Telescoping Downdraft vs Island Hood

Posted on July 5th, 2020

By Darin Busey, Appliance Specialist, Germantown

When we talk about a Telescoping Downdraft or an Island Hood, we need to look at the space below the cooktop to see if a blower will fit into the cabinet space or above the cooktop for electrical and ductwork in the ceiling. Here we spend some time talking about the differences between 36” models of these two types of ventilation systems.

Telescoping Downdraft

Telescoping Downdraft venting is primarily used in kitchen islands or peninsulas - any place where a traditional hood might be difficult to install or a place where you don’t want to block your view. Downdrafts typically can rise above a cooktop anywhere from 8-19 inches and can have blower motors which can be internal (placed under the counter), in-line (placed in between the riser and the outdoor vent), or remote (motor is on the outside). These motors can vary from 200 CFM to 1600 CFM depending on the manufacturer.

Thermador is one of the original downdraft manufacturers. It is the only downdraft with a recirculating option when ducting to the exterior is not possible. The Thermador UCVM models rise well above even the tallest pots, including the Thermador Masterpiece 36” UCVM36FS which rises up to 14 inches to cover venting for large pots. This provides better performance in capturing steam and smoke even from the front burners, and offers additional protection against splatters while cooking. Full-face filters combine a filter and a splatter shield in one easy-to-remove, dishwasher-safe element. These filters maximize grease capture without affecting the unit’s airflow.

Downdraft recirculation is now available for island or wall applications. Combine the performance of the Thermador UCVM model downdrafts with the odor- and moisture-removing filters in the recirculation module for the perfect ventilation combination for any spot in your kitchen. Choose from 5 options of remote, inline, or integrated blowers. Sold separately, these blowers range from 600 CFM to 1200 CFM.

Island Hoods

It wasn’t until the early 1990’s that the European companies like Best and Zephyr started creating a handful of Island Hood designs in a myriad of styles. Now, some 30 years later, manufacture catalogs include a dedicated section to Island Hoods.

One of several Island Hoods is the Zephyr 36" Roma Model ZRME36DS Island Hood. It has been updated with a new low-profile 3" canopy height featuring the Roma's sleek shape which is ideal for a DIY home remodeler or builder. An easy installation system with magnetic duct covers allows for a quicker overall installation. The Roma features a powerful 600 CFM blower with the Airflow Control Technology (ACT), an exclusive Zephyr feature built into specific hoods which can limit the maximum blower CFM to meet local code requirements. Easy-trap stainless steel mesh filters are removable and can be placed in the top rack of a dishwasher. The unit also comes with LED lighting. A recirculating kit is available at an additional cost.

In general, Island Hoods can sometimes be a little more difficult to install if you don’t have power or ducting in place, creating unforeseen labor and materials expenses. If you already have a Downdraft Cooktop on an island, a telescoping downdraft might be a better option for your project.

Shop these two models below or check out our full line of telescoping downdraft and island hood ventilation systems.