What is a Venting Hob?
A venting hob is a two-in-one kitchen appliance that combines an induction or ceramic cooktop with a built-in extractor fan. Instead of installing a separate cooker hood, the ventilation is integrated directly into the hob surface, offering a minimalist and space-saving solution for modern homes.
Perfect for open-plan kitchens, kitchen islands, or apartments where space is at a premium, venting hobs are rapidly gaining popularity across the UK and Europe.
Do Venting Hobs Need Ducting?
Not always. While some venting hobs can be ducted to the outside, many models are designed for recirculating operation — meaning you don’t need to install ducting to an external wall.
Instead, these hobs use internal ducting under the countertop, where the air is pulled down through a carbon filter system, purified, and then recirculated back into the kitchen. This setup makes them ideal for apartments, kitchen islands, or homes where external ducting isn't possible.
Why the Filter Matters
If you're using a recirculating venting hob, the filter quality becomes crucial. Most standard models on the market use basic activated carbon filters, which do an okay job of neutralizing odors and grease — but they require frequent replacement and aren't as effective at removing finer particles or bacteria.
Plasma⁺ Filter: The Superior Choice
For the best performance, we recommend choosing a Plasma⁺ filtration system. Here's why it stands out:
| Filter Type | Odor Removal | Bacteria Removal | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Carbon Filter | Moderate | ✖️ | ~3-6 months | Needs frequent change |
| Advanced Carbon Filter | Good | Limited | ~6-12 months | Still needs replacing |
| Plasma⁺ Filter | Excellent | ✅ Kills bacteria | Up to 15 years | No regular replacing |
The Plasma⁺ system uses a combination of high voltage plasma, UV-C light, and ozone management to:
- Remove odors at a molecular level
- Neutralize bacteria, viruses, and allergens
- Eliminate smoke and grease without clogging
Related: What is Plasma⁺ & how it works?
Types of Venting Hob: Which One Suits Your Kitchen?
Here’s a breakdown of venting hob types by size, flexibility, and performance features:
60cm Venting Hob – Compact & Efficient
Ideal for smaller kitchens or standard-sized countertops, 60cm venting hobs offer excellent space-saving while delivering strong performance.
- 4 cooking zones
- Booster function available
- Does not feature FlexZone
- Suitable for small to mid-size households
- Integrated extraction system (recirculating or ducted)
- Touch control interface
Perfect for: Apartments, compact kitchens, minimalistic layouts.
76cm Venting Hob – Balanced Versatility
This mid-size option offers more cooking space than a 60cm unit but is still compact enough for most kitchens.
- 4 cooking zones
- Booster function available
- FlexZone support – allows you to combine two zones for larger pots or griddles.
- Modern slider touch control
- Efficient built-in extractor with recirculating option
Perfect for: Families, passionate home cooks, and those who want a balance of size and flexibility.
83cm Venting Hob – Premium Size & Performance
A wider, high-performance venting hob for larger countertops or kitchen islands. Offers more room and flexibility for multitasking in the kitchen.
- Model: CBBEH834BBFF
- 4 cooking zones
- FlexZone included
- Booster function on all zones
- Ideal for large cookware and multi-dish preparation
- High airflow extraction and Plasma+ filter compatible
Perfect for: Larger kitchens, open-plan spaces, and those who cook frequently or for big families.
What is FlexZone?
FlexZone allows two adjacent cooking zones to be combined into one large cooking area. It’s perfect for:
Griddle pans
Roasting trays
Cooking with large pots or multiple small pans at once
With FlexZone, the hob detects pan size and shape, offering uniform heating and greater flexibility.
What is Booster Function?
The Booster provides a quick power surge to bring water to a boil or sear food faster. It temporarily increases power beyond the usual maximum level — a must-have for time-saving cooking.
Do Downdraft Hobs Work?
Yes, downdraft hobs absolutely work — and they work very well.
A downdraft hob, also known as a venting hob, combines an induction cooktop with an integrated downward extractor, pulling steam and cooking vapors directly down from the source before they can spread through the kitchen.
