Innovative Downdraft Extractors
Downdraft extractors combine design and function for modern, open kitchen concepts.
DOWNDRAFT EXTRACTORS
Downdraft extractors – innovative kitchen ventilation for fresh air, elegant design, and maximum efficiency.
A downdraft extractor is an innovative type of ventilation system integrated directly into the cooktop or work surface. Instead of installing a traditional hood above the stove, the downdraft extractor pulls steam and odors downward – discreetly, space-savingly, and with particular elegance. This solution is becoming increasingly popular in modern kitchens, as it preserves the design while ensuring fresh air.
What is the significance of a troughed ventilator in terms of architectural design?
A hob extractor offers numerous advantages for both planners and end customers, particularly with regard to architectural design. Hopper ventilators are the perfect choice for kitchen design enthusiasts who want a less technical and more open impression of their kitchen. They allow a flexible design of living and kitchen spaces: cooking under sloping ceilings or in front of windows is possible, more space is created for cosy cupboard systems and kitchen islands can do without technical bonnets.
The visually reduced cooktop extractor makes personalised kitchen planning possible, setting no limits to individual wishes. In combination with the high-quality cabinet solutions and extensive LEICHT architectural kitchen programmes, this opens up completely new design possibilities. A major advantage of downdraft extractors is the invisible technology. Unlike traditional range hoods, which are often large and conspicuous, downdraft extractors discreetly integrate all the technology into the kitchen countertop. This ensures a tidy and modern appearance, without intrusive devices that detract from the aesthetics of your kitchen.
Advantages: Efficiency, Design, Noise Level, Space Saving
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about downdraft extractors — from technology and installation to benefits.
How often do the filters need to be replaced?
Depending on usage, approximately every 6 to 12 months. Some models have washable filters.
Is a downdraft extractor suitable for small kitchens?
Yes, especially in small kitchens it provides efficient ventilation without affecting the visual design.
High Efficiency
Downdraft extractors work very effectively by extracting steam directly at the cooking surface before it spreads into the room.
Modern Design
Integration into the countertop keeps sightlines clear – ideal for open kitchens and minimalist interiors.
Quiet Operation
Many models are especially low-noise, ensuring a pleasant kitchen atmosphere.
Space Saving
Without a large hood above the stove, there’s more headroom and space for wall cabinets or lighting.
Does a downdraft extractor work with induction cooktops?
Yes, downdraft extractors are compatible with all common cooktop types, including induction.
In the past, large and visible extractor hoods dominated the space and strongly influenced the atmosphere. Today, high-quality downdraft extractors from brands like AEG, Bosch, Bora, Elica, Electrolux, Gaggenau, Miele, Neff, Novy, V-ZUG, or Siemens allow for discreet integration into the work surface. This enables extraction systems to be designed almost invisibly, giving the kitchen a clean and harmonious appearance.
What needs to be taken into account when planning a downdraft fan?
When planning a trough fan, it is important to differentiate between ducted and unducted exhaust air. The most efficient variant is ducted exhaust air with external motors, in which the air is channelled away in a targeted and defined manner via a duct. The ducts should be planned with small radii and sufficiently large cross-sections in order to minimise air and flow resistance as well as noise development.
With unguided recirculated air, the intake and cleaned air is channelled behind the rear wall and optionally guided into the plinth area with an extension, where it can then exit again. Care must be taken to ensure that the air volume behind and below the cabinets is sufficiently large to allow the air masses to circulate. As a rule, however, this should be no problem.
Base Cabinet with Thin Worktop - Illustration of the Steel Traverse
Are there any overriding aspects that should be taken into account?
The information provided by the appliance manufacturer must be taken into account - particularly with regard to the operation and performance of the extraction technology and the duct routing. This information can often be found on the manufacturer's website. If you opt for thin worktops in natural stone or ceramic, the planner must ensure that the worktop in which the hob and extraction technology are installed has sufficient static support, especially along the front and rear support surfaces. Depending on the appliance type and installation situation, LEICHT offers the option of an additional metal traverse or so-called upright traverses made of carcase material.
