Ducted vs. Ductless Hoods – what’s the best choice?

If you read our previous post about the preconceptions of ductless fume hoods, and why that’s changed, you will likely find yourself asking – “What is the right choice for my lab?”

Here are some things to ask yourself when choosing between ducted and ductless hoods… 

1. What chemicals are you using?

   Before you purchase your ductless hood, be sure to collaborate with the vendor of the filters so they can ensure that the chemicals you’ll be using in the hood are suitable for filtration and that you’ll use the correct filter(s).

2. How often will you have to replace the filters?

   Although ductless hoods save a lot of money on heating and cooling costs for your building, the price of replacement filters is something to consider. If your usage will require constant replacement of the filters, you’ll want to make sure this is in your budget. (Your filter vendor should be able to help you determine this). Our partner, Erlab creates filters that typically require replacement in 12 to 18 months.

3. Are you renovating a lab in an existing building?

   If you are in need of a renovation but your building space won’t allow for HVAC alterations, then ductless hoods are the way to go. They can go anywhere in your lab where there is an electrical outlet.

4. Are you trying to create a greener lab?

   If so, consider Erlab’s ductless hoods. Erlab’s hoods are installed in many LEED-certified labs in the U.S. and can “green-up” your lab because: the used filters are completely recyclable, filtering lab air means the energy used to heat and cool the building decreases tremendously, and lastly, if you’re filtering the chemicals rather than exhausting them into the atmosphere, you’re decreasing the amount of pollutants in the air.

In summary:

Ducted Fume Hoods

PROS

• Can handle most chemical applications and larger volumes

CONS

• Installation cost is very high
• Timely to install, typical delays
• Multiple trade coordination

Ductless Fume Hoods

PROS

• Mobile
• Quick and easy installation

CONS

• Can only be  used with specific applications
• Annual maintenance reviews are required

Plastic Concepts has many hood options as part of our catalog and we’d be happy to help you determine which is the best fit for your lab.