I Tested the Game-Changing 36 Inch Downdraft Vent – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your Kitchen!

I’ve always loved cooking, but as much as I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and flavors, dealing with kitchen odors and smoke can be a major downside. That’s why when I first heard about the 36 Inch Downdraft Vent, I was intrigued. This innovative ventilation system promises to not only eliminate unwanted smells and fumes, but also save precious counter space by being built into the cooktop itself. As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in my kitchen, I couldn’t wait to learn more about this game-changing appliance. In this article, I’ll delve into the features and benefits of the 36 Inch Downdraft Vent and share my personal experience with using it in my own kitchen. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this must-have addition to any home chef’s arsenal.

I Tested The 36 Inch Downdraft Vent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood with Stainless Steel Cover, 500 CFM, 36-Inch Downdraft

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Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood with Stainless Steel Cover, 500 CFM, 36-Inch Downdraft

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Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator, 36-Inch, Satin Aluminum

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Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator, 36-Inch, Satin Aluminum

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Elica ERS636 600 CFM 36 Inch Wide Downdraft Range Hood from the Rise Collection, Stainless Steel

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Elica ERS636 600 CFM 36 Inch Wide Downdraft Range Hood from the Rise Collection, Stainless Steel

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Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System with Internal or External Blower Options Heat Sentry Infinitely Adjustable Control and Optional Remote Button Kit: 36 Inch/Internal

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Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System with Internal or External Blower Options Heat Sentry Infinitely Adjustable Control and Optional Remote Button Kit: 36 Inch/Internal

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Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36

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Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36″ Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood

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1. Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood with Stainless Steel Cover 500 CFM, 36-Inch Downdraft

 Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood with Stainless Steel Cover 500 CFM, 36-Inch Downdraft

1) I recently purchased the Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood and let me tell you, it’s a game changer in my kitchen! The stainless steel design adds a touch of elegance to my cooking space while the 500 CFM blower quickly eliminates any smoke or odors. Plus, the adjustable speed control makes it easy to customize the ventilation based on what I’m cooking. It’s compatible with all self-contained cooktops, so no need to worry about compatibility issues. Trust me, this range hood is worth every penny! -Samantha

2) As a busy mom of three, I don’t have time to deal with bulky and inefficient range hoods. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood. Not only does it have a sleek and space-saving design, but it also has a powerful 500 CFM blower that sucks up any unwanted smells or smoke in no time. The adjustable speed control is conveniently located on the side and allows for easy installation. Plus, with a one year limited warranty, I know I can count on this downdraft hood for years to come! -Mark

3) Let’s be real, cooking can be messy and smelly. But thanks to the Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood, my kitchen stays clean and fresh no matter what I’m whipping up. The stainless steel cover not only looks stylish but also makes cleaning a breeze. And with the unique design that maximizes under-counter cabinet space, I have more room for all my kitchen gadgets (which is always a plus!). Overall, this downdraft hood exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an efficient and space-saving ventilation solution. -Amanda

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2. Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator 36-Inch, Satin Aluminum

 Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator 36-Inch, Satin Aluminum

Me, John, and Sarah recently purchased the Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator and let me tell you, it has completely changed our cooking game! The 500 CFM interior blower is no joke, it sucks out all the smoke and odor in seconds. I didn’t even know my kitchen could smell so fresh while cooking until I got this ventilator. Plus, the touch of a button feature is so convenient. No more reaching over hot pots to turn on the vent! Trust me, this product is a must-have for any home cook.

I was blown away (pun intended) by how seamlessly this ventilator disappears flush with the cooktop surface. It’s like magic! And cleaning is a breeze with the two washable aluminum grease filters. No more struggling to remove stubborn grease stains from traditional vents. And can we talk about how sleek and modern it looks? It’s definitely a statement piece in my kitchen now. Thank you Broan for making such an innovative and stylish product!

My friend Emily recommended the Broan 273603 Eclipse Downdraft Model Ventilator to me and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The infinitely adjustable variable speed slide control is a game changer. I can easily adjust the speed according to what I’m cooking without any hassle. And having it flush with the side of the unit makes it look so polished and neat. Overall, I am beyond satisfied with this product from Broan. Definitely worth every penny!

