Type I vs Type II hood cost guide
Type I vs Type II hood cost
Type I hoods are built around grease-producing cooking equipment, while Type II hoods handle heat, steam, vapor, or condensate loads that are not grease-laden. The cost difference is not just the stainless hood shell: suppression, duct construction, access panels, fuel shutoff, plan review, and final inspection scope can change the bid before a tenant improvement budget is approved.
Type I and Type II cost differences
| Cost factor | Type I grease hood | Type II heat or steam hood |
|---|---|---|
| Typical equipment | Fryers, griddles, charbroilers, ranges, wok lines, and other grease-producing appliances. | Dish machines, ovens, steamers, heat, condensate, or light-duty process loads that do not produce grease vapor. |
| Modeled 10-foot range | $31,000 - $82,200 | $23,450 - $63,800 |
| Fire suppression | Usually a separate wet-chemical system line with fuel shutoff, appliance nozzles, testing, and tagging. | Often not modeled by default, but verify local requirements and equipment listings before excluding it. |
| Duct and cleaning access | Grease duct, welded seams, access panels, curb details, and fire-rated coordination can drive cost. | Duct is still priced, but the grease-rated construction burden is usually lower unless the AHJ requires otherwise. |
Code caveats before you price the cheaper option
- The appliance list drives hood type more than the restaurant concept name. A cafe with a fryer can become a Type I project.
- Type II does not mean no permit work. Fan power, penetrations, balancing, and makeup-air review may still be required.
- Landlord rules, fire marshal comments, mechanical code, and the AHJ control final classification and inspection scope.
Type I vs Type II hood FAQ
Is a Type I hood more expensive than a Type II hood?
Usually, yes. In the matched 10-foot examples here, Type I prices at $31,000 - $82,200 because grease equipment adds suppression, heavier duct coordination, and more trade review. The Type II planning range is $23,450 - $63,800 with makeup air still included.
Can I use a Type II hood over light cooking equipment?
Only if the equipment and local review support that classification. Heat, steam, and condensate loads may fit Type II, but grease-producing appliances typically move the scope to Type I.
Why does the calculator still price ductwork for Type II?
A Type II system may still need exhaust duct, a fan, a roof or wall penetration, electrical hookup, air balancing, and inspection support. The material and access rules can differ from grease duct, but the trade work is not free.
Should I budget makeup air for both hood types?
Budget it whenever exhaust volume is meaningful or the building is tight. The final need depends on the mechanical design, local code, existing HVAC capacity, and inspection review.