To measure for a range hood, record the width of your cooktop, the height from the cooking surface to the ceiling, the wall depth and the duct location. Four numbers cover most decisions. Installation, wiring and ducting should be done by a licensed professional.
Width Comes First
Measure the cooking surface edge to edge, then compare it with the hood’s width. Many people choose a hood that is the same width as the cooktop or a little wider, which helps catch rising steam at the sides. Write down the number in both inches and centimeters if you shop across sources.
Height and Mounting Space
Measure from the cooking surface up to the ceiling, and note any cabinets beside the hood. Makers publish a recommended mounting range above the cooktop in the installation guide, and it differs by model and fuel type. Do not guess this figure. Read the guide for the exact distance.
- Cooking surface to ceiling
- Cooking surface to the bottom of nearby cabinets
- Any soffit or bulkhead that could block the hood
Depth and Wall Details
Measure how far the hood will reach out from the wall, and make sure it clears a person’s head when they lean over the pots. Check what the wall is made of and whether studs sit where the mounting bracket needs support. This is something a licensed installer can confirm on site.
Duct Position and Vent Type
Look at where the existing duct leaves the wall or ceiling. Note its shape, round or rectangular, and approximate size. A hood that vents outside needs a clear path, while a recirculating one uses a filter and no duct. Measuring the duct opening helps you match the hood’s outlet.
| Measurement | Tool | Write down |
|---|---|---|
| Cooktop width | Tape measure | Edge to edge |
| Ceiling height | Tape measure | From cooking surface |
| Duct opening | Tape and photo | Shape and size |
It also helps to sketch the wall on paper and mark each figure on the drawing. A simple picture shows at a glance whether a tall chimney will fit under the ceiling, or whether a nearby window frame gets in the way. Share the sketch with the licensed professional who will visit, since it saves time on site and avoids surprises when the hood arrives. Keep the maker’s guide for the hood you like open beside your sketch so you can compare every number line by line.
FAQ
Should I measure twice?
Yes. Check each number two times on different days, and have someone hold the tape for long runs.
Can I install the hood myself?
Mounting, wiring and venting involve electricity and heavy parts, so use a licensed professional and follow the maker’s manual.
The Short Version
Note the cooktop width, the height to the ceiling, the wall depth and the duct opening. Compare those numbers with the maker’s guide, then hire a licensed professional for the install.