How To Vent A Range Hood Through A Side Wall? Quick Guide 2023

It is best to remove an old range hood from your kitchen and install a new range hood according to your liking, such as through the ceiling, roof, or side wall. I’ll show you the steps on how to vent a range hood through a side wall in the easiest possible way. In any kitchen, a range hood serves as a vital component, adept at removing smoke, odors, and grease particles, thereby ensuring a pleasant cooking environment.

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How To Vent a Range Hood Through a Side Wall | Step-By-Step Guide

Properly venting your range hood through a side wall can create a comfortable cooking environment by effectively removing smoke, odors, and grease particles from the air, enhancing air quality in your kitchen.

So, how to vent a range hood through a side wall? By following the step-by-step installation process and regularly maintaining your range hood vent, you can enjoy a clean and efficient cooking space with optimal performance and functionality.

Read More: How To Vent A Range Hood Through A Roof?

Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools

Before diving into the installation process, it is paramount to assemble all the necessary materials and tools. This strategic gathering ensures a seamless and efficient installation. Here’s a comprehensive list of items you’ll need:

Range hood: Choose a model that fits your kitchen’s ventilation needs and aesthetic preferences, ensuring it aligns with the space available.
Ductwork: Select flexible or rigid ducts based on the size of the range hood. The duct’s size depends on the hood’s dimensions.
Vent cap: This external component allows expelled air to exit while preventing water and pests from entering the duct. Choose a cap compatible with your ductwork.
Screws and anchors: Secure the vent cap and ductwork to the side wall, selecting appropriate screws and anchors for the wall material.
Tape measure: Precisely measure distances for cutting the side wall hole and placing the vent cap.
Level: Ensure the vent cap and ductwork are installed straight and level for optimal functionality.
Hacksaw or reciprocating saw: Use for cutting the hole in the side wall for the vent cap.
Pencil or marker: Mark measurements and cutting lines on the side wall.
Power drill: Create pilot holes for screws and anchors.
Sheet metal screws: Secure ductwork to the range hood.
Duct tape or foil tape: Seal connections to prevent air leaks.

Step 2: Determine the Placement of the Range Hood Vent

Before initiating any physical alterations, pinpointing the ideal placement of the range hood vent is paramount. Several considerations influence this decision:

Distance from the range: To effectively capture and remove smoke, odors, and grease particles, position the vent directly above the cooking surface. A distance of 24 to 30 inches from the cooktop surface is generally deemed ideal.
Obstructions: Carefully consider existing obstructions within the wall, such as electrical wires, plumbing pipes, or structural elements. Opt for a location that minimizes the need for extensive modifications or rerouting of these elements.
Exterior considerations: The aesthetic appeal of the vent cap on the exterior of your home is significant. Opt for a location that not only functions well but also offers a visually appealing and functional vent cap installation.
Code requirements: Always adhere to local building codes and regulations. Ensure compliance with specific requirements for range hood vent placement, as some jurisdictions may have guidelines regarding the distance from windows or doors.

Step 3: Mark and Cut the Hole in the Side Wall

Now that the optimal placement is established, it’s time to mark and cut the hole in the side wall. This orifice facilitates the installation of the vent cap, serving as the point of exit for air expelled by the range hood. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Measure the dimensions of the vent cap: Utilize a tape measure to ascertain the dimensions of the vent cap. These measurements dictate the size of the hole you need to cut.
Mark the center point of the hole: Determine the desired distance from the range and align it with the markings on the side wall to pinpoint the center point.
Mark the borders of the hole: Using the vent cap’s measured dimensions, mark the borders of the hole on the side wall. Double-check measurements for accuracy.
Cut the hole: Employ a reciprocating saw or keyhole saw for wooden or drywall side walls. Carefully cut along the marked lines. If dealing with a brick or masonry side wall, use a masonry drill bit to drill holes along the markings, and then use a chisel and hammer to remove the bricks or masonry.
Check the size and shape of the hole: Ensure the hole matches the dimensions of the vent cap. Make necessary adjustments or modifications if required.