How Does a Downdraft Hob Work?
Induction Cooking
Downdraft hobs typically use induction heating, which works through electromagnetic fields. When you place an induction-compatible pan on the zone, the hob generates heat directly in the base of the cookware — not the glass surface.
- Fast, energy-efficient, and precise
- Safer, since the hob only heats when a pan is detected
- Easy to clean – only the pan gets hot, so spills don’t burn onto the surface
Integrated Extraction System
Right in the center (or back) of the hob is a built-in extractor fan. When you start cooking, the fan pulls down steam, smoke, and odours through a vent below the worktop, passing through filters before recirculating the clean air or venting it outside (depending on the installation type).
Is the Extraction Powerful Enough?
Yes — in fact, many downdraft hobs offer extraction performance similar to traditional cooker hoods.
Modern venting hobs often deliver airflow rates between 400–700 m³/h, which is comparable to or even better than standard wall-mounted hoods.
So whether you're boiling, frying, or grilling, a high-quality downdraft hob:
- Removes steam and odours effectively
- Prevents grease build-up on walls and cabinets
- Keeps your kitchen fresh and clean
Key Advantages of Downdraft Hobs
Space-saving design – no bulky overhead hood
Perfect for kitchen islands and open-plan layouts
Modern and minimalist aesthetic
Improved airflow control – extraction starts at the source
Easy to maintain, with removable grease filters and optional long-life Plasma+ filters
Best Venting Induction Hob- Ciarra ONE
When it comes to choosing the best venting induction hob, the Ciarra ONE Series stands out as a top-tier solution for modern, eco-conscious kitchens. More than just a cooking appliance, it’s a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and environmental responsibility.
Let’s explore what sets the Ciarra ONE apart from other venting hobs on the market — and why it’s considered one of the best in its category.
1. Advanced Filtration: Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Most venting hobs on the market use basic activated carbon filters that require regular replacement (every 3–6 months). Not only is this costly over time, but it also generates waste — both of which are concerns for the modern, environmentally aware consumer.
Ciarra ONE uses a proprietary Plasma⁺ filtration system, which delivers:
- Long-lasting performance – up to 15 years without needing replacement
- High-efficiency air purification – removes smoke, odours, bacteria, and fine particles
- Zero-waste design – no disposable filters = less environmental impact
- Ozone management system – safely neutralizes residual ozone for clean, breathable air
This filter technology not only keeps your kitchen fresh — it also supports long-term energy efficiency and sustainability goals, making it a perfect choice for green-minded households.
2. Flexible Size Options to Suit Any Kitchen
Unlike many brands that offer a single size, Ciarra ONE is available in both 59cm and 83cm versions:
- 59cm – Ideal for compact kitchens, apartments, or minimalist designs
- 83cm – Perfect for larger worktops, open-plan kitchens, or families that cook frequently
Whether you're renovating a small studio or building a spacious family kitchen, Ciarra gives you the freedom to choose the size that fits your lifestyle — without compromising on performance.
3. Packed with Smart, User-Friendly Features
Ciarra ONE doesn’t just look modern — it thinks modern. Equipped with a range of smart features, it makes cooking safer, faster, and more convenient:
- FlexZone – Merge two zones into one for large pans, griddles, or roasting trays
- Booster Function – Instantly heats up your cookware to save time
- Child Lock – Prevents accidental changes, ideal for families with young children
- Residual Heat Indicators – For added safety and energy savings
- Touch-Slider Controls – Intuitive operation and precise temperature adjustment
- Easy-to-clean surface – Flat ceramic glass, scratch-resistant and elegant
Everything about the Ciarra ONE is designed for today’s smart, busy kitchens — where efficiency and peace of mind matter most.
