If you want the convenience of effective ventilation and sleek design in your kitchen, a downdraft extractor hob might be the perfect solution. These hobs combine both cooking and air extraction into one integrated system, drawing smoke, steam, and odors downward through built-in ventilation, eliminating the need for an overhead range hood. Ideal for modern kitchens with islands or open floor plans, downdraft extractor hobs provide efficient cooking and effective air filtration while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. In this guide, we’ll explore the best downdraft extractor hobs, their features, benefits, and what to look for when choosing the right one for your kitchen.
What is a Downdraft Extractor Hob?
A downdraft extractor hob is a cooktop with an integrated ventilation system that pulls smoke, steam, and odors downward through a vent located behind or under the cooking surface. This type of hob combines the functions of a cooktop and a ventilation system into one unit, eliminating the need for a traditional overhead range hood. Downdraft extractor hobs are popular in kitchens with island cooktops or in homes where an overhead vent would disrupt the kitchen’s design.
Why Choose a Downdraft Extractor Hob?
Downdraft extractor hobs offer several advantages:
- Space-Saving: These hobs do not require a bulky overhead range hood, saving valuable kitchen space and providing a more open and airy design, especially in kitchen islands or open-concept spaces.
- Modern Aesthetic: Downdraft extractor hobs offer a sleek, minimalistic look, blending seamlessly into the countertop for a clean and modern appearance.
- Effective Ventilation: The built-in downdraft extraction system draws smoke, steam, and odors downwards and vents them out, keeping the kitchen air fresh while you cook.
- Quiet Operation: Downdraft extractor hobs are generally quieter than traditional overhead range hoods, making them a good option for kitchens where noise is a concern.
What to Look for in the Best Downdraft Extractor Hob
When choosing the best downdraft extractor hob for your kitchen, consider the following factors:
1. Ventilation Power (CFM)
The CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating indicates how powerful the downdraft ventilation system is. A higher CFM means better air extraction, which is essential for removing smoke and odors from your cooking area. Ideally, look for a hob with a CFM rating between 600 and 900 for optimal ventilation.
2. Size and Configuration
Downdraft extractor hobs come in different sizes, with 30-inch and 36-inch models being the most common. Choose a hob size that fits your kitchen and provides enough cooking capacity for your needs. Be sure to check the dimensions and installation requirements for the downdraft system to ensure it fits with your kitchen layout.
3. Cooking Performance
Cooking performance is key when choosing a downdraft extractor hob. Look for a model that offers powerful burners with multiple heat settings for precise cooking. Induction hobs are popular for their fast, energy-efficient cooking and precise temperature control, while gas hobs provide instant heat and flexibility.
4. Noise Level
Noise can be an important consideration, especially if you have an open-concept kitchen. Some downdraft extractor hobs operate more quietly than others. Look for models that advertise quiet operation or come with sound-dampening features to minimize noise during cooking.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Since the hob and ventilation system are integrated, look for a model that’s easy to clean. Smooth ceramic or glass surfaces are easier to wipe down. Also, check if the filters for the downdraft extractor are removable and dishwasher-safe for easy maintenance.
6. Price
Downdraft extractor hobs tend to be more expensive than traditional cooktops due to the added ventilation system. Prices can vary based on the size, features, and brand, so it’s important to choose a model that fits your budget while still meeting your cooking and ventilation needs.
Top 5 Best Downdraft Extractor Hobs
1. Bosch NITP068UC 30-Inch Induction Downdraft Extractor Hob
The Bosch NITP068UC is a 30-inch induction downdraft extractor hob that offers four induction cooking zones with precise temperature control. The built-in downdraft ventilation system has a 500 CFM rating, efficiently removing smoke and odors. This model is ideal for modern kitchens, offering fast and energy-efficient cooking along with a sleek, easy-to-clean design.
- Size: 30 inches
- Burners: 4 induction cooking zones
- Ventilation Power: 500 CFM
- Design: Sleek black glass with touch controls
- Features: Auto Chef function, flexible cooking zones
- Pros: Energy-efficient induction cooking, quiet ventilation, sleek design
- Cons: Lower CFM than some premium models
2. Thermador CIT36XKB 36-Inch Induction Downdraft Extractor Hob
The Thermador CIT36XKB is a premium 36-inch induction downdraft extractor hob featuring five cooking zones with the powerful FlexInduction technology. The integrated 600 CFM downdraft ventilation system effectively captures smoke and steam while you cook. With advanced features like Boost and PowerBoost for fast boiling, this hob is perfect for those who want both performance and style in their kitchen.
- Size: 36 inches
- Burners: 5 induction cooking zones
- Ventilation Power: 600 CFM
- Design: Black glass with a sleek, modern appearance
- Features: FlexInduction technology, Boost and PowerBoost functions
- Pros: High performance, energy-efficient, powerful ventilation
- Cons: Expensive
3. KitchenAid KICU509XBL 30-Inch Induction Downdraft Extractor Hob
The KitchenAid KICU509XBL is a 30-inch induction downdraft extractor hob with four induction cooking zones, including a 3,700-watt burner for high heat. The 600 CFM downdraft ventilation system effectively removes smoke and odors from the kitchen. The sleek black glass surface and easy-to-use touch controls make it a stylish and convenient option for modern kitchens.
- Size: 30 inches
- Burners: 4 induction cooking zones
- Ventilation Power: 600 CFM
- Design: Black glass with touch controls
- Features: Even-Heat technology, auto-sizing pans for perfect cooking
- Pros: Powerful induction cooking, sleek design, efficient ventilation
- Cons: Higher price point
4. Samsung NA75J3030AS 30-Inch Induction Downdraft Extractor Hob
The Samsung NA75J3030AS is a 30-inch induction downdraft extractor hob featuring four induction cooking zones and a 500 CFM downdraft system. This hob offers efficient and precise cooking with easy-to-use controls, while the downdraft system works quietly to remove smoke and odors. Its modern design and compact size make it an excellent choice for smaller kitchens.
- Size: 30 inches
- Burners: 4 induction cooking zones
- Ventilation Power: 500 CFM
- Design: Black glass with touch controls
- Features: Auto pan detection, precise temperature control
- Pros: Affordable, reliable performance, easy-to-clean
- Cons: Lower CFM rating compared to premium models
5. Bosch NITP068UC 30-Inch Induction Downdraft Extractor Hob
The Bosch NITP068UC offers four induction cooking zones and an integrated 500 CFM downdraft extractor system. This hob features precise temperature control and a quiet ventilation system. The modern, black glass surface is easy to clean, and the touch controls make it simple to adjust settings.
- Size: 30 inches
- Burners: 4 induction cooking zones
- Ventilation Power: 500 CFM
- Design: Sleek black glass with touch controls
- Features: Auto Chef function, flexible cooking zones
- Pros: Quiet operation, efficient cooking, stylish design
- Cons: Lower CFM than some models
Final Thoughts
Downdraft extractor hobs are perfect for modern kitchens where both style and performance are important. Whether you’re looking for a high-performance model like the Thermador CIT36XKB or a more budget-friendly option like the Samsung NA75J3030AS, these hobs offer efficient cooking and excellent ventilation. Consider factors like size, CFM, and your cooking preferences to find the best downdraft extractor hob for your kitchen.