Fume Hood Installation: How Much Does It Really Cost?

What is a Fume Hood?

A fume hood is a safety device found in laboratories that helps capture and filter out hazardous vapors, chemicals, and particles from the air, for a clean and safe environment for workers. Fume hoods are necessary for maintaining a safe working environment in labs that deal with volatile substances.

A fume hood helps maintain air quality and protect laboratory personnel. It works by drawing in air through an intake, filtering it, and then either venting it outside in ducted models or recirculating it back into the room in ductless models.

Types of Fume Hoods and Their Costs

Ducted Fume Hoods

A ducted fume hood is connected to the laboratory’s ventilation system, where it vents air outside of the building. These hoods are ideal for laboratories handling highly toxic, flammable, or reactive chemicals. The installation of a ducted fume hood involves connecting it to ductwork and possibly upgrading the HVAC system.

• Cost Range: $5,000 to $10,000.
• Installation: Ducted fume hoods are more complex to install because they require ductwork, exhaust fans, and integration with your building's HVAC system. Installation can take a few days, depending on the complexity of the system.

Ducted systems offer better safety for high-risk chemical labs by making sure that harmful fumes are removed from the premises completely.

Ductless Fume Hoods

A ductless fume hood, on the other hand, uses internal filters to clean the air and recirculate it back into the lab. These hoods are less expensive to install and are often used in labs where the chemicals are less hazardous or where ventilation infrastructure is not available.

• Cost Range: $2,000 to $6,000.
• Installation: Ductless fume hoods are easier and quicker to install because they do not require external ductwork or complex ventilation systems. Typically, installation involves just setting up the hood and connecting it to a power supply.

While ductless fume hoods are generally more affordable, they may not be suitable for handling particularly hazardous chemicals.

Factors Affecting Fume Hood Installation Cost

Size of the Fume Hood

Larger fume hoods, especially those measuring six feet or more, tend to cost more both in terms of purchase price and installation. Larger hoods require more materials and larger ductwork (for ducted hoods), which increases the installation time and labor costs.

Features and Specifications

Fume hoods come with a variety of features that can impact their cost. Advanced features include:

• Variable Air Volume (VAV): This feature adjusts the airflow to save energy while maintaining safety.
• Safety Features: Alarms, monitoring systems, and automatic shut-off mechanisms are added to guarantee lab safety.

Fume hoods with these advanced features tend to cost more and require specialized installation.

Installation Complexity

The complexity of the installation can significantly impact the fume hood installation cost. If your lab already has an existing ventilation system, the installation process may be quicker and less expensive. However, if your lab requires new ductwork, electrical work, or plumbing modifications, the installation will be more costly.

Typical Fume Hood Installation Costs

On average, fume hood installation costs range from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on various factors, including the type of hood, size, features, and the complexity of the installation. Below is an approximate breakdown of costs:

• Ducted Fume Hood: $5,000 to $10,000. This includes the cost of the hood, installation labor, ductwork, and any necessary modifications to your HVAC system.
• Ductless Fume Hood: $2,000 to $6,000. These hoods are less expensive to install since they do not require ductwork, but ongoing maintenance costs (filter replacements) may add to long-term expenses.

Ongoing Costs of Fume Hood Maintenance

Ducted Fume Hood Maintenance

Ducted hoods generally require less frequent maintenance than ductless hoods. However, regular cleaning and inspections are necessary for the ducts to remain clear and free from blockages. Maintenance costs can vary depending on the size of the system and how often it needs to be serviced.

Cost: Regular maintenance typically costs $300 to $1,000 per year for cleaning and inspections.

Ductless Fume Hood Maintenance

Ductless hoods require regular filter replacements. Depending on the type of filter, these may need to be replaced every 6–12 months. If the filters are not replaced regularly, the hood’s efficiency will decrease, and it could potentially release harmful fumes back into the room.

Cost: Filter replacements typically cost $200 to $1,000 per year, depending on the hood and the type of filter.

What to Consider When Budgeting for Fume Hood Installation

When budgeting for fume hood installation, consider both the initial installation cost and the long-term maintenance expenses. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Safety Needs

If your lab handles particularly hazardous chemicals, it is important to invest in a ducted fume hood, even if the initial installation cost is higher. The added safety and efficiency offered by ducted systems are worth the investment eventually.

• Space and Layout

Make sure to account for the space required for installation. Ducted systems require extra space for ductwork, while ductless systems are more compact and flexible. Be sure to assess your lab's space limitations before making a decision.

• Long-Term Maintenance

While ductless fume hoods have lower initial installation costs, their ongoing maintenance (filter replacement) can add up over time. If you are looking for a low-maintenance option, a ducted fume hood might be a better choice.

PSA Laboratory Furniture: Supporting Your Lab Setup

At PSA Laboratory Furniture, we bring high-quality lab furniture, fume hoods, and lab design services to help you create a functional and safe laboratory. If you are installing ducted or ductless fume hoods, we can guide you in selecting the right equipment that meets both your budget and safety requirements. Our expert team is committed to offering solutions that enhance your lab's efficiency and safety.

The fume hood installation cost varies depending on the type of hood, its size, and the complexity of the installation. While ducted fume hoods tend to have higher upfront costs, they offer superior ventilation and are ideal for labs dealing with highly hazardous materials. Ductless fume hoods are more affordable to install and are suitable for less hazardous environments.

No matter what type of fume hood you choose, understanding all the associated costs, both initial and ongoing, will help you make an informed decision. PSA Laboratory Furniture is here to help you design a safe and efficient workspace with the right fume hoods, lab furniture, and lab design solutions.