How to Install a Wells WVU Ventless Hood

If you need to learn how to install a Wells WVU ventless hood, we have the steps to help. Hoods are essential for cooking equipment, ensuring the safety of commercial kitchens and operators. We cover everything from critical checks to base assembly, electrical connections and more. Follow along to help install the hood and keep electric cooking equipment safe and ready. 

Before You Start (Critical Checks)

• Verify electrical-only appliances – WVU systems are for electric cooking equipment only 
• Confirm location requirements:
  • Adequate make‑up air (≈800 CFM recommended) 
  • Clearance above unit and access for service
• Inspect shipment for damage 
• Verify all components (filters, fire system, control panel)
• DON’T operate without filters installed
• Verify local codes for requirements

Base Assembly

• Step 1. Join rear panels – Align both rear panels and secure them using bolts, washers and nuts.
• Step 2. Install bottom stiffener – Position the base bottom stiffener between the rear panels and secure it in place. 
• Step 3. Attach side panels – Align the left and right sides of the base to the rear panel and secure each side using bolts, washers and nuts.
• Step 4. Install rear corner brackets – Align the rear corner brackets and secure them using bolts, washers and nuts.
• Step 5. Install adjustable legs – Thread in the 6 in. adjustable legs and secure them using the provided bolts.
• Step 6. Install base deflectors – Align both base deflectors and secure each with screws.
• Step 7. Level the base – Move the base into position and adjust the legs until the unit is level.

Hood Assembly & Mounting

• Step 1. Remove hood side panels – Remove the side panels from the hood assembly to allow easier installation onto the base.
• Step 2. Prepare sealing surface – Clean all mating surfaces to remove dirt, grease, and debris before applying sealant.
• Step 3. Apply RTV sealant – Apply a continuous bead of RTV sealant (rated for 375°F) to the base where it meets the hood. Do not allow the sealant to form a skin before setting the hood.
• Step 4. Set hood onto base – Lower the hood onto the base using the support brackets, align mounting holes, and secure using bolts, washers, and nuts.
• Step 5. Reinstall side panels – Reinstall the hood side panels using the provided hardware.
• Step 6. Coordinate contractor work – Contact electrical and Ansul® contractors to complete required system connections.

Electrical Installation

• Step 1. Verify electrical requirements – Confirm that the voltage, phase and amperage match the unit nameplate.
• Step 2. Connect grounding – Attach the hood’s ground lug to a suitable building ground.
• Step 3. Access terminal block – Open the front access panel and remove the appropriate knockout for wiring.
• Step 4. Route wiring – Run wiring through conduit with proper strain relief to the terminal block.
• Step 5. Connect power supply – Connect a 208/240V, single-phase, 20A, 60 Hz power supply using minimum #12 AWG copper wire rated for 167°F.
• Step 6. Connect appliance control circuit – Wire the cooking appliance control circuit to the terminal block as specified.
• Step 7. Install interlock contactor – Install a UL-listed definite-purpose contactor for appliance interlock (shunt trip breakers are not permitted).

Equipment Cutoff Connections

Step 1. Connect 208/240V control circuit (Option 1) – Use terminals TB#3 and TB#4 for 208 or 240V systems; contacts will de-energize when the hood is OFF or in a fault condition.

Step 2. Connect alternate control circuit (Option 2) – Use terminals TB#5 and TB#6 as a normally closed relay for other voltages; contacts will open when the hood is OFF or in a fault condition.

Fire Suppression System Installation

• Step 1. Install manual pull station – Install the manual pull station in an accessible location via an authorized Ansul distributor.
• Step 2. Verify nozzle placement – Ensure all nozzles are installed and aimed properly at cooking surfaces; adjust swivel nozzles as needed.
• Step 3. Confirm detector placement – Verify that all thermal detectors are installed in correct upper and lower hood positions.
• Step 4. Install remote pull station (if required) – Install a remote pull station if required by local code and AHJ.
• Step 5. Complete system commissioning – Have an authorized Ansul technician charge, test, and certify the fire suppression system.

Filter Installation

• Step 1. Install filter pack – Insert the filter pack fully into its slot with the airflow arrow pointing toward the fan.
• Step 2. Install pre-filters – Engage the top retaining flange first, then seat the pre-filter housing into the lower chamber.
• Step 3. Install baffle filter from front – Insert the baffle filter into the retainer slot, lift into position, then lower into the bottom retainer.
• Step 4. Install grease cup – Place the grease cup into the brackets located below the baffle filter.