PVC for range hood ventilation

hoodrange

I am installing an under the cabinet range hood. I can't vent directly out the back because there is a stud in the way. So I'm going up into the cabinet, making a turn, and then out through the exterior wall.

My range hood manufacturer calls for 7" round pipe. (or 3.25"x10x rectangle but that is not possible)

Cabinet space is tight, the metal ducts might not fit. So it made me wonder two things, which I cannot find answers for:

  1. Is it ok to reduce to 6" instead? How bad could that be?
  2. Is it ok to use pvc pipe? Seems like heat would never be an issue with a range hood exhaust. If so… does anyone know where to find 7" pvc pipe? Not at home depot or lowes, and I'm not having luck searching the internet either.

Thank you

Best Answer

Check your local building codes to be 100% sure but PVC is NOT permitted by many. I'll reference one from TX but most are similar where it says:

M1503.2 Duct Material

Ducts serving range hoods shall be constructed of galvanized steel, stainless steel or copper.

Regarding size, I believe you'll find that your local codes also require adhering to the hood manufacturer's specification for duct size.

See: TX Code