Socket for the hood in the kitchen: at what height to locate, where it is better to install, installation scheme

Every detail counts when it comes to maximizing the efficiency and convenience of your kitchen, and this includes where the electrical outlets are located. The kitchen hood socket is one that is frequently disregarded but is very important. This socket must be positioned correctly to guarantee your hood operates smoothly and to be both safe and aesthetically pleasing.

It is crucial that you install the kitchen hood socket at the correct height. It can cause hazards and practical inconveniences to place it too high or too low. The socket should ideally be placed so that it is easily accessible and convenient to plug in or unplug the hood. A harmonious layout also requires taking into account the height of your kitchen cabinets and the space needed for the installation of the hood.

Although the exact placement of the socket depends on a number of factors, including the height of your kitchen countertops and the style of your hood, it is generally advised to place it about 18 inches above the countertop. This height ensures that the socket is neither overtly noticeable nor extremely challenging to reach, striking a compromise between usability and aesthetic appeal.

The location of the socket in your kitchen is an additional important factor to take into account. It should ideally be placed close to the location where your hood will be installed to reduce the need for unsightly extension cords and guarantee a neat, clutter-free look. Furthermore, strategically positioning the socket can shorten the amount of wiring needed and speed up the installation process.

Respecting electrical safety standards and laws is crucial when it comes to the socket’s installation plan. It is strongly advised that you hire a qualified electrician to handle the installation as they have the knowledge and experience necessary to guarantee a safe and correct installation of the socket. Additionally, professional advice can assist you in determining the best location for the socket based on the design and specifications of your kitchen.

Which socket is suitable for a kitchen hood: the rules of choice

The location of the outlet and its design should take into consideration various factors, as the kitchen’s conditions are not as "calm" as those of the bedroom or living room.

The degree of protection is the primary parameter. Based on the international IP table, it is categorized. Every product has a specific level of protection that is intended to function in a particular way.

The IP code has two digits. The product’s particle size pass-through is indicated by the first one. The second one shows what threats the socket is shielded from.

Here is how the codes are decoded:

The largest diameter through which a particle can flow

0: no defense

0: Unprotected

1: shielded from overhead precipitation

2: shielded from raindrops that land at a maximum 15º angle

3. shielded from drops falling at a 15–60 degree angle

4: shielded from splashing

5: Somewhat shielded from dust infiltration

5: shielded from water jet

6: completely shielded from dust infiltration

6: shielded from powerful water jets

7: shielded from transient water intrusion

8: shielded from prolonged and complete immersion in water

It’s important to consider the following details in addition to the level of protection:

1. Material. Too cheap products are made of low-quality plastic. Such material wears out faster and melts more easily (relevant if the outlet will be located close to the kitchen stove).
2. Build quality. It is imperative that the product is assembled in a quality, reliable manner, without play or wobble. Otherwise dust, grease and soot from the stove, or moisture can get inside.
3. The presence of "curtains" that do not allow anything but the plug to get into the outlet. For the kitchen – an almost indispensable function.
4. Appearance. The design of the socket outlets for the kitchen is not the main criterion. However, if you plan to decorate the kitchen in a certain style – on the appearance of the outlet should also pay attention: so that it does not stand out from the general background. Alternatively, the power point can be hidden in a cupboard.

The main types of kitchen hoods

These days, one can find a wide variety of kitchen hoods, including island, built-in, wall-mounted, suspended, and corner models.

As you can see, there are significant structural and installation differences between kitchen hoods; therefore, positioning the socket correctly to suit nearly any variation can be challenging but still achievable.

These days, the majority of kitchen hood installations are either suspended or recessed from a hinged cabinet above the cooktop, or they are installed independently and hung from the wall.

For the first scenario (recessed or suspended cooker hoods), it is most practical to put the socket inside the wall-hung cabinet or directly above it.

And in the duct cover above the second (kitchen hood mounted on the wall).

It fits both of these types of hoods as well as many more if you install an electrical outlet beneath the hood at a height of 110 cm (from the kitchen set’s countertop to the center of the socket).

Which manufacturer and which model is better to choose?

The level of protection is the primary factor to consider when selecting a kitchen hood socket.

