Downdraft extractors, also known as cooktop extractors, are extraction systems discreetly integrated into the cooking surface. They draw steam and odors directly at the cooking site and channel them downward instead of upward as with traditional range hoods. These systems offer not only efficient air purification, quiet operation, and easy maintenance but also aesthetic benefits for sleek and minimalist kitchen designs thanks to flexible planning options without bulky ceiling hoods.

There are many high-quality providers, including AEG, Bosch, Bora, Elica, Electrolux, Gaggenau, Miele, Neff, Novy, VZUG, and Siemens. The right choice of downdraft extractor depends on individual needs and personal kitchen ideas. By integrating the following planning guidelines into your kitchen projects, you can ensure that your downdraft extractors function optimally and at the same time match the overall aesthetic of your LEICHT kitchen.

To assign the device to the correct cabinet and planning, the LEICHT architectural kitchen distinguishes between compact devices (motor integrated in the (induction) cooktop) and devices with base motors or special forms:

1. 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

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.

For devices with guided recirculation/exhaust air

2. 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.

Kitchen unit planning for cooktop extraction with base motor & island planning for cooktop extraction with base motor

General installation recommendations:

• 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!

For more information and professional support with your detailed planning, please contact a LEICHT dealer near you.

Our expert team is here to assist you.