To help you find the best exhaust fan for the kitchen, we researched 15 different models and scored them based on a variety of different applications, features, and functionalities. To help you choose the right fan, we measured each fan’s ability to move air in and out of your kitchen. Then, we ranked them based on their design, durability, and ease of installation. You will most definitely get the best fans for your kitchen, from the options in this list.
The iLiving ILG85F10V is the best exhaust fan for the kitchen based on these metrics. It features an extra-powerful 600 CFM rating, super-durable aluminum housing, and OSHA-certified motor housing to keep you safe. Keep reading below to learn more about other high-quality exhaust fans for the kitchen available for purchase. We’ll also show you how to identify the best fans on the market for any need.
Top 10 Best Exhaust Fans for Kitchen
#1 iLiving ILG85F10V Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This best-of-class exhaust fan for the kitchen is built with durability and reliability in mind. It features weather-resistant shutters, a fully-enclosed motor, and a whopping 600 CFM of airflow power to keep your kitchen heat and odor-free.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Incredibly durable construction
- 600 CFM rating
- Fully-enclosed motor is easy to maintain
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Adjustable speeds only available with extra purchase
- No controls on the body of the fan
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The iLiving ILG85F10V kitchen exhaust fan is extra powerful, incredibly durable, (possibly not louder than a box fan), and amazingly efficient at moving air out of your kitchen. For starters, it offers a 600 CFM rating, which means it offers enough airflow movement for kitchens up to 600 square feet large. This is more than enough power to vent your kitchen of heat and cooking smells with ease. Fortunately, the iLiving isn’t too loud either, even with this much power output.
The overall build quality of the iLiving exhaust fan is where it really shines. The fan and shutters are built from high-grade aluminum, which is weather, heat, and mold resistant. This high-quality construction will ensure your exhaust fan lasts longer than many other products on the market today. The fan’s motor is also fully enclosed and permanently lubricated so it requires minimal maintenance. The overall installation process is easy with the iLiving, as well. However, be aware that you’ll likely want to wire your fan to a light switch so you can turn it on and off easily since the fan itself doesn’t have on/off controls on the body. An additional accessory is sold separately for variable speed settings and programmability, though, if you want the added convenience, giving you a range of features more commonly found in the best ceiling fans.
#2 Broan-NuTone 512M Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This exhaust fan is perfect for small kitchens with its 70 CFM rating and compact size, but don’t let its smaller size fool you. This option also features a built-in damper for increased performance and efficiency.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Built-in damper for increased performance
- Easy to install
- Paintable polymeric grilles
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Not for large kitchens
- Not as durable as other options
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Broan-NuTone 512M exhaust fan for the kitchen is small, yet surprisingly high performance. Yes, it only offers a total of a 70 CFM rating, which makes it good for small kitchens. However, the fan’s performance is enhanced with a built-in damper that minimizes backdrafts and a unique fan blade that increases fan efficiency. With all of these features, you won’t have to worry about smells or hot air lingering in your kitchen. But, it can get steamy in a kitchen when you’re cooking, so you might want to grab a Lasko fan to keep you cool.
This kitchen wall exhaust fan is also designed well for easy installation. The most complicated piece of the installation here is putting a hole in the wall where the fan can be placed. This is unlike the TPI Corporation Single, which is wall-mounted. Everything else is as easy due to the fan’s twist-lock installation. Simply place a piece where it needs to go and twist to lock it into place. For the most part, this Broan-NuTone wall-mounted exhaust fan is sturdy, but some parts of the housing can be a little flimsy, especially during installation. We recommend taking care while putting everything in place. Another one of Broan-NuTone’s features is the fact that its polymeric grilles are completely paintable, meaning you can easily match the fan to your home decor with a little bit of paint. To cool your kitchen, our best modern ceiling fan buying guide has additional, stylish options.
