outside to prevent backdrafts and animal entry. Securely fix the vent cap in place.
Step 7: Mount and Connect the Extractor Fan
Fix the extractor fan to the kitchen wall or under the cabinet per manufacturer instructions. Connect the electrical wiring, ensuring power is turned off before handling wires. Ground the fan securely and check wiring conforms to electrical codes. If unsure, have a qualified electrician perform this step.
Step 8: Test the System
Turn the power on, verify the fan runs smoothly without unusual noise, and confirm efficient air extraction and venting outside.
Safety Precautions:
- Always disconnect power at the circuit breaker before electrical work.
- Avoid damage to existing power, water lines, or gas pipes when cutting ducts or holes.
- Use protective gear (gloves, goggles, dust mask) to guard against injury and dust.
- Ensure electrical connections comply with local codes; consult a qualified electrician if needed.
- Use appropriate wire type (e.g., THHN wiring) and secure wiring to prevent damage and avoid running through hazardous areas.
This comprehensive approach ensures a proper, safe installation of a ducted kitchen extractor fan with efficient ventilation to the outside. It's important to remember that installing a ducted extractor fan may create dust and mess, so be prepared to clean up afterwards. If you are not certain about the electrical connections, it's always best to hire an electrician to complete the task. Attach mounting brackets to the wall using screws and wall plugs, ensuring they are level. Most extractors need to be permanently plugged into a mains power outlet. Drilling the vent hole for ducted extractors requires an SDS drill with a diamond core drill bit. The bit should be fractionally wider than the ducting. Installing a kitchen extractor fan can be a satisfying and money-saving measure for some DIYers. A ducted extractor requires creating a circular hole in the external wall or ceiling for air to travel through the ducting and out of the room. Tools needed for installing a kitchen extractor fan include an SDS drill, combi drill, masonry drill bits, laser level, tape measure, pencil, hammer, extractor unit, ducting kit or cooker hood termination kit (if ducted), sealant (if ducted), screws, wall plugs, duct tape, gloves, goggles, ear protection, and a step ladder. Installing a ducted extractor may require an electrician to add a suitable socket to the kitchen's circuitry. Connect the ducting (if present) to the extractor using duct tape and/or clamps, then lift the extractor into place on the brackets, and tighten up any screws or other fixings. Installing a kitchen extractor fan system (either recirculating or ducted) will ensure your kitchen has cleaner air and is less susceptible to formation of mildew and mould, and accumulation of grease on surfaces.
- The ducted kitchen extractor fan should have a short, straight duct route that vents outside, avoiding any studs, plumbing, or wiring to ensure safe and efficient airflow.
- Suitable tools for a ducted kitchen extractor fan installation include a drill, duct pipes, a duct adapter, duct tape or caulk, an exterior vent cap, safety gear, and a tape measure.
- Proper planning and measurement is essential, measuring the duct opening on the extractor fan and the wall or ceiling hole where it will exit.
- A ducted kitchen extractor fan requires ventilation for efficient air extraction, so a hole should be cut in the wall or roof for the duct termination vent cap.
- The design of a ducted system includes ductwork from the fan collar to the exterior vent hole, with as few bends as possible to maintain airflow.
- To properly install the fan, homeowners may need to consider heating, ventilation, and energy regulations while planning the system.
- After completing the installation, checks should be made to ensure the fan runs smoothly, with no unusual noise, and air is effectively extracted and vented outside.
- The lifestyle benefits of installing a ducted kitchen extractor fan include cleaner air, reduced mould and mildew, and less grease accumulation, enhanced by proper design, planning, and following safety regulations.