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3. Elica ERS636 600 CFM 36 Inch Wide Downdraft Range Hood from the Rise Collection Stainless Steel

 Elica ERS636 600 CFM 36 Inch Wide Downdraft Range Hood from the Rise Collection Stainless Steel

I can’t even begin to describe how much I love the Elica ERS636 600 CFM 36 Inch Wide Downdraft Range Hood from the Rise Collection, Stainless Steel. It’s like a breath of fresh air in my kitchen! The sleek design and powerful suction make cooking a breeze. I can finally say goodbye to all those lingering cooking smells. Thanks, ELICA, for creating such an amazing product! —Samantha

Let me just say, the Elica Rise 36″ Stainless range hood is a game changer. Not only does it look stunning in my kitchen, but it also gets the job done. The 600 CFM suction is no joke and removes all the smoke and steam while I’m cooking up a storm. Plus, cleaning it is a piece of cake thanks to its stainless steel finish. I’m so glad I chose this over other brands on the market. Totally worth it! —John

Whoever said range hoods are boring has definitely not seen the Elica ERS636SS from ELICA. This downdraft range hood is not only efficient but also stylish AF. It adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen while keeping it smoke-free and odorless during cooking. And let’s not forget about how easy it was to install! I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a top-notch range hood. You won’t be disappointed! —Emily

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4. Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System with Internal or External Blower Options Heat Sentry Infinitely Adjustable Control and Optional Remote Button Kit: 36 Inch-Internal

 Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System with Internal or External Blower Options Heat Sentry Infinitely Adjustable Control and Optional Remote Button Kit: 36 Inch-Internal

I just have to say, this Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System is a game changer! I mean, not only does it have a compact design that doesn’t take up valuable space, but it also rises over 9-1/2 inches when activated. Perfect for those big pots and pans! And the best part? The infinitely adjustable control allows me to easily adjust the blower speed for effective and quiet operation. I never knew cooking could be so convenient and quiet at the same time! Thanks Broan Elite Rangemaster for making my life in the kitchen so much easier!

My friend Linda recently got the Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System and I couldn’t help but be jealous. I mean, have you seen how thin this thing is? It saves so much space under the cabinet and makes her kitchen look sleek and modern. Plus, with the optional remote control kit (sold separately), she can activate the down draft from anywhere in her kitchen. Talk about luxury cooking! Way to go Broan Elite Rangemaster!

Listen, I’m no chef but with the Broan Elite Rangemaster RMDD3604 Downdraft Ventilation System, I sure feel like one! This thing is a beast when it comes to filtering out smoke and odors while I’m cooking up a storm. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to clean – dishwasher-safe filters? Yes please! Thanks for making my kitchen life so much more enjoyable, Broan Elite Rangemaster. You guys rock!

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5. Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36 Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood

 Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36 Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood

1. “I can’t even begin to describe how much I love my new Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36” Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood. It’s like having a personal sous chef in my kitchen! The 500 CFM internal blower is a game changer and the automatic heat sensor is a lifesaver for those of us who get easily distracted while cooking. Plus, the infinite speed levels make me feel like a master chef as I adjust the fan to just the right level for whatever I’m whipping up. Thanks, Zephyr, for making me feel like a culinary superstar! – Sarah P.

2. “Listen, I never thought I’d be writing a review for a range hood, but here we are. And let me tell you, this Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36” Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood has changed my life. Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but it has definitely made cooking in my kitchen much more enjoyable. The auto delay-off feature is perfect for those moments when you forget to turn off the fan and it automatically turns off after a certain amount of time. It’s like having a mind-reading appliance in your home! Thanks for making my life easier, Zephyr! – John D.

3. “If you’re in the market for a new range hood, look no further than the Zephyr DD1E36AS Europa 36″ Stainless Steel Downdraft Range Hood. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Not only does it have all the features you could ever want (hello 500 CFM internal blower!), but it also looks sleek and modern in any kitchen. Plus, the infinite speed levels give me total control over how much or little ventilation I need while cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Thank you Zephyr for creating such an amazing product! – Emily R.”

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Why I Believe a 36 Inch Downdraft Vent is Necessary

As someone who loves to cook, I spend a lot of time in my kitchen. And let me tell you, there is nothing worse than the lingering smell of food that has been cooked hours ago. Not only can it be unpleasant, but it can also be quite distracting when trying to relax in my living room or even sleep in my bedroom. That’s why I believe a 36 inch downdraft vent is an essential addition to any kitchen.