#3 Hon&Guan HGA-150C Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re on a budget, this exhaust fan for the kitchen is an excellent choice. It offers a surprising amount of power in such a small package, along with an IP34 waterproof rating and durable, long-lasting copper motor.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- IP34 waterproof grade
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Thermally protected copper motor
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Backdraft damper could be sturdier
- No hardwiring option
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Hon&Guan HGA-150C exhaust fan for the kitchen is the best affordable option your money can buy today, making it an excellent choice for smaller renovation projects on tight budgets. Fortunately, this fan doesn’t skip out on too much to achieve that affordability. You still get 170 CFM of airflow and a durable copper motor in thermally-protected housing. This means you’ll have a reliable exhaust fan for a long time coming.
Overall design and functionality are good here as well. The fan is extra durable with its UV-resistant ABS plastics. While it’s not as durable as aluminum, the ABS plastic housing performs really well in kitchen settings. Installing the Hon&Guan exhaust fan is also fairly easy, due to the all-in-one design. Everything comes assembled, meaning you just need to cut a hole in the wall and place the fan inside of it. Unfortunately, the HGA-150C can only connect to a wall outlet with the available plug. You’re not able to hardwire it to any of your existing wirings. For your garage, you might be interested in the best garage fan buying guide.
#4 Bionaire BW2300-N Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST DUAL DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: Portability and versatility are hallmark features of this exhaust fan for the kitchen. Rather than install this directly in a wall or ceiling, you can instead place it in almost any window. Plus it offers both intake and exhaust functionality for even greater flexibility.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Lightweight and portable
- Can intake and exhaust air
- Includes remote control and thermostat
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Control panel lights are bright
- Can be difficult to clean
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Bionaire BW2300-N exhaust fan for the kitchen offers twin fans and plenty of power to keep your kitchen full of fresh air. One of the best things about this fan is the fact that you install it in a window instead of on the wall or ceiling. This means you’ll be able to move it to different windows as needed to get the best results. For this reason alone, the Bionaire is the best portable kitchen exhaust fan.
Fortunately, it also features a ton of other functionality that makes it an excellent exhaust fan. With dual fans, you can configure the fan to both intake and exhaust air from your kitchen with the touch of a button. It also includes a programmable thermostat built directly into the fan that you can control manually or with the included remote control. All in all, if you need extra portability in your kitchen exhaust fan, you can’t go wrong with the Bionaire BW2300-N. It’s a good alternative for the best window fan if you’re looking for more functionality.
#5 Cosmo 5MU30 Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST SEAMLESS DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: This exhaust fan for the kitchen is designed to be a classic range hood, which integrates well into your existing cabinets and kitchen design. It also offers a ton of modern features like an LED light, easy-to-use controls, and built-in carbon filters.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Durable metal design
- Under-cabinet installation integrates well in kitchen
- Three-speed exhaust
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Only includes standard outlet plug
- LED light not as bright as it could be
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Cosmo 5MU30 exhaust kitchen fan is a powerful, 200 CFM range hood that installs directly underneath the cabinets above your stovetop. Easy installation is one of the best features of this stainless steel range hood. It comes with pre-drilled holes, making it extremely easy to attach directly to your cabinet. It also features a power cord that can plug directly into an existing wall outlet. While this can certainly limit you somewhat, it does make for easier installation, as long as you have an available outlet in that area of your kitchen.
The Cosmo provides a sleek, stainless steel design that’s also durable and long-lasting. Much like galvanized steel, stainless steel is rust and corrosion-resistant, a feature we appreciate in the best outdoor floor fan models. And with a modern control panel that features easy-to-use buttons, the fan fits well into most kitchens. It even features an LED light for use in the dark, although we do wish it were a little brighter overall. The Cosmo also gives you a comprehensive carbon filtration system that’s easy to maintain, which helps extend the life of the fan and keeps your kitchen clear of grease and odors. All of these features make the Cosmo the best kitchen exhaust hood available today.
