Are vent hoods plug-in, or do they need to be hardwired? This is a very common question for all homeowners.
This article will teach you whether a range hood is hardwired or plug-in, whether they require their own circuits, and whether there is a code for hardwiring a range hood so you can conveniently use a range hood and have the best air quality in your kitchen.
Range hoods are available in both hardwired and plugin models. Hardwiring is not required if your range hood already has a plug. The absence of a plug indicates that hardwiring is required.
Are range hoods hardwired or plugin-in?
After installation, a range hood may receive power in one of two ways. First, if your range hood has a standard three-prong plug, you may use any standard 120V wall outlet. An extension cord may be used if the device’s original cable is too short to reach the wall outlet.
COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood
COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood
Do range hoods require their own circuits?
It is necessary to hardwire a range hood if it does not have a three-pronged socket or if you cannot use an extension cable to plug it in. Unlike bigger appliances that need their own circuit, range hoods can be used with any regular wall outlet. Most range hoods use the standard 120-volt current to function.
Are there codes for hardwiring a range hood?
Check the range hood regulations in your area by contacting the building authority. Depending on the specifics of the code in your area, kitchen exhaust regulations might be rather strict. The most up-to-date and accurate information on code requirements may be found at the building code enforcement or permitting offices in your city or county. Or you may also inquire with a constructor, plumber, or merchant of home cooking equipment.
If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “wiring for stove or range hoods” from the Ari Kazan YouTube channel.
A video called “wiring for stove or range hoods” from the Ari Kazan YouTube channel.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about whether range hoods are hardwired or plug-in.
Do ductless range hoods plug into the wall?
It depends. Ductless range hoods can either be plugged into the wall or powered by a wall outlet. A range hood’s wiring has nothing to do with whether it is ducted, in which case stale air is sent outside, or ductless, in which case the air is filtered before being recirculated back into the kitchen.
Most ducted range hoods need to be hardwired because the outlet is usually hard to get to once the hood is in place. Without vents, a range hood may be installed anywhere an electrical socket is available.
Can you install a range hood on an arc fault breaker?
The 2014 National Electrical Code (NEC) version says that all kitchen lights and appliances must have an arc-fault breaker. So, your stove’s fan and lights may run without risk.
Is a range hood a plug-in appliance, or does it need to be hardwired?
No hardwiring is required if your range hood has a three-prong connection. You can connect the hood to a regular electrical outlet with an extension cord if you need to. If the hood does not have a three-pronged connector or the plug is damaged, it will need to be hardwired.
Conclusion
Call an electrician to take a look when you doubt whether your range hood should be hardwired or plugged in. It’s always best to get a professional’s help when it comes to electrical wiring.
This article covered whether a range hood is hardwired or plug-in, whether they require their own circuit, and whether there are codes for hardwiring a range hood. Here are some key takeaways:
Key takeaways
- After installation, a range hood may receive power in one of two ways.
- Range hoods must be hardwired into a house’s electrical system.
- Investigate the range hood regulations in your area by contacting the building authority.
- You will need a screwdriver, wire strippers, and tools to hardwire your range hood to the circuit.
So, do you have a hardwired or plug-in range hood? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below (I read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out my full blog for more tips and tricks in your kitchen. Thanks for reading, and stay safe.