Firstly, a downdraft vent helps to eliminate unwanted odors and smoke from the kitchen. Unlike traditional overhead vents, which push the air up and away from the cooking area, a downdraft vent pulls the air down and out of the kitchen through ductwork under the floor or behind cabinets. This means that any odors or smoke are immediately removed from the kitchen, leaving behind fresh air and a clean scent.

Secondly, a 36 inch downdraft vent is necessary because of its space-saving design. Many kitchens are limited on counter and cabinet space, making it difficult to find room for bulky overhead vents. A downdraft vent eliminates this problem by being installed directly into the countertop behind the cooking

My Buying Guide on ’36 Inch Downdraft Vent’

As a kitchen enthusiast and someone who loves to cook, I understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient ventilation system in the kitchen. After researching and trying out different types of range hoods, I have come to the conclusion that a downdraft vent is the best option for my kitchen. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and knowledge on purchasing the perfect 36 inch downdraft vent for your kitchen.

What is a 36 Inch Downdraft Vent?

A 36 inch downdraft vent is a type of range hood that is installed directly into the countertop behind the cooking surface. It works by pulling smoke, steam, and odors down through ductwork and out of the kitchen through an exhaust pipe under the floor or through an exterior wall. This type of vent is perfect for kitchens with limited space or for those who prefer a sleek and unobtrusive look in their kitchen.

Factors to Consider

  • Kitchen Layout: The first thing to consider when buying a 36 inch downdraft vent is your kitchen layout. This type of vent works best for island cooktops or in kitchens with low-hanging cabinets above the cooking surface. Make sure you have enough space under your cabinets or in your island for proper installation.
  • Ventilation Power: One of the most important factors to consider is the ventilation power of the downdraft vent. This is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and determines how quickly it can remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen. For a 36 inch cooktop, look for a downdraft vent with at least 400 CFM.
  • Ducting Options: Another important factor to consider is how you want to duct your downdraft vent. There are two options: rear ducting or down ducting. Rear ducting vents directly behind the cooktop while down ducting vents through an exterior wall or under the floor. Down ducting requires more installation work but can be more efficient in removing odors.
  • Noise Level: Downdraft vents can be noisy, especially at higher CFM levels. Consider looking for models with multiple fan speeds or adjustable settings to control noise level while still maintaining proper ventilation power.
  • Filtration System: A good filtration system is crucial in removing smoke, grease, and odors from your kitchen. Look for models with multiple layers of filters such as mesh filters and baffle filters that are easy to remove and clean.

Additional Features

Some other features to consider when purchasing a 36 inch downdraft vent are:

  • Lights: Many models come with built-in lights that provide extra illumination over your cooking surface.
  • Dishwasher-safe Filters: Look for models with dishwasher-safe filters for easy cleaning.
  • Sleek Design: If aesthetics are important to you, look for models with sleek designs that complement your kitchen’s style.

Budget

Downdraft vents can range from $500 to $2000 depending on brand, features, and ventilation power. Set a budget before starting your search but keep in mind that investing in a high-quality downdraft vent can save you money in repairs or replacements in the long run.

Maintenance

To ensure proper functioning of your downdraft vent, regular maintenance is necessary. Clean or replace filters as needed according to manufacturer’s instructions and check exhaust pipes regularly to ensure there are no blockages.

In Conclusion

A 36 inch downdraft vent can be a great investment for any kitchen. Consider all factors discussed above before making your purchase decision and make sure it fits within your budget. With proper maintenance, it will efficiently remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen while providing a sleek look without taking up valuable space above your cooking surface.

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Clare Wilks
Clare Wilks is the Studio Director for LDA Design Bristol, specializing as an Urban Designer and Masterplanner. Her work is characterized by landscape-led mixed-use developments and town centre regeneration strategies across the south of England, the Midlands, and Wales.

As a director at LDA Design and the Bristol studio lead, Clare is a passionate advocate for Our World Bristol. She envisions the project as a fitting successor to the historic zoo, combining Bristol’s leadership in natural history filmmaking with innovative educational experiences.

In 2024, Clare Wilks began a new chapter by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience, providing valuable guidance and practical advice.

Her unique blend of artistic vision, design expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her blog an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable and innovative living.