What is the Difference Between Laboratory CFM vs. Equivalent CFM?
In the market for a new range hood? You might be wondering about CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. CFM is used to measure the airflow efficiency of range hoods, which may indicate how well they capture grease and remove smoke and odors from the kitchen. However, CFM is difficult to interpret at face value due to the lack of standardization across manufacturers and testing environments.
How Does CFM Work?
CFM quantifies the volume of air a range hood can move in one minute. The metric can be useful for comparing a range hood’s performance. The critical word in that statement is “can.” One of the challenges with interpreting CFM ratings is that they can vary a great deal based on where and how they are measured. There’s no universal standard for CFM.
Different laboratories and testing conditions can yield diverse results. Even minor adjustments, such as changing the ventilation setups or opening windows, can affect CFM readings. This lack of consistency makes it difficult to directly compare CFM ratings from different manufacturers.
Lab CFM vs. Equivalent CFM
So, to make things clearer for our customers, we use two different CFM measurements at Hauslane.
1. Lab CFM (Maximum Airflow Capacity): This measurement reflects the maximum airflow capacity of a range hood when tested in a controlled environment. It ensures that external factors, such as open windows or vents, do not influence the results. Lab CFM provides a baseline for understanding a range hood’s capabilities.
2. Equivalent CFM: This measurement evaluates a range hood’s performance at its highest fan speed, directly comparing it against competitors. Equivalent CFM offers insights into real-world scenarios, showcasing how a range hood performs under typical kitchen conditions. This metric is particularly useful for understanding practical performance and comparing different models in everyday use.
Note: When determining compliance with installation codes or regulations, such as in building codes, lab CFM is typically the reference point used.
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Choosing the Right CFM Rating
With varying CFM ratings, it can be difficult to identify which range hood is right for you. Here’s the thing:a higher CFM rating doesn’t always mean better performance. Other factors like hood design and ducting efficiency also play crucial roles. At Hauslane, we categorize our range hoods based on cooking needs and techniques. Whether you're a casual cook or a gourmet chef, our range hood tiers are designed to match your specific requirements.
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