Zephyr · Parts & Accessories
Zephyr Outdoor Hoods: Cypress vs Spruce Explained
Zephyr's outdoor-rated Pro Collection has TWO models — the Cypress wall-mount (AK78-C) and the Spruce insert (AK98-B). Both push 1200 CFM through a 10" round duct; the difference is how they mount.
By Reed · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
Outdoor Pro Collection at a glance
- Cypress Wall Outdoor/Indoor
- AK78-C
- Spruce Insert Outdoor/Indoor
- AK98-B
- CFM
- 1200 (both models)
- Duct size
- 10" round (both models)
- Blower
- Internal (both models)
- Lighting
- LED (both models)
- Filter
- Pro Baffle (stainless, dishwasher-safe)
- Finish
- Stainless steel
- Sizes
- 36" / 42" / 48" (both); larger sizes available in at least one
Step by step
Confirm wall vs insert mount for your kitchen design
Wall (Cypress AK78-C) sits visible over the grill, mounted to a back wall. Insert (Spruce AK98-B) requires a custom-built cabinet hood that the Zephyr insert drops into. Decide this before ordering — they are not interchangeable.
Verify your duct run can accommodate 10" round
1200 CFM moves a lot of air. Zephyr's 10" duct spec is non-negotiable — reducing to 8" or 6" chokes the blower and reduces capture to maybe 400-600 effective CFM. Plan the duct route BEFORE finalizing the kitchen design.
Pull the install sheet for your exact size
The 36" vs 48" cutout + hang-height dimensions differ. Zephyr's planning-tools page hosts install PDFs for each size.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the Spruce insert without planning the surround cabinet. The insert needs a custom surround — you can't bolt it to drywall. If your contractor isn't ready to build the cabinet, the Cypress wall-mount is the safer choice.
- Routing the duct through too many 90° elbows. Every 90° elbow is worth about 10-15 feet of straight duct for CFM loss. Keep the route under 20 equivalent feet with two or fewer elbows if possible.
Hands-on tips
- Pro Baffle filters are dishwasher-safe — stack them in a top rack and run a degreaser cycle every 60-90 days.
- Order the matching recirculating kit ONLY if you cannot vent outside. Outdoor hoods always perform better ducted outside when the install allows.
Questions people ask
Is 1200 CFM enough for a 36-inch grill?
Yes — a 36" built-in grill typically produces 60-90k BTU, and the industry's rule of 100 CFM per 10,000 BTU puts you at 600-900 CFM minimum. 1200 CFM gives margin for high-grease sears and smoke-heavy cooks.
Is 1200 CFM enough for a 48-inch grill or two side-by-side?
Borderline. A 48" or 2x36" setup can pump 120-150k BTU, which the 100-CFM-per-10k rule calls 1200-1500 CFM. Consider Zephyr Pro Collection's indoor larger-capacity hoods if you're in this range — the outdoor line tops at 1200.
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