Can I install a downdraft extractor instead of a range hood? (Kitchen | Appliances & Fixtures)

If you’ve been scrolling through luxury kitchen photos on Instagram or YouTube recently, you’ve probably seen those sleek cooktops where steam magically disappears downwards instead of flying up into a big metal canopy. And you might be thinking: “Hang on… can I install one of those in my Sydney kitchen instead of a normal range hood?”

The short answer: Yes, you can.
The real answer: Yes, but only if your kitchen layout, cabinetry, ventilation path and cooking style work with it.

Downdraft extractors are modern, stylish, clever and space-saving—but they also come with a few technical considerations that Sydney homeowners should understand before ditching the classic overhead hood.

Let’s break it all down in a clear, fun and very Sydney way.

1. What exactly is a downdraft extractor?

A downdraft extractor is a ventilation system that pulls fumes, steam, odours and smoke downwards through a vent built into the cooktop or benchtop. Instead of having an overhead range hood, the extractor sits:

• behind the cooktop (pop-up model)

• beside the cooktop (side-draft model)

• or integrated inside the induction cooktop (built-in downdraft cooktop)

These systems use powerful motors to suck steam horizontally or downward, then push it through ducting under the benchtop.

They’re like the ninjas of kitchen ventilation—quiet, hidden, sleek and ready to impress your guests.

2. Why are downdraft extractors becoming popular in Sydney?

Sydney homeowners love two things: smart technology and clean aesthetics. And downdraft systems hit both targets perfectly.

Here’s why they’re trending:

A. Perfect for open-plan living

Sydney homes—especially newer builds in suburbs like Marsden Park, Kellyville, Bexley, Ryde and Alexandria—love open-plan kitchens. Downdrafts keep the space airy without a big appliance hanging in the middle.

B. Ideal for kitchen islands

Islands are the supermodel of the kitchen world. Nobody wants a bulky range hood blocking the view. Downdrafts allow:

• free sightlines

• better social interaction

• clean, modern design

Imagine cooking while chatting with friends without ducking under a metal canopy. Very Sydney.

C. Great for minimalist interior design

If your kitchen style is:

• Scandinavian

• contemporary

• coastal

• minimalist

• mid-century

• Japanese-inspired

…a downdraft system keeps the design clean and clutter-free.

D. Works well with premium induction cooktops

Many brands now produce cooktops with integrated downdraft systems, which look incredibly sleek on engineered stone or porcelain benchtops.

3. So can you actually replace a range hood with a downdraft extractor in Sydney?

Yes—but not always straightforwardly. Here’s what you need to consider in terms of Sydney home layouts and renovation rules.

4. How downdraft extractors perform in real Sydney kitchens

This is where things get interesting.

Downdraft extractors work best when:

• your pots are not too tall

• you mostly cook on front burners

• you cook low-steam and low-smoke foods

• you have a good ducting pathway below the bench

But they can struggle with:

• wok cooking (high heat + lots of steam)

• deep frying

• cooking with tall stockpots

• very smoky cooking (BBQ-style pans)

• kitchens where long duct runs are required

Let’s be honest: Sydney loves stir-fries. If your household frequently does high-heat wok cooking, a traditional canopy or under-mount range hood may still outperform a downdraft system.

5. Ventilation rules and approvals in Sydney

In NSW, there are no restrictions preventing you from installing a downdraft extractor. It’s completely allowed as long as:

• the unit is installed correctly

• ducting meets manufacturer requirements

• there is no venting into prohibited spaces (like roof voids)

Sydney homes often have:

• concrete slabs

• tricky underfloor spaces

• shared walls (apartments)

So your airflow path needs to be planned strategically.

6. The ducting challenge: the biggest factor in Sydney installations

Downdraft extractors need space under the benchtop for:

• the motor

• ducting

• bends

• vents

Sydney homes vary wildly, so let’s look at the common scenarios.

A. Houses on slab (common in Western Sydney)

If your home sits on a concrete slab, downdraft ducting must run:

• horizontally through the cabinetry

• out the back wall

• or into an external vent

This can reduce cabinet storage.

B. Two-storey homes with kitchens on the upper floor

Ducting can run through:

• floor joists

• wall cavities

• external walls

But must avoid services and structural beams.

C. Apartments or terraces

This is where things get tricky. In many Sydney apartments:

• modifying concrete slabs is prohibited

• ventilation options are limited

• recirculating models may be the only solution

Recirculating downdrafts work but aren’t as powerful as ducted ones.

7. Pros of downdraft extractors

A. Beautiful, unobstructed design

Your kitchen looks more spacious and modern.

B. Perfect for island cooktops

Great for social cooking and entertaining.

C. Compact and space-saving

No bulky canopy or undermount taking up headspace.

D. Smart technology

Many models include:

• touch controls

• automatic sensors

• variable speed settings

• quiet operation

E. Easy to clean

No overhead surfaces collecting grease.

8. Cons of downdraft extractors

A. Less powerful at capturing steam from tall pots

Steam rises—physics doesn’t care about aesthetics.

B. Cabinetry must be custom-modified

Space is needed for ducting, motors and filters.

C. Recirculating models are not as effective

Especially with stronger-smelling foods.

D. More expensive than standard hoods

Both the unit and installation cost more.

E. Some layouts simply cannot support them

Especially apartments with no external venting pathway.

9. How to decide if a downdraft extractor is right for your Sydney kitchen renovation

Ask yourself:

1. Do you cook often with tall pots, stir-fries or smoky pans?

If yes → a traditional hood might be better.

2. Is your cooktop on an island?

If yes → downdraft is a strong option.

3. Do you want a minimalist, open-plan design?

Downdraft = excellent choice.

4. Is your home built on a slab?

Check ducting feasibility with a designer or builder.

5. Are you renovating a small kitchen?

Downdraft might free up headspace and make the room look bigger.

6. In an apartment?

You may need a recirculating model.

10. Sydney trend forecast: Are downdraft extractors the future?

Sydney is slowly leaning toward downdraft systems—especially in high-end builds, architectural homes and luxury apartments. But they still aren’t replacing traditional range hoods entirely.

Here’s the current trend breakdown:

• High-end homes: many choose downdraft for aesthetic reasons

• Mid-range renovations: range hoods still dominate due to cost + performance

• Apartment renovations: downdraft may be limited by ducting restrictions

• Families that cook a lot: usually keep a canopy or undermount hood

• Minimalist + designer kitchens: downdraft is a favourite

So yes—you can absolutely install a downdraft extractor instead of a range hood in Sydney. But whether you should depends on your cooking style, budget, and the engineering of your home.

Bottom line

Downdraft extractors are stylish, modern and incredibly convenient—perfect for island cooktops, open-plan spaces and contemporary Sydney kitchen designs. They can replace a traditional range hood, but only if the layout, ducting and cooking habits align.

Think of downdrafts like the Teslas of kitchen ventilation: amazing technology, clean aesthetics, and very cool to show guests—but not ideal for every single household.

Visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information about kitchen renovation, bathroom renovation and laundry room renovation services from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.