If you want effective and don't mind the price, then go for Fujioh hood.

My mum bought an ELBA hood in December 2010 (LATEST MODEL then) - was extremely good at first. She always praised how good the purchase was. BUT!!!

After 3 months of 'seriously minimal use' the filter area which had a plastic made handle for pulling the filter out for cleaning - melted/crusted up and fell down and broke into pieces (literally). So the plastic handle is a big no no!

I can't remember what the model of the hood is - I will check it out and let you guys know later on. Their house is in Penang - and i'm in KL. However, according to my parents, the ELBA people are already AWARE of this problem when they complained to the head office. Apparently my folks were not the only ones complaining - and they are looking to rectify this/modify the upcoming models. So please STAY clear of this now until it is rectified!

So please make sure your hoods does not have plastic in the filter area as it would not be able to withstand the heat! Use those that come with stainless steel - we've learnt our mistake.

Now is my turn to buy a house, i have yet to decide on which brand to go for. Still browsing around. I went to Kitchen Tech yesterday, was thinking of checking out their Tuscani promotion, however the sales promoter heavily promoted Fotile (which was more expensive by about 1K+). From the poll here, i guess Fotile would be an ideal brand to go with Anyone giving/getting good bargains for Fotile here?