Range Hoods: Disappearing act

Reviewed by:
Rosemary Thornton

There's something delightful about an appliance that politely disappears when not in use. This Viking Versavent downdraft cooking vent retracts to surface level with the touch of a button. An optional remote control (mounted on the countertop) prevents having to reach across a hot stove. A delay feature automatically turns the fan off after 10 minutes. After 30 hours of use, a filter alert reminds you it's time to place the removable filters in the dishwasher.

Choose from 500, 900 or 1200 CFM (cubic feet per minute) ventilator fans. Standard finish is stainless steel and optional colors (for vent's top) are black or white. It's designed for use with Viking Professional Series rangetops and can be used with island or wall installations.

Base price is $899 and ventilator fans (not included) cost $279, $479 and $599 (500, 900 and 1200 CFM). (November 2004).