Kitchen Hoods

Kitchen Hood FAQs

Which cooker hood is suitable for frequent Malaysian cooking?

For frequent wok frying, sambal, curry or deep-frying, prioritise a hood that covers the full hob and captures fumes close to the cooking surface. Full-size chimney and slanted hoods are good options to compare. Please also check the filter design, ducting requirements, and noise level – not only the advertised suction figure.

Should I choose a ducted or recirculating cooker hood?

A ducted hood sends smoke and cooking odours outside, making it more suitable for frequent heavy cooking. A recirculating hood filters the air before releasing it back into the kitchen and is useful when external ducting is not possible. Confirm that your chosen model supports recirculation and whether a charcoal filter or conversion kit is required.

What cooker hood size should I choose?

Choose a cooker hood that is at least as wide as your hob. For example, a 60cm hob should use a hood measuring 60cm or wider. A 75cm or 90cm hood can provide broader coverage when space allows. Always check your cabinet opening and the product’s installation drawing before ordering.

Is a higher m³/h suction rating always better?

Not necessarily. Airflow is important, but performance also depends on the hood’s capture design, static pressure, duct diameter, duct length and number of bends. Noise at higher speeds should also be considered. The cooker hoods available from xam max kitchen have different duct sizes and installation requirements, so compare the complete specifications.

Does auto-clean or “filter-free” mean no cleaning is required?

No. Auto-clean, heat-clean and easy-clean features can reduce grease buildup or make maintenance easier, but the hood surface, oil tray and removable components may still require cleaning. Follow the care instructions for the specific model, as cleaning methods vary by brand and filter system.

How often should cooker hood filters be cleaned?

For kitchens that cook frequently, inspect the grease filter at least monthly and clean it when grease becomes visible. Charcoal filters used in recirculating hoods normally require replacement rather than washing. Only use a dishwasher when the product manual confirms that the filter is dishwasher-safe.

What should I check before installing a cooker hood?

Prepare your hob width, cabinet measurements, available hood height, power-point location and proposed duct route. Installation distance varies by hood and hob model, so follow both manufacturers’ instructions rather than applying one standard height to every product. You may send your measurements and kitchen photos to the xam max kitchen team for product and installation advice.