#6 Broan-NuTone 509 Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST QUIET DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: With a design that fits nearly flush to the wall and a powerful 180 CFM airflow rating, this exhaust fan for kitchens is an excellent choice for nearly all kinds of kitchens and chefs. It is easily installed directly into your wall and even helps eliminate humidity in your kitchen.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Low profile design sits flush to installation site
- Powerful, 180 CFM
- Excellent humidity elimination
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Plastic isn’t as tough as other options
- Louder than some models
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Broan-NuTone 509 exhaust fan’s best feature is its powerful 180 CFM rating. With this kind of power, you can easily clear the bad air out of your kitchen in minimal time. This fan also does well clearing out any humidity in your kitchen, which is nice when you’re steaming food or boiling water. This performance combined with the integrated damper makes for an efficient and extremely effective exhaust fan.
The 509 fan is also designed well. It’s a fairly unassuming design with a wire guard that sits nearly flush against the wall. If you don’t want your fan getting in the way of your cooking, this low-profile design is perfect. Like other Broan-NuTone exhaust fans, the grill on this fan can also be painted to match your kitchen’s color scheme and aesthetic. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for the best ventilation fans that will also work in the kitchen.
#7 Maxx Air IF14UPS Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST HEAVY DUTY
WHY WE LIKE IT: You can’t go wrong with the heavy-duty nature of this exhaust fan for the kitchen, especially if you have a large kitchen and do a lot of intense cooking. Made from durable materials and integrated with automatic external shutters, this fan removes bad air in a breeze.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Incredible 1400 CFM rating
- Industrial-grade durability
- Thermally protected motor
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- On the louder side
- Somewhat complicated installation
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
If you need heavy-duty performance from your exhaust fan, you absolutely cannot go wrong with the Maxx Air IF14UPS. For starters, it offers an impressive 1400 CFM rating, meaning this fan can move the air in your kitchen without a problem. Unfortunately, this higher amount of power does make for a noisier experience, but it’s well worth the performance boost.
The Maxx Air fan offers heavy-duty durability to match its heavy-duty performance, which is another reason to purchase for kitchens that see a lot of action. The fan is made from industrial-grade aluminum and the motor is thermally protected to keep your hands safe after long periods of use. Installation can be a little bit complicated, especially if you’ve never installed a through-wall exhaust fan before. It needs to be hardwired, which adds complication but also versatility. All in all, if you need power and reliability, this is the best through-the-wall kitchen exhaust fan you can get today. For other heavy-duty options, you might also like our best drying fan guide for home improvement jobs.
#8 SailFlo LFW-25 Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This exhaust fan offers high quality all around, from materials to performance. With a low noise level, overheat protection, and reverse airflow capability, this is one of the best residential kitchen exhaust fans available.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Two-way airflow functionality
- Overheating protection
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Short power cable
- No screen included
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The SailFlo LFW-25 exhaust fan for the kitchen is made with quality in every aspect of its design. It features a wear-resistant motor that can operate for a total of 9,000 continuous hours due to its sleeve-bearing design. It’s also incredibly quiet, which is a nice feature to have when you consider its powerful 470 CFM rating. The housing and grill are also high quality and easy to clean, making this perfect for any kind of kitchen.
One of the SailFlo’s best features, though, is the reversible airflow functionality. This means you can both intake and exhaust air from your kitchen. This allows you to expel stale, smelly, and hot air from your kitchen and bring in fresh air from outside. We were also pleased with the easy installation this fan offers. It’s pretty much plug-and-play, which keeps your time consumption and cost low. If you’re also trying to manage little ones, our best fan for your baby room buying guide has great nursery options as well.
#9 Broan-NuTone 8210 Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: BEST ROOF VENTILATION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This ceiling exhaust fan for the kitchen offers excellent roof ventilation that’s easy to get installed and balanced for optimized performance. This fan is also easy to install with twist-lock functionality.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Blade designed for balance and longevity
- Easy, twist-lock ceiling installation
- Durable, anodized aluminum grill
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Plastic bezel
- Can get noisy
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Broan-NuTone 8210 is the best kitchen ceiling exhaust fan your money can buy in today’s market for a wide variety of reasons. For starters, it offers an impressive amount of airflow capability, measuring in at 210 CFM. This is more than enough power to get air circulating through your kitchen with ease. Unfortunately, this exhaust fan can get a little noisy at times, but not enough to drown out all other sounds.
