When it comes to household appliances like range hoods, noise level matters. If you’ve ever wondered about the sound your range hood makes and encountered the term “sones,” you’re not alone. Sones are a unit of measurement used to quantify the sound output of ventilation systems, including range hoods. Understanding sones can provide valuable insight into the noise levels of your kitchen’s ventilation.
What Are Sones?
Sones gauge the perceived loudness of a sound. Unlike decibels, which measure sound intensity objectively, sones measure how loud a sound seems to the average listener. In simple terms, the lower the sone rating, the quieter the device.
Range Hood Noise Levels
Range hoods come in various styles and sizes, each with its own sone rating. A standard conversation between two people registers at around 4 sones, providing a reference point for understanding different sound levels. A quieter range hood might operate at 1 to 2 sones, while a louder one could reach 6 or more sones during operation.
Locating Sone Information
Finding the sone rating for your range hood might require a bit of detective work. Manufacturers typically provide this information in the product specifications, user manual, or sometimes on a label affixed to the hood itself. If you’re unable to locate the sone rating, reaching out to the manufacturer or checking their website can often provide the necessary details.
Why Sones Matter
The noise level of your range hood can significantly impact your kitchen experience. Lower sone ratings ensure quieter operation, reducing disruptions during cooking or meal gatherings. For open-plan layouts where the kitchen integrates with living or dining areas, a quieter range hood can be especially desirable.
Interpreting Sone Ratings
Understanding sone ratings allows you to make informed decisions when purchasing or using a range hood. Keep in mind that a difference of one or two sones might seem subtle, but it can significantly affect the perceived noise level. Consider your preferences and the layout of your home when selecting a range hood.
In most cases, the higher the CFM, the higher the sone level of the range hood. So, if you want a quieter hood and don’t cook often, purchase a 450 CFM range hood.
However, if you cook a lot of greasy, fried, or Asian food – or simply cook often – invest in a 900+ CFM range hood. It will be louder than low-CFM hoods, but it will have more power too, which is ideal to clean your kitchen air efficiently.
Post time: Nov-16-2023
