BORA Hob Ventilation in Ireland: Ducted vs Recirculating Explained

When designing a new kitchen in Ireland, every detail matters — from layout and lighting to appliances and ventilation. One of the biggest decisions when choosing a BORA hob extractor is whether to go for a ducted (exhaust air) system or a recirculating system. Both options are excellent, but the right choice depends on your home, your kitchen design, and your lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know.

How BORA Hob Ventilation Works

• Ducted (Exhaust Air) The extractor channels cooking steam, odours, and grease directly outside via ductwork. Air is drawn down through the hob, filtered for grease, and expelled outdoors.
• Recirculating The extractor draws in cooking vapours, cleans the air with grease and activated charcoal filters, and then releases the purified air back into the room.

A ducted, or exhaust air, system is highly effective at removing odours, steam, and excess indoor moisture. It does not require charcoal filter replacements, making it a strong long-term option. However, installation can be more complex and costly, as it requires access to an exterior wall or roof, and it may result in some heat loss during Irish winters.

A recirculating system is usually easier and more affordable to install, making it ideal for kitchen islands, retrofits, airtight Irish homes, and passive houses where retaining heat is important. However, charcoal filters need to be replaced regularly, and because moisture remains in the room, good general ventilation is still needed.

What’s best: an exhaust air or recirculation extractor?

Both systems have their advantages. Exhaust air systems fully remove moisture and odours, but are more difficult to install. Recirculation systems are easier to install and ideal for passive houses and low-energy buildings; however, they require the activated charcoal filter to be changed.

Choosing between a ducted or recirculating BORA hob isn’t just about ventilation — it’s about creating a kitchen that works beautifully for your home and lifestyle. Both systems offer outstanding performance; the best choice depends on your layout, energy efficiency goals, and design preferences.

At Dunvara Design, we don’t just design kitchens — we also supply and help install BORA hobs. That means we can guide you through the decision, ensure the right system is chosen for your space, and provide the full service from concept to completion.

Ready to add a BORA hob to your home? Contact Dunvara Design today — we willl help you select, supply, and install the perfect system for your dream kitchen.