Outlets with an IP62 rating or higher are necessary for rooms with periodically rising humidity levels. These products, according to the classifier, are shielded from powerful water jets and free of dust.

Purchasing from outlets of reputable companies that specialize in producing electrical products is advised. On the plus side, they have demonstrated:

What to pay attention to when choosing?

Consider a number of factors when selecting a socket in addition to the manufacturer.

1. Material of manufacture. The optimal solution is heat-resistant plastic. Budget models are made of materials of low quality. Such plastic quickly darkens and yellows, melts easily.
2. Build quality. It is inadmissible backlash in the connections of the socket elements.
3. It is desirable that the plug holes are protected by special sliding curtains.
4. The design of the product should match the style of the interior.

How to choose a socket? (video)

Location of the socket outlet under the hood

There are specific reasons why the height of 110 centimeters from the head is not installed; you will discover these reasons as you continue on. This distance from the work surface is thought to be ideal.

The location of the hood affects the height of the outlet. Manufacturers of range hoods have indicated that the device functions most efficiently and conveniently when cooking at a specific height.

The location and height of the stove hood can differ depending on the type of stove. The hood location height for an electric stove or cooktop must be 65 centimeters. The minimum distance for gas stoves is 75 centimeters from the hood. The height of the extraction devices themselves, which ranges from 15 to 30 centimeters, should also be considered.

Using these parameters, you can perform a quick calculation that yields the height from the surface plus the hood’s size plus an additional +/- 5 cm, for a total height of 110 centimeters. These dimensions are ideal for electrical communication installations from both the perspective of the equipment manufacturers and the masters themselves. To determine the socket’s height in relation to the floor, multiply the current value by the worktop or stove’s dimension.

When installing the socket on a wall-hung cooker hood, the hood’s dimensions need to be considered. Installing a hood on the same axis as the stove or cooktop and placing it in the center will minimize unnecessary risk. However, different models and modifications of hoods may have different indicators.

As an example, it is instructive to look at the hood itself, where the socket is situated 110 centimeters above the stove’s surface.

We used the most extreme measurements of the kitchen sets from several manufacturers in order to compare them. The sockets are perfect for installation, even with the variations in furniture dimensions. There may still be exceptions to these generally accepted dimensions, but they are appropriate in the majority of situations. Although there may be variations, 110 centimeters is thought to be the most accurate height.

The best way to avoid issues after the socket is installed is to install it by following the project’s guidelines regarding the placement of future furniture and the hood itself. An accurate drawing will make your work easier and help you determine where the installation will go best.

Installation height

There are no hard and fast rules regarding the height of the kitchen hood outlet. However, it is advised to position it 180–200 cm from the ground, keeping in mind practicality and ease of use. It is 100–110 cm if you measure from the stove or countertop.

Even so, it is best to determine the height according to the particular circumstances. Add the height of the hood, half of the socket’s height, and the height of the stove or worktop for this purpose. This will be the best position because it will keep the point always visible and shield it from the heat and fumes from the stove’s surface.

That being said, it is best to decide in advance which device will be used. The truth is that the connection itself can vary significantly between various models or types of hoods. There are thus four categories of hoods:

1. 1. Built-in or built-in – installed in the cabinet. In this case, it is better to locate the socket inside the cabinet.
2. 2. Suspended – installed either under a cupboard or simply hung if there is no cupboard present. Where to make a socket for the hood in this case depends on the situation: if the cabinet is present, you can install it inside.
3. 3. Ceiling or island – attached directly to the ceiling. In this variant, where to make a socket for the hood, the owner or the master himself decides. You can power it directly from the line, or you can make a point directly under the ceiling. In any case, this will not violate any regulations.
4. 4. Inclined, T-shaped, fireplace, corner – all of them are included in one group and are installed depending on the intended use. Here it is better to locate the socket outlet for the cooker hood in the immediate vicinity of the installation site.

Built-in system

It is especially important to pay attention to the integrated system. The location of the socket for this kind of hood is crucial in this case. Additionally, it’s critical that all safety regulations be followed.

