I assume by extractor you mean a exhaust fan? I use mine a lot, to keep heat down, you probably don't have a big problem with that. But there is the smell issue. I do not make things that are deep fried or involve fish, or cabbage boiled for 5 hours. If someone did that, yes, I could see a huge problem.

how about a down draft one?

It's the steam and condensation that worries me more but I live in an old house and am a bit paranoid about damp. I confess I tend to open the kitchen door more often than I use the extractor. However, having had the whole house decorated in one go, I can see the effect of grease building up on woodwork in the kitchen. I should point out I do clean them regularly (!) but I can see the difference in colour compared to other rooms.

Having bought and sold property recently, it would be something that could potentially knock the price down or put some buyers off, especially if you are having difficulty fitting one in then so will someone else.

Hi, I'm not a fan of extractors either! I see your point though. The ones that rise out of the work surface as in the picture) are quite effective and they are totally hidden away when not in use. I think this would be the best option if you decided to have one. They don't detract from the rest of the kitchen and are very discreet.

Hi Alant1000,

An extractor not only helps to remove odours from cooking but it also makes cleaning the kitchen easier, removing some of the grease that would otherwise settle throughout the room.

Extractors do however come in many shapes and sizes, in terms of aesthetics you could opt for a pendant extractor which appears as a pendant light or you could choose a downdraft extractor, which will be hidden within the worktop.

It's difficult to give you a definitive answer but we certainly design all our clients' kitchens with appropriate extraction. If you would like more information about the importance of extraction and the different options there are for extractors please do read our blog - Extraction: the secret to a clean kitchen and odour-free home.

Hope this helps.

Kindest regards, Davonport.

Hello alant1000,

I'd say it's really really good to have one... Even if you don't have full external extraction but opt for charcoal filters.. It's still far more appealing to have. Smells, fat and steam would otherwise permeate other areas of your home, especially if it's open plan... : ))

hi Alant100 - we have the same issue and are going for a "cloud" effect with recessed extractor to overcome it - no idea if the builders can do it yet but that's the solution we think will work though how low it's going to comes a worry. Would love to hear how you get on.

is there any way of making them look less term "bathroomy" drpepe, i guess it would save a lot of expense however i really don't like the look of them.