Hello - I am looking at a KitchenAid 36" pro range, however KitchenAid's specs say that the clearance from the range top to the hood insert (inside a wood hood) needs to be 42 inches. Other brands that we have looked at (Monogram, Wolf) only require 36" and their 36" pro ranges have the exact same total BTU output as the KitchenAid. Both our appliance sales person and kitchen designer say that 36" clearance is normal and they do not understand why KitchenAid would require 42".

Should we ignore the specs and proceed with 36" of clearance or do what KitchenAid says? (Incidentally, the appliance sales person also says that she is baffled because hood fans lose their effectiveness if they are higher off the range top than 36").

I would greatly appreciate it if anyone has any insight regarding this issue.