If you're replacing an aging range hood or installing ventilation above your cooktop for the first time, an under-cabinet model offers a clean, space-saving solution. The Broan-NuTone F403604 36-inch under-cabinet range hood is a convertible design that works with multiple installation methods, making it adaptable to different kitchen layouts. Understanding your options before purchasing will save you time and installation headaches.

What Size Range Hood Do You Actually Need?

The 36-inch width of the Broan-NuTone F403604 refers to the hood's horizontal dimension, and this measurement should roughly match your cooktop width. Most standard cooktops fall between 30 and 36 inches, so a 36-inch hood provides adequate coverage. However, size isn't just about the opening—it's also about how far above your cooktop it sits. This hood must install at least 18 inches above the cooking surface. If you have a wall cabinet directly above your cooktop, you may need a shallower model, so measure your space first.

The hood should extend slightly beyond your cooktop on both sides, ideally by 3 to 6 inches on each end. This ensures you're capturing steam and smoke before it rises into your kitchen. Measure your exact cooktop width and the distance to your wall cabinets before ordering.

Understanding the Broan-NuTone F403604's Four Convertible Installation Options

What makes this model distinctive is its flexibility. The Broan-NuTone F403604 offers four different installation configurations, which means you can adapt it to your kitchen's existing ductwork or choose a method that works best for your layout.

Ducted vertical or horizontal installation: The hood accepts 3.25-inch by 10-inch ducting, running either straight up through a cabinet or horizontally through a wall. This is the preferred method because it vents cooking odors and steam completely outside your home. The damper is included with the F403604, so you're ready to install immediately.

Round ducting option: You can also use 7-inch round vertical ducting if your existing ductwork is circular. Note that the adapter for this configuration is included, but if you want a damper (which prevents backflow), you'll need to purchase that separately.

Non-ducted recirculation: If running new ducts isn't practical, the hood can recirculate air back into your kitchen using a charcoal filter. This is less effective than true ducting but works when external venting is impossible. You'll need to buy the recirculation filter separately in this case.

Before you buy, determine which option matches your kitchen. Look at whether you have access to exterior walls, attic space, or existing ductwork. If you're unsure, consult the original ductwork in your home or speak with a contractor.

Performance and Noise: CFM and Sones Explained

The Broan-NuTone F403604 offers a maximum of 230 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at its highest speed setting. CFM measures how much air the fan moves per minute—higher numbers mean more powerful ventilation. For a 36-inch cooktop, this level of performance is adequate for capturing smoke and steam from everyday cooking, though heavy cooking or multiple burners running simultaneously will work the fan harder.

The two-speed rocker switch lets you dial the fan down to 190 CFM, which uses less energy and runs quieter. The hood produces 6.5 Sones at maximum speed, which is a measure of loudness. For context, this is moderately loud—comparable to normal conversation or background music—so don't expect a silent operation at full speed. Running on low speed will noticeably reduce noise.

Lighting and Filter Maintenance

The integrated overhead light accepts up to a 75-watt incandescent bulb and uses its own rocker switch, so you can run the light and fan independently. This is useful for task lighting without always running the ventilation.

The dishwasher-safe aluminum grease filter is one of the easiest maintenance features. Instead of replacing filters regularly, simply remove it and run it through your dishwasher when it becomes visibly greasy. Depending on your cooking frequency, this might happen every two to four weeks. A clean filter maintains optimal airflow and grease capture, so don't skip this step.

Is This Model Right for Your Kitchen?

Choose the Broan-NuTone F403604 if you have a 36-inch cooktop, at least 18 inches of clearance above it, and flexibility in how you want to vent. The convertible design is its greatest strength, allowing you to adapt to various kitchen configurations. If your cooktop is significantly narrower or wider, or if you need significantly higher airflow for commercial-style cooking, you may want to explore other sizes or models. For standard residential kitchens with typical cooking habits, this 36-inch under-cabinet model provides reliable, practical ventilation.

The product in this guide: Broan-NuTone F403604 Exhaust Fan for Under Cabinet Two-Speed Four-Way Range Hood, 36-Inch, Stainless Steel