What is a suggested addition near a range exhaust hood?

The suggested addition of a fresh air supply duct near a range exhaust hood is beneficial for improving indoor air quality. When cooking, especially with gas ranges, combustion can produce various pollutants, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. An exhaust hood helps to remove these contaminants, but it can also create negative pressure in the home.

Adding a fresh air supply duct helps to balance the airflow, allowing fresh air to enter the kitchen and replace the air being exhausted. This not only enhances the overall ventilation but also ensures that the air is continually refreshed, reducing the concentration of indoor pollutants. This is especially important in tight or energy-efficient homes where air circulation may be limited.

In contrast, recirculating air ducts do not introduce fresh air but rather filter and return indoor air, which may not sufficiently mitigate pollutant levels. A high-velocity fan could provide additional circulation but does not specifically address the need for fresh outdoor air in relation to the exhaust hood. Thus, the fresh air supply duct is the most effective choice for maintaining good indoor air quality near range exhaust hoods.