[Dottore]

We have experimented with various downdrafts in our chalet - as the stove is in a space in which it is impossible to install a hood-vent.

My advice is simple: if you have a choice install the hood vent. Steam and smoke etc rise naturally - and it takes relatively little effort from a hood-vent.

On the other hand, to suck it down requires a very strong motor - and these invariably generate enormous noise, or break down, or both - particularly after the warranty wears off. Even when they are working well they are a huge distraction.

And we have gone through 4 stoves in this chalet. Amana, GE, Kitchen Aid - and I forget what the other one was. No joy in any of them. Down-draft is a terrible compromise.

Trust me on this.