Wandhaube

A Wandhaube, or wall-mounted range hood, is a kitchen appliance designed to remove heat, steam, smoke, and cooking odors from the area above a stove or cooktop. Its primary purpose is to improve indoor air quality and reduce grease deposits on surfaces and storage.

Most Wandhauben are mounted on the wall directly above the cooking area and feature a fan, grease filters, lighting, and a control panel. They are available in a range of finishes, commonly stainless steel or tempered glass, and may include built-in LED lighting to illuminate the cooking surface.

There are two main configurations: ducted and recirculating. Ducted models vent air to the outside through ductwork, offering higher extraction efficiency but requiring proper venting installation. Recirculating models filter air through grease filters and activated carbon filters before returning it to the room, which is easier to install where external venting is impractical but typically less effective at removing heat.

Installation considerations include the height above the cooktop, often in the range of 65 to 75 cm for electric stoves and a similar range for gas, as well as matching the hood width to the cooktop (commonly 60 cm or 90 cm). Noise levels and power vary with the motor size and speed settings, influencing comfort and performance.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning or replacement of grease and charcoal filters, cleaning of the exterior surfaces, and occasional inspection of the fan and ducts. Wandhauben are a common feature in modern kitchens, combining ventilation with lighting and aesthetic integration into kitchen design.