Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS Glacier Range Hood

Tired of lingering cooking smells and greasy build-up in your kitchen? The Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS Glacier Range Hood might be just the solution you need! This sleek and efficient under-cabinet range hood combines powerful ventilation with bright lighting to keep your culinary workspace fresh and inviting. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of this popular model to help you determine if it’s the perfect fit for your home.

Overview

The Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS Glacier Range Hood is a 36-inch under-cabinet range hood designed to effectively remove smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen while providing ample task lighting. It boasts a two-speed blower with a maximum airflow of 250 CFM, two-level halogen lighting, and dishwasher-safe open-mesh filters for hassle-free cleaning. Crafted from durable stainless steel, it seamlessly integrates with a variety of kitchen styles.

Design - Sleek and Seamless

The Glacier range hood sports a clean, minimalist design that complements both modern and traditional kitchens. Its stainless steel finish adds a touch of sophistication, while the under-cabinet design maximizes space and keeps the hood discreetly tucked away. This seamless integration ensures that the focus remains on your culinary creations and not on bulky appliances.

Performance - Efficiently Clears the Air

Equipped with Broan’s Captur™ system, this range hood excels at removing cooking byproducts quickly and efficiently. The system’s unique design features a forward-positioned centric inlet that maximizes the capture of smoke and odors, preventing them from spreading throughout your home. With a 250 CFM blower, the Glacier can handle the demands of most home kitchens.

To better understand CFM, it stands for Cubic Feet per Minute, and it measures the volume of air that a range hood can exhaust in one minute. A higher CFM means more powerful ventilation. To determine the right CFM for your kitchen, consider the size of your cooking surface and the type of cooking you do.

Lighting - Illuminate Your Culinary Creations

The Glacier range hood features two-level halogen bulbs that bathe your cooktop in a warm, inviting light. This bright illumination ensures optimal visibility while cooking, allowing you to focus on perfecting your culinary masterpieces. The adjustable lighting allows you to set the mood and create the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

However, it’s important to note that some users have commented on the halogen bulbs getting quite hot. This is a common characteristic of halogen bulbs, and it’s something to consider if you’re concerned about heat build-up in your kitchen.

Installation - A Breeze with the EZ1 System

Installing the Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS is made easier with Broan’s EZ1 installation system. This innovative system is designed for simple, one-person installation, reducing the need for extra hands and potentially saving you time and frustration. Even if you’re not a DIY expert, the EZ1 system can help you achieve a secure and hassle-free installation.

Despite the EZ1 system, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. Ensure you follow the provided instructions carefully and consider seeking professional help if needed.

Noise Level - Whisper-Quiet Operation

Nobody wants a noisy kitchen, and the Glacier range hood addresses this concern with its quiet operation. With a noise level of 5 sones at normal speed, it’s significantly quieter than many other range hoods on the market. You can enjoy conversations, listen to music, or simply savor the peaceful sounds of your kitchen while the hood works diligently to keep the air clean.

Sones are a unit of loudness. The lower the sone rating, the quieter the range hood. For reference, 1 sone is roughly equivalent to the sound of a quiet refrigerator running.

Filters - Easy to Clean and Maintain

Keeping your range hood clean is essential for optimal performance, and the Glacier makes this task a breeze. It features dishwasher-safe, open-mesh filters that efficiently capture grease and are easy to remove and clean. This convenient feature saves you time and effort, ensuring that your range hood remains in top working condition with minimal hassle.

Regular cleaning of the filters is essential to prevent grease build-up, which can reduce airflow and increase the risk of fire. It’s recommended to clean the filters every 1-3 months, depending on your cooking frequency.

Controls - Simple and Intuitive

The Glacier range hood features user-friendly controls that are easy to understand and operate. The hidden on/off rocker switches control both the blower speeds and the light levels, allowing you to adjust the settings with a simple flick of a switch. This intuitive design ensures that you can effortlessly control the hood’s functions without any confusion.

Power and Consumption

The Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS operates on 120 volts and has an annual energy consumption of 100 watts. While not the most energy-efficient model available, its consumption is relatively moderate compared to similar range hoods.

Dimensions and Weight

This range hood measures 35.88 inches wide, 19.63 inches deep, and 6 inches high. It weighs 19.9 pounds, making it relatively lightweight and easy to handle during installation.

Conclusion

The Broan-NuTone BCSD136SS Glacier Range Hood is a reliable and stylish choice for any homeowner looking to improve their kitchen’s ventilation and lighting. Its powerful performance, quiet operation, and easy maintenance make it a practical and convenient addition to your home. While the use of halogen bulbs and the absence of included bulbs might be minor drawbacks for some, the overall value and functionality of this range hood are undeniable.