Replacing under cabinet range hood with wall mount

Happy New Year to you as well. So you have an under-cabinet and want to go to more of a chimney style. What you need to do is remove the upper cabinet repaint or finish the wall then mount it. The things to consider before taking on this work are:

1. How hard is it to remove that cabinet? Is it going to affect the cabinets around it? How wide is it? Etc. Can you remove it by destroying the surrounding cabinetry?
2. Where is it ducted? Internally then no issue. If it’s externally, then is the vent centered? So it can hide behind the duct cover of the new hood. If you need to move the ductwork. It may not be worth the expense.
3.  Electrical is the power coming in a spot so you can relocate it easily enough? Most are hardwired, so usually easy to relocate.

It is done quite often, so not overly hard. But will require a person who can handle a few trades, basic carpentry, electric, painting skills needed.

Replacing an under-cabinet range hood with a wall-mounted model is a task that can refresh the look of your kitchen and potentially improve your kitchen’s ventilation efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Assessment and Planning:

• Measurements: Ensure the new wall-mounted hood will fit the space. Measure the width of your cooking surface and the available height between the stovetop and ceiling.
  Venting: Check if your current venting system is compatible with the new hood. Wall-mounted hoods can either recirculate air or vent it outside.
  Removing the Old Hood:
• Safety First: Turn off the power to your current range hood at the circuit breaker.
  Dismantle: Remove the filters and any detachable parts. Unscrew the hood from the cabinets and carefully disconnect any wiring.

Preparing for the New Hood:

• Wall Preparation: Once the old hood is removed, you might need to patch or paint the wall. If the new hood has different dimensions, new drill holes may be required.
• Electrical and Venting: Ensure the electrical wiring and venting are appropriately positioned for the new hood. You might need to extend or reroute them.

Installing the New Wall-Mounted Hood:

• Mounting: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the new hood. This often involves securing a mounting bracket to the wall.
• Electrical Connections: If the hood is electric, connect it to the power source. It’s advisable to hire a professional electrician for this step to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
• Venting: Attach the hood to the existing venting system. Ensure all connections are secure and sealed.

Final Touches:

• Testing: Once installed, turn the power back on and test the hood to ensure it’s working correctly.
• Finishing: Apply any necessary sealant around the hood for a clean, finished look.

Consider Professional Help:

While it’s possible to DIY this project, consider hiring a professional, especially for the electrical and venting aspects. They can ensure everything is up to code and functioning safely.

Remember, every kitchen and range hood model is different, so adapt these steps to your specific situation. Safety should always be your top priority.