Stepping into a bustling kitchen, one often faces the challenge of lingering odors, stubborn grease, and stifling smoke. A powerful range hood is not just an appliance; it’s the guardian of your kitchen’s air quality and comfort. For those who engage in serious, heavy-duty cooking, the Hauslane Chef Series PS18 stands out as a formidable solution. This review delves into why the PS18, with its robust suction and thoughtful design, has become a favored choice for culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs alike. We will explore its key features, performance, and practical considerations to help you determine if this powerhouse is the perfect fit for your cooking space.
The Powerhouse: Unpacking the Hauslane PS18’s Suction Capabilities
Table is empty.At the heart of any effective range hood lies its suction power, measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). This metric indicates how much air the unit can move in a given time, directly correlating to its ability to clear smoke, steam, and odors. The Hauslane Chef Series PS18 boasts an impressive 860 CFM, positioning it firmly in the heavy-duty category. This substantial airflow is crucial for kitchens where high-heat cooking, such as frying, searing, or wok-style dishes, is a regular occurrence.
The PS18 achieves this remarkable suction through powerful dual motors, designed to efficiently capture and remove airborne contaminants before they spread throughout your home. This level of performance ensures that even the most intense cooking sessions leave your kitchen air clean and fresh. “For truly heavy cooking, anything less than 800 CFM is often a compromise,” states a seasoned kitchen appliance technician. “The PS18 delivers the raw power needed to tackle anything you throw at it.” The ability to clear smoke and grease effectively not only keeps your kitchen cleaner but also contributes to a healthier cooking environment by reducing the inhalation of harmful particles.
Design & Aesthetics: A Blend of Form and Function
Beyond its raw power, the Hauslane PS18 is crafted with a keen eye for modern kitchen aesthetics. Its sleek, under-cabinet design integrates seamlessly, offering a contemporary appeal that complements various kitchen styles. The unit is available in several attractive finishes, including classic stainless steel, sophisticated matte black, and crisp matte white, with some variations also listing black stainless steel. This variety allows homeowners to choose a finish that best matches their existing appliances and decor.
Controlling the PS18 is an intuitive experience, thanks to its digital display and buttonless touchscreen control panel. This design not only enhances the hood’s minimalist appearance but also simplifies cleaning, as there are no crevices for grease to accumulate. The integrated LED lighting system provides essential illumination over your cooking surface. Featuring two 2700K warm LED lights (GU10 bulbs), they cast a pleasant glow, and for those desiring a different ambiance, these bulbs are easily replaceable to match your kitchen’s specific lighting scheme. This thoughtful combination of style and user-friendliness makes the PS18 a standout in its class.
Customization and Control: Six Speeds for Every Culinary Task
Every cooking endeavor is unique, requiring varying levels of ventilation. Recognizing this, the Hauslane PS18 offers an exceptional degree of control with its six-speed fan settings. From a gentle whisper-quiet setting for simmering delicate sauces to the full-throttle 860 CFM for high-heat wok cooking, you can precisely adjust the suction power to match your needs. This versatility is paramount for maintaining optimal air quality without excessive noise when it’s not required.
The intuitive digital control panel makes switching between these speeds effortless, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments during cooking. Furthermore, the PS18 includes an auto shut-off, or delay shutoff, function. This smart feature allows the hood to continue running for a set period after you’ve finished cooking, ensuring all residual odors and steam are cleared before automatically powering down. This convenience is invaluable, especially when you have your hands full or simply forget to turn it off, making daily use seamless and energy-efficient.
Installation and Venting Versatility
Installing a range hood is a critical step to ensure its optimal performance. The Hauslane Chef Series PS18 is an under-cabinet model, designed to fit snugly beneath your kitchen cabinetry. It’s available in both 30-inch and 36-inch widths, making it suitable for a variety of cooktop sizes. One of the standout features of the PS18 is its highly versatile 3-way venting system. This means it can be configured for vertical 6-inch round, vertical 3-1/4 inch by 10-inch rectangular, or horizontal 3-1/4 inch by 10-inch rectangular ductwork. This adaptability is a significant advantage, as it simplifies installation by accommodating existing ducting arrangements in many homes, potentially saving both time and money.
It’s important to note that due to its robust construction and powerful motors, the PS18 is a relatively heavy unit. While DIY installation is possible, it is often recommended to enlist the help of a professional or at least a second person for safety and efficiency. Proper installation is key to maximizing the hood’s performance and ensuring long-term reliability.
Maintenance Made Easy: Keeping Your Kitchen Clean
A powerful range hood is only as good as its maintenance. Grease and grime are inevitable by-products of cooking, and cleaning filters can often be a dreaded chore. The Hauslane PS18 addresses this concern with its durable, stainless steel baffle filters. These professional-grade filters are not only highly effective at trapping grease but are also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup remarkably simple.
“The ease of maintenance is a huge selling point for busy home cooks,” remarks a long-time kitchen technician. “Simply pop the baffle filters in the dishwasher, and they come out sparkling clean, ready to perform again.” The sleek exterior of the PS18, available in various finishes, is also designed for easy wiping, ensuring that your range hood remains pristine with minimal effort. This focus on user-friendly maintenance ensures that the PS18 continues to operate at peak efficiency, protecting your kitchen from grease buildup and maintaining a hygienic cooking environment.