Step 4: Install the Vent Cap on the Side Wall

Having successfully cut the hole, the next phase involves installing the vent cap on the exterior wall. The vent cap acts as the external facet of the range hood vent, permitting air to exit while preventing water and pests from entering the duct. The installation process unfolds as follows:

Position the vent cap: Align the vent cap over the hole on the exterior wall, ensuring it is level. Use a level for precision.
Trace the outline: With the vent cap positioned, trace its outline onto the exterior wall using a pencil or marker. This serves as a guide for installation.
Create pilot holes: Using a power drill, create pilot holes within the traced outline. These holes simplify the insertion of screws or anchors into the wall.
Secure the vent cap: Line up the vent cap with the outline and secure it to the wall using screws or anchors. Tighten them securely for a firm attachment.
Inspect the installation: After securing the vent cap, inspect the installation to ensure it is properly aligned and secure.

Follow any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer during the installation of the vent cap. Different models may have variations in installation methods. With the vent cap securely in place, progress to the next step: connecting the ductwork to the range hood.

Step 5: Connect the Ductwork to the Range Hood

The vent cap is now installed, and attention turns to connecting the ductwork to the range hood. The ductwork facilitates the transport of expelled air from the range hood to the vent cap on the exterior wall. Execute the following steps for a successful connection:

How To Connect the Ductwork to the Range Hood

Locate the exhaust opening: Identify the exhaust opening on the range hood, where the ductwork will be connected. Ensure the range hood is turned off and unplugged.
Measure the diameter: Measure the diameter of the exhaust opening to determine the appropriate size of the ductwork.
Cut the ductwork: Using a hacksaw or reciprocating saw, cut the ductwork to the desired length.
Place the ductwork over the exhaust opening: Position the cut end of the ductwork over the exhaust opening on the range hood.
Secure the connection: Use sheet metal screws to fasten the ductwork to the range hood securely. Ensure a tight connection to prevent air leaks.

Inspect the connection to guarantee it is properly aligned and secure. It is crucial to use the correct size of ductwork to ensure optimal airflow and ventilation. Seal the connection between the ductwork and the range hood with duct tape or foil tape to prevent air leaks. This meticulous attention to detail maintains the efficiency of the ventilation system. With the ductwork connected, move on to securing it to the side wall.

Read More: How Many Amps Does A Range Hood Use?

Step 6: Secure the Ductwork to the Side Wall

Securing the ductwork to the side wall is pivotal to maintaining its position and ensuring a steady connection between the range hood and the vent cap. Adhere to the following steps for a secure ductwork installation:

Position the ductwork: Place the ductwork against the side wall, ensuring alignment with the previously cut hole.
Mark the points for securing: Use a pencil or marker to mark points on the side wall where the ductwork will be secured.
Create pilot holes: Employ a power drill to create pilot holes on the marked points. These holes serve as entry points for screws or anchors.
Align and secure: Align the ductwork with the holes and insert screws or anchors through the ductwork into the side wall. Tighten them securely to hold the ductwork in place.
Continue securing along its length: Proceed to secure the ductwork along its length, adding additional screws or anchors as necessary to maintain a secure connection.

Step 7: Test the Range Hood Ventilation System

Upon completing the installation of the range hood vent through the side wall, it is imperative to test the ventilation system to ensure proper functionality. Testing identifies potential issues and ensures the effective expulsion of air. Follow these steps for a comprehensive test:

Turn on the range hood: Set the range hood to the highest fan speed.
Observe the airflow: Examine the airflow emanating from the vent cap on the exterior wall. It should be robust and steady.
Check for air leaks or vibrations: Look for signs of air leaks or vibrations in the ductwork. If detected, use duct tape or foil tape to seal the connections.
Monitor the kitchen: Observe the kitchen for lingering smoke, odors, or steam. The range hood should effectively remove these elements from the air.
Listen for unusual sounds: Pay attention to any unusual sounds or rattling from the range hood or ductwork. Address any issues discovered during this phase. Now you know the answer – how to vent a range hood through a side wall?

Conclusion

If you are satisfied with the performance of the range hood ventilation system, congratulations on a successful installation. However, if any issues arise during testing, troubleshooting may be necessary. Verify that the ductwork is properly sealed, the connections are secure, and there are no obstructions impeding airflow.

Routine cleaning and maintenance of the range hood and ductwork are essential for optimal performance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to clean or replace filters, preventing grease buildup and maintaining proper airflow. I hope now you know “how to vent a range hood through a side wall?”