Uncover the Mystery: Is a Range Hood Mandatory in BC?

When it comes to kitchen design, range hoods are often an afterthought. However, they play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and protecting your home from harmful fumes and grease. In British Columbia, is range hood required by code? The answer is yes, and this blog post will delve into the specific requirements and provide all the necessary information you need to know.

BC Building Code Requirements

Section 9.15.1.1 of the BC Building Code clearly states that “Every kitchen shall be provided with a range hood.” This requirement applies to both residential and commercial kitchens. The range hood must be installed over the cooking appliances and must exhaust the cooking fumes and grease to the outdoors.

Types of Range Hoods

There are various types of range hoods available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common types:

• Under-cabinet range hoods: These are installed underneath the kitchen cabinets and are a popular choice for smaller kitchens.
• Wall-mounted range hoods: These are mounted on the wall above the cooking appliances and are more powerful than under-cabinet range hoods.
• Island range hoods: These are suspended from the ceiling over kitchen islands and are ideal for open-concept kitchens.
• Downdraft range hoods: These are installed in the countertop and draw cooking fumes downwards, which is a good option for kitchens with limited wall space.

Ventilation Requirements

The BC Building Code also specifies the minimum ventilation requirements for range hoods. The range hood must have a minimum exhaust capacity of 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM) for electric cooking appliances and 150 CFM for gas cooking appliances.

Installation Requirements

Range hoods must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the BC Building Code. Here are some key installation requirements:

• The range hood must be installed at least 24 inches above the cooking surface.
• The exhaust duct must be made of non-combustible material and must be at least 6 inches in diameter.
• The exhaust duct must be vented to the outdoors through a wall or roof vent.

Benefits of Range Hoods

Installing a range hood in your kitchen provides numerous benefits, including:

• Improved indoor air quality: Range hoods remove cooking fumes, smoke, and grease from the air, improving the overall air quality in your home.
• Reduced fire hazard: Cooking fumes can be flammable, and a range hood helps to reduce the risk of a kitchen fire.
• Protected walls and cabinets: Grease and smoke can damage walls and cabinets, but a range hood helps to protect them from these harmful substances.
• Increased energy efficiency: Range hoods can help to reduce energy costs by exhausting hot air and replacing it with cooler air from outside.

When is a Range Hood Not Required?

There are a few exceptions to the BC Building Code requirement for range hoods. A range hood is not required if:

• The kitchen is less than 100 square feet in area.
• The cooking appliances are located in a separate room from the kitchen.
• The cooking appliances are used infrequently (less than once a week).

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the minimum ventilation capacity required for a range hood in BC?

A: The minimum ventilation capacity required is 100 CFM for electric cooking appliances and 150 CFM for gas cooking appliances.

Q: Can I install a range hood myself?

A: It is recommended to hire a qualified contractor to install a range hood, as improper installation can lead to safety hazards.

Q: How often should I clean my range hood?

A: You should clean your range hood regularly, especially if you cook frequently. The frequency of cleaning will depend on how often you use it.