These hoods, as you can see, are integrated right into the cabinet. However, the furniture’s design can vary greatly, adding to the complexity of the socket location. For this reason, you must plan the point’s location only after you are certain about the device and design.

In this case, the furniture installation should come first, then the installation. And in this case, adherence to every PUE regulation is crucial:

1. 1. The point must be installed strictly on a non-combustible surface. Therefore, some modernization may be necessary.
2. 2. The lead from the main power line should be packaged in corrugated steel tubing.

Connecting the kitchen extractor hood from the power socket

There are a few methods for connecting the hood to the power source, but a plug is thought to be the most straightforward and dependable. This explains why every model of device has an outlet plug attached to it.

The hood outlet is typically mounted at a specific height above the wall cabinet’s surface. A certain distance can have any height between 10 and 30 centimeters. The decision of where to install the socket outlet is left to the individual. Installing the outlet as close to the top of the cabinet as possible will make it difficult to notice, even at an acute angle, if the purpose is to hide it from view. Each homeowner chooses the aesthetics of the outlet installation so that he is comfortable and likes it.

It’s crucial to take the location of the hood’s corrugated section into account when installing the socket. It is preferable to install the socket on the left or right side of the hood rather than behind the corrugated outlet itself. Access to the work surface won’t be impeded by this type of kitchen hood socket, and the device’s power system can be disconnected whenever needed.

Regarding the hanging cabinets, there are additional guidelines that must be followed. Since each person arranges their own kitchen furniture, the power outlets may not all be in the same place. It is first important to measure the furniture’s dimensions and the area where it will stand. Then, based on the measurements, adjust the power point’s position to get the best installation location.

There are outlets installed specifically for this device in the hood, so don’t overthink choosing a handy spot.

The socket outlet’s elevated position is the only thing that bothers me about this situation, but it also makes it possible to conceal it from view behind the headset.

When it comes to the benefits of having the socket in this location, there are many. Firstly, you can always access the device’s power system and turn it off when needed. It’s crucial that neither the wire nor the socket are visible. It will be simple to remove the appliance and cut the power in the event of an equipment malfunction.

How to connect the hood without a socket

There are also hoods that don’t require sockets to be connected to the power grid. In these models, the cables exit the building and are fastened with the power cable before being sealed and fastened firmly.

Even without a socket, you can connect the hood by yourself. The appliance’s wires must be attached to the "phase" and "neutral" cores of the wiring cable in order to make the connection. The ground wire is connected to the ground wire of the electrical wiring if the hood’s power cord has three wires labeled "phase," "zero," and "ground." Recall that the ground wire is colored yellow-green.

Using insulating tape, securely fasten the connecting points. Not much knowledge or expertise is required to remove the wires from the plug; all that is needed is to disassemble the case and prepare the wires for connection.

Caution! Ask the retailer if the warranty will still apply in this situation before cutting the wire.

Three wires are located in the plug and socket:

• Red or white is the "phase."
• Blue or blue – "zero";
• Yellow-green – grounding.

You won’t become perplexed if you have no trouble recognizing colors.

The wires can be connected using special screw terminals or alternative techniques like soldering, crimping, or self-clamping terminals. Pure twisted wires are not worth using because they are regarded as an unreliable connection. Soldering is another option that you have. It will dependable join the wires and shield them from harm, and the connection won’t be very obvious.

There are a few drawbacks to a connection without a socket, the primary being that you cannot de-energize a single device without also disconnecting the power supply to the entire house or apartment.

Connecting the hood with a separate line

Using a separate line from a separate automatic circuit breaker in the switchboard is an additional method of connecting the hood. While there are benefits to this connection option, there are drawbacks as well.

The ability to turn off the power at any time, the wire’s easier concealment than a socket, the lack of additional connections, and the long service life of this connection method are the advantages of this type of connection.

After being put into the hood, the supply wire is attached to the proper terminals. Both sockets and extra connections are absent.

This is also where you should be aware that connecting the supply wire will require disassembling the body, so you should make sure beforehand that doing so won’t void the warranty. Furthermore, not everyone possesses this strength.

