Kitchen Downdraft Extractor

Downdraft extractors are still a relatively new invention in the world of cooker hoods. They largely work the same as all other extractors, but they have a very unique feature that makes them stand out. When not in use they are hidden away in the worktop, but at the touch of a button rise up behind the hob. This is why they’re also known as ‘rise and fall extractors’. Watch our video below to see these downdraft extractors in action:

The downdraft extractors are perfect for those of you aiming for a more minimalist look and feel because they don’t clutter the area when not in use. It’s also a perfect option for island kitchens, rather than suspending a large extractor above the island hob, the downdraft extractor keeps the area above the hob clear. This ensures that you keep the spacious look and feel of the kitchen without impacting on practicality. Small kitchens too, which are often feel cluttered by the cooker hood, can benefit from a downdraft extractor because they can be placed against walls behind hobs.

Planning ahead

It’s important to think about your extractor before you start building your kitchen, adding in a downdraft extractor is not as simple as changing your hob. Firstly, the unit needs to physically sit somewhere, it takes up a lot of space in the unit below where it’s being used. It’s important to select the right unit for the downdraft extractor and integrate this into your kitchen design. Secondly, you need to consider whether you’ll be extracting the air to outside or recirculating it through a filter. If extracting to the outside then you need to build the ducting into the plan and install it before the units are installed. For more information regarding recirculating or extracting air, please read our cooker hoods guide blog post.

Get in touch

If you’d like to speak to us about whether a downdraft extractor is right for your kitchen, or to get advice on any cooker hood, please give us a call on 01279 504230 or email info@designerkitchensforless.co.uk.