Ductless Fume Hood Vs. Ducted: What’s The Difference?
When it comes to laboratory safety, fume hoods are crucial to protect users from hazardous fumes, vapors, and dust. Two main types of fume hoods are commonly used in labs: ductless fume hoods and ducted fume hoods.
If you’re considering which option is best for your laboratory, understanding the differences between these two fume hoods is essential. This article will explain the key differences, benefits, and considerations for each system so that you can make the right choice for your laboratory’s needs.
What Is a Ducted Fume Hood?
A ducted fume hood connects directly to the building’s ventilation system through ducts. It draws in hazardous air from the lab, filters it, and then expels it outdoors, ensuring that toxic fumes, gases, and particulates are safely removed from the work environment.
Ducted fume hoods are especially effective in labs handling volatile chemicals or large quantities of hazardous materials, providing essential protection for lab personnel’s health and safety. They are often required by regulations in labs working with highly dangerous substances.
What is a Ductless Fume Hood?
A ductless fume hood, on the other hand, does not require a connection to an external ventilation system. Instead, these hoods are equipped with advanced built-in filtration systems designed to capture harmful chemicals, particulates, and fumes inside the hood itself. The filtered air is then recirculated back into the laboratory, ensuring the workspace remains protected from contaminants.
Ductless fume hoods are often used in labs where venting to the outside isn’t feasible or practical, such as in buildings without access to ductwork or in spaces with strict ventilation constraints. Additionally, they are ideal for environments where the mobility and ease of installation are important, as they do not require any extensive setup or modifications to the existing infrastructure.
Key Differences Between Ducted and Ductless Fume Hoods
The primary difference between ductless and ducted fume hoods lies in how the air is handled. Ducted fume hoods expel harmful fumes outdoors, while ductless hoods recirculate air through filters.
Ducted systems are often considered more reliable for handling a broader range of hazardous materials because the contaminants are safely removed from the building. In contrast, ductless fume hoods are better suited for labs with lighter workloads or where mobility and ease of installation are priorities.
Advantages of Ducted Fume Hoods
Ducted fume hoods offer several advantages, particularly in labs dealing with hazardous chemicals, biological materials, or high-risk procedures. One major benefit is their ability to safely vent hazardous air outside the building. This ensures that potentially dangerous fumes are never recirculated into the lab, providing a safer working environment for staff.
Ducted hoods also tend to have a higher airflow rate, which can be important in handling large amounts of chemicals or when dealing with high toxicity levels.
Advantages of Ductless Fume Hoods
Ductless fume hoods offer several key benefits as well. They are often more cost-effective than ducted models because they don’t require installation of expensive ductwork or external venting systems. They are also easier to install, making them ideal for smaller labs or labs located in buildings that cannot be retrofitted with ducting.
Additionally, because ductless fume hoods don’t require an external venting system, they are more mobile and can be relocated as needed.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Ductless and Ducted Fume Hoods
When deciding between ductless and ducted fume hoods, there are several factors to consider.
First, think about the type of work you will be doing in your lab. If your work involves highly toxic or volatile chemicals, a ducted fume hood may be the safer choice, as it effectively expels hazardous air outside the building. A ductless fume hood could be a more practical and cost-effective option if you’re dealing with less hazardous materials or have specific space constraints.
Additionally, consider the long-term cost implications of each system. While ductless hoods may have a lower upfront cost, they require periodic filter replacements, which can add up over time. In contrast, ducted systems may have higher initial installation costs but can offer lower maintenance and long-term costs due to less frequent servicing.
Maintenance and Operating Costs: Ductless vs. Ducted Fume Hoods
Ductless fume hoods require regular maintenance, particularly filter replacement. Depending on the type of filter used and the level of use, these filters may need to be replaced anywhere from monthly to annually, especially in labs with high airflow or hazardous materials. Failing to replace filters on time can compromise the system’s effectiveness, leading to potential risks. Ducted fume hoods, however, require less frequent maintenance, mainly related to the ducts and fan systems, and ensuring proper ventilation.
While ducted hoods might require occasional cleaning and inspection of the ventilation infrastructure, they typically have fewer ongoing costs than ductless systems. Both systems come with operational costs, but it’s important to factor in initial installation costs and ongoing maintenance when choosing the best option for your lab. Remember that long-term maintenance expenses, including parts and labor, should be considered in your decision-making process.
Which is Best for Your Lab?
Choosing between a ductless fume hood and a ducted fume hood depends largely on your laboratory’s specific needs. For instance, a ducted fume hood may be your best bet if you require a high airflow rate.
On the other hand, if you have limited space, a smaller lab, or less hazardous materials, a ductless fume hood might be the right solution. It’s crucial to carefully evaluate your laboratory’s unique needs, space limitations, and budget before making a decision.
Premium, Made-in-USA Lab Solutions Designed for Performance and Safety
Whether you need ductless or ducted systems, our team at LOC Scientific is here to deliver tailored solutions that perfectly fit your laboratory’s needs. We specialize in designing, selling, and installing high-quality lab furniture and fume hoods, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.
Trust LOC Scientific to provide you with premium, made-in-USA products that elevate your lab’s performance and safety standards.