Speaking of the drawbacks, it’s important to know that in order to connect the device this way, you’ll need to purchase wires, rent a group circuit breaker, and hire a professional installer to handle all the installation. The owner will have to pay a hefty price to complete such work in terms of work to cost.

Because it purges smoke and soot from the air and cleans the air in the kitchen, the hood is crucial. A well-placed and installed outlet won’t detract from the room’s or the house’s overall aesthetic.

Selecting a socket outlet for the hood: rules and standards

It is necessary to decide where to place the socket after it has been chosen and purchased.

The following are the main guidelines for where to put the hood’s sockets:

1. It is necessary to decide exactly where and at what height the hood will hang (probably the most important rule). This is necessary so that the other rules and restrictions (distances to furniture) can be observed when choosing a place for the socket.
2. The minimum distance from the power supply point to the kitchen furniture (countertop, cabinets, shelves) is 5 cm.
3. The minimum distance from the power supply point to the vent hole is 20 cm.
4. It is recommended that the socket should not be placed close to the hood, but about 30 cm away from it. In this case, the heat will not reach the power point, and also possible drops of water and grease from the stove will not reach it.
5. It is mandatory to have an earth connection, the current strength – from 15A.
6. The total power of kitchen appliances should not exceed 4 kW. If the sum of the power of the kitchen equipment is or exceeds 4 kW – a separate line for the extractor hood is necessary to avoid overloading the power grid when all devices are working at the same time.
7. Access to the outlet should not be blocked by furniture or appliances, at least massive and heavy (placement inside a closet is allowed). Firstly – you need to see what condition the power point is in. Secondly – in case of problems with it or with the wiring, furniture and appliances will have to be moved away (and in the kitchen it is often impossible to move a single piece of furniture).

It is also advisable to ascertain the precise length of the model’s cord (assuming you have already selected it). It is typically 80 cm (the most common, but not a common option).

Rules for laying the wiring in the kitchen (video)

The height of the outlet for the hood: on what to do?

180–200 centimeters from the floor, or 100–110 centimeters above the table (stove), is the recommended installation height.

The following formula can be used to determine the ideal distance to the stove (countertop):

• Hvp: the height from the hood to the stove;
• Hv: the height of the hood itself (housing);
• 5 – half the height of the socket.

Where to make a socket for a "normal" hood (not built-in)?

Another crucial point is that you should choose the model (or at least the kind of hood) before deciding where to connect it to the electricity.

The explanation for this is that various types of devices have unique connection characteristics:

1. Built-in (recessed). It is installed in the cupboard and the socket is usually located there as well.
2. Suspended (installation is carried out under the kitchen cabinet, or without it). If you install a suspended cooker hood under a cupboard, you can install the power outlet inside the cupboard.
3. Island (ceiling). The most difficult option in terms of installation: it is attached to the ceiling, away from the wall. In this case, electricity can be supplied by direct connection to the wiring (more on this below). Or, as an option – the power point is made under the ceiling.
4. Corner, sloping, chimney, T-shaped. Such devices are connected in the same way, in the socket near the place of installation.

Where and how to make a socket for a built-in hood?

As previously mentioned, the socket for a hood integrated into a cupboard needs to be mounted within the cupboard. As a result, choosing a location for the outlet comes first, followed by at least a project of the furniture that will eventually be used.

After the furniture has been installed, you should get to work. Nevertheless, there are a few crucial PUE guidelines that need to be followed:

1. The socket should be installed on a non-combustible base.
2. "Hidden" wiring, which will run inside the kitchen furniture, must necessarily be laid in a steel corrugated casing – for protection.

Connecting the built-in hood to the network (video)

Do all cooker hoods have a plug?

The majority of models come with a plug. Some devices, on the other hand, are sold simply with a cord and wires at the ends. Although they are uncommon, it is still advisable to confirm whether the model has a plug before making a purchase.

In this instance, how do you connect it? The choices are as follows:

1. Attach a plug to the wires, and connect to the socket in the usual way.
2. Connect via Wago terminal blocks.
3. Connect through a terminal block.

Installation methods

Slot for a suspended type hood

When installing a socket under the kitchen hood, there are a few different options. The following standards are used to differentiate them:

• for built-in modifications of extractor hoods;
• For suspended hood samples;
• If possible, the socket can be installed in a protective cover.

