Considerations

*Location and space available: The manufacturer's guidelines must be followed to set the rangehood at the appropriate height above the cooktop or stove. A minimum height of 600 mm and a maximum of 800 mm is often recommended, but requirements for gas and electric ranges can vary.
*The width of the rangehood required, relates directly to the width of the cooktop. Manufacturers give guidelines as to rangehood size and suitability.
*Efficiency of exhaust.
*Lighting effectiveness.
*Noise level.
*Ducting to outside wall or recirculating models requirements.
*Cost to purchase, install and run.
*Warranty length and conditions.

Controls
Note: Because of the height requirements of rangehoods, they may be difficult to reach when sitting: - The use of an 'easireacher' and a retractable model rangehood with an automatic setting that turns it on / off when it is pulled out / in may assist.
*Controls should be able to be viewed and reached easily -
*Soft touch pads, rocker type switches and dials are available.
Controls are located in a variety of positions - at the front and the rear of the hood.
*Automatic programming to cut off / switch on while sliding in / out can
assist - this must be preset initially.

For further information check choice magazine, the Yellow Pages of the telephone book or talk to a retailer.
We are interested to receive feedback on the information we provide...
If there is something we should add or need to change, please let us know.
These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable difficulty in performing activities of daily living, consult an occupational therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team or make an appointment with the ILC.

Models

On the Wall models:
Freestanding design over cook top. Easy installation. Can also be built underneath cabinets as an appealing feature of the kitchen design.
Slide out models:
Under cupboard design with interchangeable front fascia to suit kitchen decor.
Integrated models:
Designed to be built into the kitchen cabinet so the rangehood is unseen.

Features

*Variable fan speed or a number of set fan speeds.
*Indicator lights.
*Safety feature - fire cut out at 80 degrees centigrade.
*Slimline - designed to fit in a cupboard.
*Glass visor.
*Fan delay off option.
*Filter clean indicator.

Maintenance

Cleaning
Grease filters should be easily reached, removed and replaced. Some are suitable for washing in the dishwasher, otherwise washing by hand is required. Recirculating designs can have charcoal filters that require replacing.

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.