Custom-fit base cabinets for downdraft extractors
Downdraft extractors are highly sought-after in modern, luxurious kitchens. However, designing base cabinets for such integrated appliances requires specific planning. What should be considered?
TECHNOLOGY
Installing and planning downdraft extractors requires specific solutions and thoughtful concepts.
01
Base Cabinet for Downdraft Extractor Compact Devices
The type of air guidance is a crucial factor in planning the base cabinet for compact devices. Whether the LEICHT kitchen is designed as an island solution or a built-in kitchen, cooktop extractors with unvented air are the simplest solution. The drawn-in and cleaned air circulates behind the back panel and exits below the cabinet in the plinth area. At LEICHT, the filtered air is guided through the back panel traverse using a short ventilation channel from the device manufacturer, so no exhaust air is blown into the cabinet. Additionally, LEICHT – unlike some competitors – does not use an additional bottom between the top drawer and the outlet of the fan. This prevents possible heat build-up from the cooktops.
For devices with unvented recirculation
Simple Solution: For appliances with unguided exhaust, the cleaned air is directed behind the cabinet with a short duct and spreads out on its own. If the exhaust air of the downdraft extractor is to be guided specifically and defined through a duct, space must be planned for its route. This is referred to as guided exhaust air. The duct can be installed either directly in or behind the cabinet. With the first option, the drawer depths are shortened by about 16 cm. If the exhaust air is guided behind the cabinet, the drawer depths remain unchanged, but the depth of the countertop must be adjusted accordingly.
02
Base cabinet for downdraft extractor with plinth motor or special forms
Even those planning their luxurious kitchen with a downdraft extractor with a plinth motor in the air duct or in special formats can rely on the high-quality cabinet solutions of LEICHT's architecture kitchen. LEICHT customizes the base cabinets to fit the specific appliances from BOSCH, Bora, Gaggenau, Miele & Co. Depending on the structural situation, the plinth motor is located under the cabinet floor or behind a cabinet, or between two cabinets. In the first option, the lower drawer depth must be shortened as the cabinet floor needs to be adjusted to accommodate the plinth motor. If the second option is preferred, the entire exhaust ducting can be placed behind or between the cabinets. Depending on the plinth motor, the plinth height must be planned at 11 cm or more.
For devices with guided recirculation/exhaust air
Specifically and defined guided exhaust air: In this case, the air is immediately directed to the plinth area. The installation of the exhaust duct can be done either in the cabinet (TV, drawing on the left) or behind the cabinet (TW, drawing on the right).
Kitchen unit planning for cooktop extraction with base motor & island planning for cooktop extraction with base motor
Whether for kitchen rows or island planning, for cooktop extractors with a plinth motor or special form, LEICHT's high-quality cabinets are individually planned.
GENERAL INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATION
For downdraft extractors that do not have control knobs on the front panel and where the use of a thin worktop is planned, use a metal crossbar from LEICHT to avoid the risk of breakage.
For front panels with control knobs for operating the cooktop, LEICHT uses a vertical crossbar firmly connected to the front panel. This ensures sufficient stability under normal use.
For easier assembly as well as maintenance and repair work, the back panel of the cabinet is designed to be removable at LEICHT.
During planning, the advisors must strictly follow the instructions from LEICHT as well as those of the respective appliance manufacturers.
Download the planning details for the installation recommendation directly here!
Downdraft Extractor FAQ
Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about downdraft extractors to help you choose and use these innovative ventilation systems.
Invisible technology for a modern kitchen design
A major advantage of downdraft extractors is their invisible technology. Unlike traditional range hoods, which are often large and conspicuous, downdraft extractors have all their technology discreetly integrated into the kitchen worktop. This results in a tidy and modern appearance without intrusive appliances that might detract from the aesthetics of your kitchen.
Effective steam and odor removal
Downdraft extractors provide excellent performance in removing steam and odors. Instead of dispersing steam and odors throughout the room, the downdraft extractor sucks them directly downward. This ensures a more efficient and quicker removal of cooking vapors and significantly improves the air quality in your kitchen.