In the first example, the built-in hood socket is most conveniently found inside the cabinet that hinges. The best location for suspended models is right above the top panel, close to the air duct. In this instance, the power cord is securely concealed behind the structure, maintaining the kitchen’s overall aesthetic. The final suggested option is good in and of itself because it conceals the socket safely and complies with all current standards in terms of location.

It is important to keep in mind that the average length of the electric cord in hoods is rarely longer than 80 cm when choosing a convenient location. In order to precisely identify the best spot to install a power outlet during the electrical installation stage, a clear kitchen plan with the locations of the gas stove and household wiring marked on it must be created.

Wiring options

It is inconvenient to connect the hood to a distribution panel.

The apartment’s extractor hood can be connected directly to the distribution board (the circuit breaker installed in it) or through a socket outlet. The following are the advantages of the last switching method:

• The number of connecting contacts and wires is reduced and the reliability of the supply line is increased;
• The cost of purchasing installation products is reduced – it is not necessary to purchase a separate socket with all its fixtures;
• there is no need to find a place for the socket.

The potential to disconnect the hood only with a protective AB that is situated a good distance from the kitchen area is the drawback of this connection type.

The benefit of using the first connection method is that it saves switchboard space and makes it convenient to switch the exhaust unit because the socket is always nearby. The expense of installing a socket with local grounding and the requirement to set aside a specific location are its drawbacks.

Connecting a hood without a socket to electricity (directly): is it worth it??

Does the cooker hood require a socket to be connected? Essential, but not required: terminal blocks can be used to connect the device straight to the wiring, bypassing the plug and socket.

It is not advised to use such a scheme as it is deemed unsafe. It is also inconvenient because disconnecting such a connection will be more challenging and take longer if the hood needs to be removed.

Height	Recommended Height: 65-75 cm above the stove top.
Location	Near the stove or range, ideally on the wall directly above it.
Installation Scheme	Ensure it"s connected to a dedicated electrical circuit, preferably by a certified electrician. Mount it securely on the wall, following the manufacturer"s instructions.

Selecting the ideal spot and elevation for your kitchen hood’s outlet is essential for both practicality and security. Its ability to remove cooking smells and fumes can be affected by placement; putting it in the wrong place could also present an electrical risk.

Generally speaking, the hood socket should be installed between 18 and 24 inches above the stove cooktop. This elevation guarantees that the hood effectively collects the steam and smoke generated while cooking. Too high a placement could lead to inadequate ventilation, and too low a placement could increase the chance of unintentional contact with hot pots or pans.

The layout of your kitchen and the distance to the hood itself should be taken into account when choosing where to install the socket. In order to avoid any accidents involving water, the socket should ideally be placed both easily accessible for plugging and unplugging the hood and away from any sources of water.

Make sure the electrical circuit can support the weight of the kitchen hood before installing it. It is best to have a professional electrician inspect the wiring and make any necessary changes to meet the power requirements of the hood.

After you’ve decided on the best place and height for the socket, carefully follow the installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Usually, to do this, the socket must be firmly mounted on the wall or cabinet next to the hood and connected to the electrical supply. Before beginning regular use, make sure to test the hood and the socket to make sure everything is operating as it should.

You can guarantee effective ventilation, reduce safety hazards, and improve the functionality of your kitchen by taking the time to install and position the kitchen hood socket correctly.

In your kitchen, getting that hood socket in the right spot is crucial. It’s all about convenience and safety. You want it at a height where you can easily plug in your hood without stretching or bending too much. Usually, a height of around 18 to 24 inches above the countertop is ideal. But it also depends on your hood’s design and your own height. Another thing to consider is where to install it. Ideally, it should be near the hood but not too close to avoid any steam or heat damage. Think about the layout of your kitchen and choose a spot that’s easily reachable but also out of the way. And when it comes to installation, following the standard electrical wiring guidelines is key. You want it done safely and correctly, so consulting a professional electrician is always a smart move. With the right height, placement, and installation, your hood socket will be ready to keep your kitchen clear of smoke and odors hassle-free.

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