Addressing Common Concerns: Noise and Make-Up Air
While the Hauslane PS18 offers impressive suction, it’s essential to address common user queries regarding noise levels. Some reviews indicate that the unit, particularly on higher settings, can be “not extremely quiet” or “pretty loud.” This is often a trade-off for such powerful suction; moving 860 CFM of air will inherently generate some sound. However, Hauslane has incorporated a “uniquely designed duct system and dual motor” aiming to reduce airflow noises, allowing for conversation during cooking. Users generally agree that while there’s noise, it’s typically a byproduct of effective ventilation.
Another crucial consideration for high-CFM range hoods, especially for those with gas stoves, is the requirement for a make-up air system. Building codes in many regions mandate a make-up air system for range hoods with CFM ratings above 400. Since the PS18 operates at 860 CFM, it’s highly likely that a make-up air system will be necessary to ensure proper ventilation, prevent backdrafting, and maintain indoor air quality. Consulting with a local HVAC professional is recommended to understand and comply with your specific building codes.
Hauslane PS18 at a Glance: Pros and Cons
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Suction | 860 CFM, dual motors, excellent for heavy-duty cooking. | Higher settings can be noisy. |
| Control | 6-speed settings, digital touchscreen, delay shutoff. | None notable. |
| Design | Sleek, under-cabinet, multiple finishes (stainless steel, matte black, matte white), LED lighting. | Unit is heavy, potentially requiring professional installation assistance. |
| Venting | 3-way convertible venting options. | None notable. |
| Maintenance | Dishwasher-safe baffle filters, easy-to-wipe surfaces. | None notable. |
| Overall | Durable, powerful, good value, limited lifetime warranty. | May require a make-up air system for compliance, particularly with gas ranges (due to high CFM). |
> “The PS18 offers an exceptional balance of brute force and refined features. While powerful hoods naturally produce some sound, its efficacy in clearing the air is undeniable.” – Admin, Reviewike.com, Kitchen Ventilation Specialist
Is the Hauslane PS18 Right for Your Kitchen? A Buying Guide
Choosing the right range hood involves considering your unique cooking habits, kitchen setup, and budget. Here’s how the Hauslane PS18 aligns with common buying considerations:
- Ngân sách (Budget): The Hauslane PS18 is generally considered a good investment, offering high-end features and performance at a competitive price point for its category.
- Nhu cầu sử dụng (Cooking Needs): If you frequently cook dishes that produce a lot of smoke, grease, or strong odors—think stir-fries, deep-frying, or grilling indoors—the PS18’s heavy-duty 860 CFM suction is precisely what you need. It’s overkill for light cooking.
- Không gian bếp (Kitchen Space): As an under-cabinet model, the PS18 integrates well into kitchens aiming for a streamlined look. Ensure you measure your cooktop space accurately, as it comes in 30-inch and 36-inch widths to match standard stove sizes.
- Thương hiệu (Brand Reputation): Hauslane is recognized for producing high-performance range hoods. The limited lifetime warranty on the PS18 speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability and quality.
- Địa điểm mua (Purchase Location): For the best experience, purchase from reputable retailers that offer good customer service and robust warranty support.
Conclusion
The Hauslane Chef Series PS18 range hood lives up to its promise of heavy-duty suction, offering an outstanding solution for any kitchen plagued by cooking fumes and grease. With its formidable 860 CFM dual motors, versatile 6-speed controls, and a sleek, easy-to-maintain design, it provides an exceptional balance of power, aesthetics, and user-friendliness. While its powerful operation might come with a noticeable sound at higher settings, and a make-up air system might be a necessary addition, the benefits of a consistently fresh and clean kitchen environment are undeniable. For those committed to serious cooking, the PS18 is an investment that truly enhances the culinary experience. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a professional-grade cooking sanctuary?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CFM of the Hauslane Chef Series PS18?
The Hauslane Chef Series PS18 boasts an impressive 860 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) of suction power. This high airflow rating makes it ideal for heavy-duty cooking, efficiently removing smoke, grease, and strong odors from your kitchen.
Is the Hauslane PS18 noisy?
While designed with noise reduction in mind, the Hauslane PS18, like most high-CFM Range Hoods, can produce noticeable sound, especially on its higher settings. Users have described it as “pretty loud” at times, a typical trade-off for its powerful ventilation capabilities.
How do I clean the Hauslane PS18 filters?
The Hauslane PS18 features stainless steel baffle filters that are incredibly easy to clean. Simply remove them from the unit and place them in your dishwasher for a hassle-free cleaning experience. The exterior is also designed for quick wiping.
What are the venting options for the Hauslane PS18?
The Hauslane PS18 offers a versatile 3-way venting system. You can choose from vertical 6-inch round, vertical 3-1/4 inch by 10-inch rectangular, or horizontal 3-1/4 inch by 10-inch rectangular exhaust options, accommodating various existing ductwork configurations.
Is the Hauslane PS18 suitable for gas ranges?
Yes, the Hauslane PS18 is suitable for gas ranges, especially those used for heavy-duty cooking. However, due to its high 860 CFM, you may need to install a make-up air system to comply with local building codes, which often apply to hoods above 400 CFM.
What colors does the Hauslane PS18 come in?
The Hauslane PS18 is available in several stylish finishes to match your kitchen’s aesthetic. These options typically include stainless steel, matte black, and matte white, providing flexibility to integrate seamlessly with your decor.
