Ventilation is a big deal when it comes to commercial kitchens. The right hood doesn’t just keep the air clear. It also makes the workspace safer and more comfortable.

There are two main types of hoods: Type 1 and Type 2. We discussed Type 1 hoods here, and we’re going to talk about Type 2 hoods now. So what exactly are Type 2 hoods? What are they used for? Do they help prevent fires? Let’s find out below. 

What Is a Type 2 Hood?

A Type 2 hood is designed for appliances that give off heat, steam, and odors but don’t produce grease or smoke. These appliances include dishwashers, ovens, steamers, pasta cookers, and coffee machines. They’re different from Type 1 hoods, which are used for appliances that produce grease, like fryers and grills. 

The main job of Type 2 hoods is to control moisture and heat. Steam and hot air can build up quickly in a busy kitchen and make it uncomfortable. A Type 2 hood collects the extra heat and steam from the air, so kitchen staff feel comfortable and safe. They also help filter out odors, so the kitchen and surrounding areas smell fresher.

Another big benefit of Type 2 hoods is preventing mold and mildew. Kitchens have a lot of moisture. Without proper ventilation, that moisture can settle on walls or ceilings. Type 2 hoods reduce that risk by removing condensation before it causes issues.

You’ll usually find Type 2 hoods in bakeries, restaurants, and food service setups where appliances produce steam but no grease. 

What Is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Grease Ductwork?

The difference between Type 1 and Type 2 grease ductwork is the appliances they’re made for. Type 1 grease ductwork handles grease, smoke, and heat, while Type 2 ductwork handles steam, heat, and odors.

In particular, Type 1 grease ductwork is placed over cooking equipment that produces grease, smoke, and heat. These include fryers, griddles, ranges, and broilers. Grease is flammable and causes Class K fires, so this type of ductwork has strict requirements. 

Type 1 ductwork is built from heavy steel with minimum thickness standards. It should also be paired with a kitchen fire suppression system. In addition, Type 1 ducts include grease filters or extractors that keep grease buildup under control. They safely capture and exhaust grease-laden vapors while lowering the risk of fire.

On the other hand, Type 2 ductwork is placed over appliances that release heat, steam, or moisture. These include dishwashers, pasta cookers, ovens, and coffee machines. Since there’s no grease involved, Type 2 ducts don’t need fire suppression systems or grease filters. 

Instead, they focus on removing excess steam and moisture from the air. Some systems even have gutters or drains to deal with condensation and prevent water from collecting in the duct.

In a gist, use Type 1 ductwork if grease is present. If it’s just heat and steam, Type 2 is enough. 

Fire Safety Tools Matter, Too

While kitchen hoods do a lot to keep the air clear and safe, they’re your only line of defense. Having fire safety tools like fire blankets and fire sprays nearby is just as important. 

A Type 1 hood helps reduce kitchen grease fire risks, but accidents can still happen. That’s where a fire blanket comes in. It can smother small flames quickly without making a mess. A fire spray is another handy tool that quickly puts out flare-ups before they spread. 

Having these tools on hand adds extra peace of mind. Good ventilation, combined with the right fire gear, makes for a much safer kitchen.

Do you want reliable, easy-to-use, and affordable tools to put out small kitchen fires before they spread? Check out Prepared Hero’s fire prevention tools here, and get up to 51% off on certain items. 

What Does a Type 2 Hood Look Like?

A Type 2 hood looks like a canopy-style hood mounted above appliances that produce steam, heat, and odors but not grease. Unlike the bulkier Type 1 hood, it doesn’t have heavy grease filters or fire suppression systems. Instead, it has a wire mesh filter that captures non-grease particles and odors.

Most Type 2 hoods are built from heavy-duty stainless steel. This makes them durable and easy to clean, which is a must in a busy kitchen setting. Its design is practical, thanks to the full perimeter gutter that manages condensation and an exhaust riser that helps move steam and warm air out of the kitchen.

Some models may also include a perforated supply plenum, which helps bring in make-up air and improve ventilation. They usually don’t have extra features like lighting or fire suppression, since they’re not needed for non-grease appliances. Overall, a Type 2 hood looks sleek, simple, and functional. It’s built to keep kitchens cooler, drier, and more comfortable.

What Should a Type 2 Hood Be Installed Above?

A Type 2 hood should be installed above appliances that release heat, steam, and odors but don’t produce grease or smoke. That’s why they’re often called condensate hoods. You’ll usually see them placed over dishwashers, steamers, kettles, pasta cookers, steam tables, or coffee machines.

The main purpose of these hoods is to pull out excess moisture and heat from the kitchen. Without them, steam can build up, making the space hot and uncomfortable. It also raises the risk of mold and mildew. Unlike Type 1 hoods, they don’t need grease filters or fire suppression systems, as there’s no grease involved.

Type 2 hoods are made of durable materials like stainless steel, so they hold up well in busy kitchens and are easy to clean. Keep in mind that not every appliance needs one. For example, some under-counter dishwashers or units with built-in exhaust systems may not require a separate hood.

It’s always smart to check local codes since requirements can vary, especially with appliances like pizza ovens. In general, if the appliance gives off steam or heat but not grease, a Type 2 hood is the right choice.

