Range Hood CFM Guide: How to Choose the Right Power for Your Kitchen
Q: What does CFM mean in a range hood?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air your range hood can move. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the ventilation.
Q: What’s the difference between Max Blower CFM and Ducted (Operating) CFM?
- Max Blower CFM is the fan’s raw power — measured before installation.
- Operating CFM is the actual airflow after installation, factoring ductwork length, diameter, and number of bends.
Tip: Operational CFM is what really matters for performance, so verify whether a listed CFM is true operating CFM.
Q: Why shouldn’t I trust Max Blower CFM alone?
A: Max Blower CFM doesn’t account for real-world conditions. Poor duct design can significantly reduce airflow. That’s why Broan-NuTone emphasizes Ducted/Operating CFM — the true measure of performance.
Q: How does Broan-NuTone ensure accurate CFM ratings?
A: Broan-NuTone tests products in real-world conditions and is HVI certified, which verifies airflow under realistic operating pressures.
Q: How can I improve my ducted CFM?
- Use smooth, short duct runs
- Avoid sharp bends
- Match duct size to hood requirements
- Work with a certified installer
Q: Why choose Broan-NuTone?
A: Because we don’t just claim performance — we prove it. Broan-NuTone is the trusted authority in ventilation, delivering real airflow, real results, and real peace of mind.