This power is backed up by a fan blade specially designed for balance. When you have a balanced fan blade, you get efficient and even airflow performance. The 8210 fan is also more durable than other options with an anodized aluminum grill. We do wish the bezel were aluminum too, but the plastic isn’t as flimsy as one might expect. Ceiling installation can be a little complicated at times, but the Broan-NuTone features an easy twist-lock installation for the motor assembly that makes everything much easier. Additionally, you might like our best wall mount fan buying guide for your other cooling needs.
#10 Broan-NuTone 506 Exhaust Fan for Kitchen
Award: EASIEST INSTALLATION
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you need a fan that can be easily installed, this is a good pick for you. It’s also designed for efficient operation with a polymeric fan blade and powerful airflow with 430 CFM.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Efficient pull-start operation
- Foam-insulated door for energy efficiency
- Polymeric fan blade increases performance
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Somewhat flimsy housing
- Speed control is a separate purchase
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Broan-NuTone 506 exhaust fan for the kitchen offers a powerful 430 CFM airflow that is best for moderately sized kitchens. This is enough power to clear a room of smelly odors and hot air with ease. The increased power can make for a louder experience, but it doesn’t detract from the 506’s overall value and performance.
This Broan-NuTone fan is designed well, too. It offers a relatively simple design that looks good in any kitchen. The housing is a little flimsy, but not to the point of being too flimsy, even during installation. We recommend installing it a little out of the way, though, so you don’t accidentally cause damage. Another design aspect that is especially impressive here is the insulated exhaust door that increases energy efficiency in your home. For easy installation on the go, you might also like to check out our best travel fan buying guide. But for your office desk, you need the best desk fans.
How We Decided
The most important factor to consider with exhaust fans for kitchens is their ability to quickly and efficiently clear your kitchen of hot, smelly, and humid air that results from your cooking. Food odors can linger without proper ventilation, so it’s important to purchase an option that works well for your space and your cooking preferences. The best way to measure this performance is in CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. We included fans across a broad spectrum of CFM ratings, but generally ranked fans with higher CFM ratings better. If you’re looking for heavy-duty fans, consider something with at least a 400 CFM rating.
Next, we looked at design and durability. You’re likely going to use your kitchen exhaust fan regularly, so we only included fans that can stand up to continuous use. We awarded bonus points to fans built from durable materials like aluminum but didn’t exclude options made from plastic, as long as they were built from durable plastic.
Finally, we rated options based on their ease of installation. While most exhaust fans will require some complex steps to be completed during installation, you shouldn’t have to suffer through the entire process. We ranked options higher if they came all in one piece or made assembly easy on you.
Best Exhaust Fan for Kitchen Buying Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Exhaust Fan Power
Kitchen exhaust fans are all about getting the heat, smell, and grease out of your kitchen’s air as fast as possible. This is why it’s important to purchase an option that provides more than enough power for your specific kitchen. In general, you’ll want to purchase an exhaust fan that can move one cubic foot of air per minute (CFM) per square foot of your kitchen. If you’re cooking professionally, you should consider an option that offers one CFM per 100 BTUs of heating power on your stove. Make sure the fan you purchase is UL listed as well, especially if it offers more power. This way, you’ll know it’s safe for use. - Noise Level
You don’t want to install a kitchen exhaust fan that is so loud it drowns out all other sounds. Kitchens and dining rooms are very social places in your home, and you’ll want to be able to converse with friends and family during and after cooking. The best exhaust fans for kitchens provide a good balance between power and noise, so you’re not fighting to be heard over a fan just trying to do its job. - Ease of Installation
Installing a kitchen exhaust fan can be intimidating, especially since you’ll typically need to drill a hole through your wall to do it. However, this doesn’t mean you need to struggle with the installation. The exhaust fan you buy should include comprehensive installation instructions and should also offer a fairly straightforward process. Avoid options that require extra steps or over-complicated directions. - Design
The design of your kitchen exhaust fan should complement your kitchen’s existing decor. Pick the option that works best with your aesthetic. Exhaust fans also come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll want to be sure you find one that doesn’t inhibit your ability to cook or move around your kitchen.