Why Choose Ciarra ONE Over Other Brands?
| Feature | Ciarra ONE | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Life Filter | ✅ Plasma⁺ (up to 15 years) | ❌ Carbon (replace every 3–6 months) |
| Environmental Sustainability | ✅ Low-waste, energy efficient | ❌ Higher waste, higher cost |
| Size Options | ✅ 59cm & 83cm | ❌ Often limited to one size |
| Smart Features | ✅ Booster, FlexZone, Child Lock | ⚠️ Basic or limited |
| Design | ✅ Sleek, minimalist, flush-fit | ⚠️ Bulky or less refined |
What's Included: Plasma/UV/Carbon filter+Ducting kits
Venting Hob Installation
Installing a venting hob may seem complex at first, but with the right preparation, it's a straightforward process. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started. You can also watch the detailed installation video below, which walks you through each part of the process.
⚠️ Important Note: If you’re not experienced with electrical work, we strongly recommend consulting a licensed electrician to complete the wiring safely.
Watch the Installation Video Below
To make the process even easier, we’ve provided a step-by-step video tutorial below. Follow along visually to see how each part fits together:
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Step 1: Confirm Product Size & Cut-out Dimensions
Before cutting your countertop, make sure you know which Ciarra model you’ve purchased, as each model requires a different cut-out size:
| Product Size | Model Width | Cut-out Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 390mm | 350 × 450 mm |
| Medium | 590mm | 560 × 490 mm |
| Large | 830mm | 800 × 490 mm |
Measure carefully to ensure a snug fit into your worktop.
Step 2: Install the Ducting and Filter System
Once the hob is properly positioned, it’s time to install the ducting below the worktop. This includes:
- Measuring your available cabinet depth and height
- Cutting the ducting to fit your kitchen layout
- Connecting the filter system – either a carbon filter or Ciarra’s Plasma⁺ filter (for recirculation mode)
Make sure there is enough space for airflow and that the duct path is not blocked or bent too sharply.
Step 3: Electrical Connection
After the hob and ducting are in place, the final step is to connect the hob to the power supply. Ciarra venting hobs operate on the following specifications:
- Voltage/Frequency: 220–240V / 50–60Hz
- Rated Fuse: 32 amps
How Do You Clean the Venting Hob?
Cleaning your venting hob properly is essential to keep it working efficiently and looking like new. The good news is: it’s easier than you think, especially if you own a Ciarra ONE model, which is designed with user-friendly maintenance in mind.
Here’s a complete guide to keeping your venting hob spotless and performing at its best.
1. Clean the Induction Surface Daily
Just like any induction cooktop, the glass surface of a venting hob should be cleaned after each use.
Tips for Cleaning the Glass Surface:
Let the hob cool completely before cleaning.
Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm soapy water to wipe down the surface.
For stubborn stains or burnt food, use a ceramic hob scraper at a shallow angle.
Avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals – they may scratch the glass.
Finish with a microfiber cloth to polish and remove streaks.
2. Remove & Clean the Air Intake Grill (Ciarra ONE Exclusive)
One of the standout features of the Ciarra ONE venting hob is the removable air intake grill.
This grill can be easily detached from the hob surface.
It is dishwasher-safe, making it incredibly easy to clean.
You can also hand-wash it with warm water and mild detergent if preferred.
Tip: Clean the grill weekly or after heavy cooking sessions to prevent grease buildup and maintain strong airflow.
3. Clean or Maintain the Filter System
Depending on the type of filter your venting hob uses:
If it’s a standard carbon filter:
Remove it as per the user manual instructions.
If you have the Ciarra ONE with Plasma⁺ filter:
No regular replacement needed.
Just wipe down the accessible ducting and surrounding area occasionally to prevent dust build-up.
Enjoy maintenance-free filtration for up to 15 years.
Perfect for Modern Lifestyles
For young professionals, families, or homeowners renovating their kitchens, a venting hob offers an all-in-one solution that combines cutting-edge cooking tech with high-performance air purification. Whether you're frying a full English breakfast or simmering a curry, a venting hob ensures your kitchen stays fresh, clean, and stylish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation or simply want to upgrade to a smarter cooking solution, a venting hob is an excellent investment. With stylish design, functional innovation, and space-saving benefits, it's perfectly aligned with the needs of UK and European households.
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