How Many Types of Hoods Are There?

Kitchen hoods come in different styles and functions, and the right choice depends on where they’ll be installed and what they need to handle. In general, there are two main ways to categorize them: by installation type and by venting system. For commercial kitchens, there’s also a separate classification based on the kind of cooking equipment being used.

Here’s a breakdown:

Residential Installation Types

Here are the types of hoods based on how they’re installed in homes: 

1. Under-Cabinet Hoods

They’re mounted under kitchen cabinets to save space. Plus, they usually vent through the wall or cabinets.

2. Wall-Mount Hoods

As the term suggests, they’re installed directly on a wall, usually over a stove or cooktop.

3. Island Hoods

These are ceiling-mounted hoods for kitchens with a cooking island. They also double as a design feature.

4. Downdraft Hoods

They’re retractable units that pop up from behind the cooktop or countertop to capture smoke and steam.

5. Insert or Liner Hoods

They are installed inside a custom hood or cabinet for a more seamless look.

Venting Types

Here are the types of hoods based on their vents: 

1. Ducted or  Vented Hoods

They push smoke, odors, and grease outside through ductwork.

2. Ductless or Recirculating Hoods

They use filters to clean the air and then return it to the kitchen.

Commercial Kitchen Hoods

Here are the types of commercial kitchen hoods: 

1. Type 1 Hoods

This type of commercial kitchen hood is made for grease-producing equipment like fryers, griddles, and broilers. They require fire suppression systems and grease filters.

2. Type 2 Hoods

They’re made for non-grease appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and steamers. They focus on removing steam, heat, and odors.

So, when people ask how many types of hoods there are, the answer depends on context. In homes, you’ll mostly choose from five main styles, with ducted or ductless options. In commercial kitchens, it comes down to Type 1 or Type 2, depending on whether grease is involved.

Do Convection Ovens Need to Be Under a Hood?

Whether a convection oven needs to be under a hood depends on where it’s being used. The rules for homes are much more relaxed than the ones for commercial kitchens. 

Residential Convection Ovens

A convection oven in a home kitchen does not legally require a range hood. That’s because it doesn’t generate large amounts of grease or heavy smoke like fryers or grills do. However, having a hood is a smart move. While convection ovens are cleaner, they still give off odors, heat, and a bit of moisture. A hood helps keep the air fresh and makes the space more comfortable.

It’s also a nice backup for when things go wrong. If food burns, the hood can pull the smoke out before your whole kitchen fills up or your smoke detector goes off. If your convection oven is part of a range with a cooktop, a hood becomes more important. It’s because stovetop cooking creates grease and smoke that have to be vented.

Commercial Convection Ovens

The story changes in restaurants, food trucks, and other commercial kitchens. Strict safety standards and higher cooking volumes require convection ovens to be under a hood. If the oven produces grease or smoke, it usually falls under the requirement for a Type 1 hood. This type includes grease filters and a fire suppression system for added safety.

There are a few exceptions. Light-duty electric ovens that don’t produce grease may only need a Type 2 hood. Plus, some convection ovens are designed as ventless models. They use filters or catalytic converters to manage heat, smoke, and grease internally, so they don’t need an external hood.

Which Type of Hood Is Good?

The best type of hood depends on your setup and needs. But if we’re talking about overall effectiveness, ducted range hoods usually win. They vent air outside, which means smoke, odors, and moisture leave your kitchen for good. This keeps your air cleaner and your cooking space more comfortable.

That said, not every home can handle exterior ductwork. In that case, a ductless hood is a solid alternative. It filters the air and sends it back into the kitchen. While it doesn’t perform quite as well as a ducted system, it’s convenient and easy to install.

Here are the main hood types and why they might work for you:

• Ducted Range Hoods: Most effective at removing pollutants, but need outside venting.
• Ductless Range Hoods: Excellent option if ducting isn’t possible, but less powerful.
• Wall-Mounted Hoods: Stylish, functional, and great for traditional setups.
• Under-Cabinet Hoods: Space-saving and practical for smaller kitchens
• Island Hoods: Best for open kitchens with island cooktops. 
• Downdraft Hoods: Sleek, retractable option that hides when not in use.

In short, the best hood for you depends on your kitchen layout, whether you can vent outside, and how much style or function you want. 

Do Type 2 Vents Need Fire Suppression?

Type 2 vents don’t usually need a fire suppression system because they’re made for handling steam, heat, and odors, not grease. They’re usually installed over appliances like dishwashers, ovens, or coffee machines, which don’t create grease-laden vapors that pose a fire risk. That’s why you’ll find fire suppression tied to Type 1 hoods, not Type 2.

Still, rules can vary depending on your local codes and the kind of equipment in use. Some areas may have extra requirements for non-grease appliances. The safest move is to check local laws so you know you’re meeting the right standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hood depends on what appliances you’re using and the rules in your area. Type 1 hoods handle grease and need fire suppression, while Type 2 hoods deal with heat and steam. Knowing the difference keeps your kitchen safe, comfortable, and code-compliant. Stay safe, hero!