Is a Range Hood Necessary? What Homeowners Should Know About Code, Safety, and Value
Redfin News
by Freda NkrumahFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Is a range hood necessary? While building codes require mechanical ventilation in kitchens, they don’t always mandate a ducted range hood specifically. However, for gas stoves, a ducted system is crucial as it exhausts combustion byproducts outside, reducing fire risks and improving indoor air quality. Recirculating hoods, while cheaper to install, are less effective at removing pollutants and moisture, which can lead to long-term issues like grease buildup and poor ventilation.
The type of stove you use significantly impacts the necessity of a range hood. Gas stoves produce heat, moisture, and combustion byproducts that recirculating systems cannot remove effectively. This makes ducted hoods a safer choice for gas cooktops, as they vent these harmful substances outside, reducing fire hazards and improving indoor air quality. Local codes often require exterior venting when using gas appliances, further emphasizing the importance of ducted systems.
From a real estate perspective, proper ventilation can increase home value by making kitchens safer and more appealing to buyers. Inadequate ventilation can lead to inspection failures, delaying sales or requiring last-minute repairs. Ducted range hoods are not just an upgrade—they’re often a necessity for safety and efficiency, especially in homes with gas stoves.
Ultimately, while minimum code standards may suffice for some cases, prioritizing a well-designed ducted system ensures better performance, safety, and long-term savings. For homeowners, this means investing in a range hood that meets local codes and provides optimal ventilation, enhancing both home value and occupant safety.
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Originally published on Redfin News on 2/25/2026