Cut Through the Noise With a Quieter Through-Wall Kitchen Fan
The sizzle of food on the stove and clatter of pots and pans are familiar kitchen noises. But the loud roar of an overhead range hood on full blast is an unwelcome addition.
Through-the-wall kitchen exhaust fans offer a quieter alternative for venting smoke, grease and cooking odors outside your home. With the fan and ductwork concealed from view, these systems reduce noise in the kitchen for a more pleasant cooking experience.
How Exhaust Fans Reduce Kitchen Noise
Standard ceiling or chimney-mounted range hoods place the fan motor directly over the stove. This allows cooking fumes to be captured quickly, but the fan also competes with other kitchen sounds.
Through-the-wall fans work differently. The fan unit is installed outside the kitchen, often on an exterior wall or the roof. Ductwork runs from the range hood on your wall to the fan. Since the fan is distant, the noise level is reduced.
Factors That Contribute to Exhaust Fan Noise
Several things impact how loud through-the-wall fans are during operation:
- Fan motor quality - Higher grades are engineered for quieter performance.
- Fan speed settings - Running at higher speeds increases noise.
- Ducting - Rigid metal ducts deaden sound better than flexible plastic.
- Dampers - Adding a backdraft damper prevents sound from traveling back into the kitchen.
- Vent terminations - Roof caps directed away from your home disperse noise.
Selecting a Quiet Through-the-Wall Fan
You'll want to choose a fan rated for quiet operation. Noise levels are measured in sones, while loudness is measured in decibels (dB). Look for a through-the-wall fan with a sone rating of 1.0 or less on the lowest speed.
High-quality fans engineered for silent performance include:
- Vent-Axia LoWatt - 0.5 sones
- Broan QTR140 - 0.9 sones
- KitchenAid 600 CFM - 1.0 sones
Installing a multiple speed fan is recommended. This allows you to turn the fan down to lessen noise during light cooking tasks.
Installing Your Through-the-Wall Exhaust Fan
Proper installation is key to maximizing performance and energy efficiency. Here are a few best practices:
Choosing the Right CFM
CFM stands for "cubic feet per minute" and measures how much air the fan can exhaust. For a 10x10 foot kitchen with 8' ceilings, look for a fan with around 600 CFM. Size up for larger kitchens.
Venting the Fan Outside
Outdoor venting removes contaminants from your home. Run rigid metal ductwork through the wall or roof. Insulate ducts to prevent condensation and leaks.
Sealing Vents and Ductwork
Use metal tape and mastic to seal all joints and connections. Prevent air leaks around the hood and vents. Insulate wall and ceiling penetrations.
Wiring the Fan Properly
Follow local building codes for required GFCI electrical circuits. Keep wiring away from high heat areas. Install a separate switch to control the fan.
Maintaining Your Through-the-Wall Exhaust Fan
Regular maintenance keeps your exhaust system working properly. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidelines for filters and fan parts. Other tips include:
- Clean filters monthly to maintain airflow.
- Remove and wash filter panels and grease traps.
- Wipe down fan blades and housing.
- Inspect ducting and terminations for damage.
- Have an HVAC pro service the fan every 2-3 years.
The Benefits of Professional Maintenance
Qualified technicians have the tools and expertise to thoroughly clean all components and make necessary repairs. They can calibrate airflows, check electrical systems, and ensure optimal ventilation.
Through-the-wall kitchen exhaust fans provide an effective and quieter alternative to overhead range hoods. Choosing a high-quality fan engineered for silent operation helps reduce noise and makes cooking more enjoyable.
Proper sizing, installation, venting, and ductwork also contribute to fan noise levels. With some planning and periodic maintenance, a through-the-wall fan can clear the air without raising the volume in your kitchen.