Kitchen
Range Hood / Vent Hood Sizing Calculator
Calculates range hood CFM by stove BTU output and kitchen size
Updated April 28, 2026 · Live
What this tool does
Calculates range hood CFM by stove BTU output and kitchen size.
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How the range hood / vent hood sizing calculator works
Calculates range hood CFM by stove BTU output and kitchen size. The calculator takes your dimensions and supplier rates, applies a standard US construction formula, and returns a quantity with an indicative cost. Every figure is an estimate — site conditions always move the final number.
Typical US kitchen wastage
Cabinets and countertops are cut to size — wastage is in the offcuts (typically 10% by area) and any mismeasure that needs re-ordering. Our defaults reflect common US trade allowances — adjust upwards for non-standard geometry, downwards if your experience says so.
What this tool does not do
It does not replace a professional quote, factor regional pricing, assess structural adequacy, or confirm building code compliance. Those remain the responsibility of a suitably qualified designer, engineer, or your local building official.
On-site considerations for range hood / vent hood sizing
Range hood ventilation must be ducted to the outside per IRC M1503; recirculating hoods are not a code-compliant substitute for high-CFM cooking. New circuits require a Permit and inspection per NEC.
Codes and compliance
Kitchen electrical — small-appliance circuits, GFCI/AFCI protection, and dedicated circuits — is governed by NEC Article 210. Plumbing follows the IPC. Use a state-licensed electrician for any new circuit. When in doubt, file a pre-application question with your local building department — early clarity is cheaper than a corrective inspection.
Before you order
Order cabinets, counters, and appliances on overlapping lead times so installation does not stall. Stone countertops typically run 3–4 weeks from template to delivery. Always cross-check the calculator's output against a supplier quote — ask for exact product specifications (grade, finish, batch number) and confirm delivery timescales against your programme.
Adjusting the defaults
Every input in this calculator is editable. Enter your own dimensions, supplier prices, and wastage allowance — the output recalculates instantly. If the defaults feel off for your region or project type, your own numbers always override them.
Using this range hood / vent hood sizing calculator alongside other BuildMetricLab tools
This calculator works best as part of a planning workflow. Pair the quantity with our project contingency, labor-hours, and material-cost calculators to build a complete estimate before you pick up the phone to a supplier. All BuildMetricLab tools run entirely in your browser — no sign-up, no data sent anywhere, and every formula is shown on-page so you can audit the math.
Sources & methodology
Calculates range hood CFM by stove BTU output and kitchen size. Uses US construction defaults for wastage and density. Prices are illustrative April 2026 values and vary by region; change them to match your supplier quote.
Frequently asked questions
Are range hood / vent hood sizing calculator results accurate enough to order materials?
Use them as a starting estimate only. Always verify the final quantity with your supplier or contractor before ordering — site conditions, wastage and cut-offs all affect the true figure.
What wastage percentage should I use?
The calculator defaults to the typical US trade allowance for kitchen. Increase it for complex cuts, awkward shapes, or first-time DIY. Reducing the wastage below the default is not recommended.
Does this replace professional advice?
No. This tool is a planning estimator. For work that affects structure, building code compliance, gas, electrical, plumbing, or drainage to a public sewer, consult a licensed contractor or design professional.
Can I change the unit prices?
Yes — every price field is editable. Plug in your supplier's quote to get a total that matches your project.
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