When it's time to replace an old range hood, the job may not be too complicated, especially if your new unit is similar to the old one.

Start by switching off the power at the circuit breaker.

Remove the filters from the old vent hood.

Unscrew and remove the cover that conceals the fan, motor and controls.

You may wish to use a voltage detector to make certain that no current is in the wires.

Once you are certain the power is off, it's safe to disconnect them.

To ensure that the old vent hood won't come crashing down once the fasteners holding it in place are removed, install some temporary bracing, like a strip of lumber, with a pair of clamps.

Some wood scraps between the shelving and the back of the hood will keep the rear from dropping too far.

An extra-long bit holder will make it easier to reach up inside the hood, and take out the fasteners.

Remove the screws that hold the hood in place.

With the screws gone, hold the vent with one hand and remove the temporary bracing with the other.

This cooking area has a spice shelf in the back - it can be removed to allow for extra work space.

Sometimes, poor workmanship is revealed when fixtures like these are removed. In this case, an unsightly hole behind the old fixture represents a potential fire hazard or entry point for rodents.

Fix problems like this with a drywall saw, cutting away the damaged material and creating a clean rectangular opening.

Next, bore holes through the wall studs. A tool like a right-angle drill works very well in tight areas like this one.