Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 (PRF0172646B) – Full Review of the Recessed Ceiling Hood 100 cm in Black Soft Touch Effect with Perimetric Extraction and Energy Class A

The Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 (code PRF0172646B, EAN 8020283051805) is a 100 cm recessed ceiling hood in black soft touch effect finish with a black soft touch frame, designed to integrate flush with the ceiling in a completely invisible way into the architecture of the kitchen and living area. The Illusion Collection by Elica represents one of the most radical projects in the ceiling recessed hood landscape: the front panel — available in this version in matte black soft touch, as well as in white and in a paintable version with plasterboard — intelligently conceals a powerful and silent perimetric extraction system, capable of delivering maximum performance even at significant distances from the hob typical of open-plan spaces. The H30 designation indicates a 30 cm installation depth, allowing insertion into standard false ceilings without major structural work. The maximum airflow of 770 m³/h across 5 speeds (3 normal + 2 intensive), maximum noise of just 53 dB(A), Energy Class A and the lighting system with 2×14 W LED strips with dimmable Tune White technology make the Illusion H30 one of the most technically complete products in the Elica range for island or open-plan kitchens. The Super Easy Installation system patented by Elica and the motor mounting flexibility (5 directions, 4 compatible external motor versions, slim version down to 16 cm) allow adaptation to almost any architectural scenario. Made in Italy, Fabriano (AN).

Key Features

• Model: Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 – Code PRF0172646B
• EAN: 8020283051805
• Type: Recessed ceiling hood – extracting, convertible to recirculating
• Width: 100 cm | Depth: 50 cm | Body height: 30 cm (H30)
• Finish: Black Soft Touch effect + black Soft Touch frame
• Energy class: A | Lighting class: B
• Maximum intensive airflow: 770 m³/h
• Extraction type: Perimetric
• Speeds: 3 normal + 2 intensive (5 total)
• Maximum noise level: 53 dB(A)
• Total power consumption: 188 W
• Air outlet: Ø 150 mm
• Lighting: 2× LED strip 14 W – 2700–5000 K dimmable – Tune White
• Controls: Remote control included
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi – Elica Connect App
• Functions: Dim Light, Tune White, lighting hub, filter saturation indicator, delay switch off
• Motor installation: 5 directions | 4 compatible external motor versions | Slim down to 16 cm
• Super Easy Installation: Yes – Elica patented system
• Grease filter: Dishwasher-safe aluminium filter included
• Carbon filter (optional): Elica Long Life Filter, regenerable for up to 3 years
• Available versions: BL MAT (black soft touch) / WH (white soft touch) / PAINT (paintable with plasterboard)
• Made in Italy – Fabriano (AN)

Assessment

The Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 (PRF0172646B) is the definitive answer for those who want a high-performance extraction hood in an island or open-plan kitchen without sacrificing the architectural purity of the ceiling. The black soft touch effect finish with coordinated black frame is the most contemporary and decisive version of the Illusion range: the absence of reflections on the soft touch surface means the panel visually disappears even on coloured or clad ceilings, while the integrated black frame defines the perimeter with a precise graphic accent without drawing attention. Perimetric extraction — which captures cooking vapours from the entire perimeter of the panel rather than a single central point — is the key technology that makes the Illusion so effective even at the significant distances from the hob typical of open-plan spaces: 770 m³/h distributed perimetrically ensures uniform and silent capture. The 53 dB(A) at maximum speed is an excellent result for a ceiling hood of this capacity — comparable extracting hoods typically measure between 60 and 70 dB(A) at intensive speed. The 2-strip Tune White LED lighting system — adjustable in intensity and colour temperature from 2700 to 5000 K — transforms the hood into a genuine lighting hub for the kitchen, allowing ambient lighting to be managed via the Elica Connect App or remote control. Compatibility with the Elica Long Life Filter regenerable for up to 3 years ensures conversion to recirculating mode where external ducting is not possible.

FAQ

What is the difference between the Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 (black soft touch) and the WH and PAINT versions of the same hood?

The three versions of the Elica Illusion H30/A/100 share identical technical specifications for extraction, lighting and installation — the difference relates exclusively to the front panel and frame. The BL MAT version (PRF0172646B) has a black soft touch effect panel and frame, ideal for dark kitchens or strong chromatic contrasts; the WH version (PRF0146251B) has a white soft touch effect panel and frame, the most versatile and discreet option in white or light kitchens; the PAINT version (PRF0146250B) has a panel paintable with plasterboard (not included) and a stainless steel frame, allowing the colour to be customised to exactly match the ceiling for total architectural invisibility. The PAINT version is the choice for installations where the hood must literally disappear into the ceiling.

Can the Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 operate in recirculating mode and what filters are required?

Yes, the Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 is an extracting hood convertible to recirculating mode through the purchase of the optional carbon filter kit. The recommended carbon filter is the Elica Long Life Filter, a long-life activated carbon filter regenerable for up to 3 years in the microwave, reducing environmental impact and maintenance costs compared to traditional annual replacement filters. The control panel and remote control include a filter saturation indicator light that signals the optimal time for cleaning, regeneration or replacement. Recirculating mode is suitable for installations in buildings where external ducting cannot be installed, though it does result in a reduction in effective airflow compared to extracting mode.

What are the motor installation options for the Elica Illusion H30 and how does the Super Easy Installation system work?

The Elica Illusion H30 offers exceptional installation flexibility through two complementary systems. The integrated motor can be oriented in 5 different directions to adapt to the optimal position of the evacuation duct in the false ceiling, eliminating the need for additional structural modifications. Alternatively, the hood is compatible with 4 versions of Elica external motor, including the Slim version down to 16 cm in height, ideal for low false ceilings or technically complex installations. The Super Easy Installation system patented by Elica simplifies the mechanical mounting of the ceiling panel, reducing installation time and the need for multiple accesses to the technical cavity. For complex installations or false ceilings with limited space, Elica recommends consulting an authorised installer to choose the most suitable motor configuration.

Conclusion

The Elica Illusion H30 BL MAT/A/100 (PRF0172646B) in black soft touch effect finish is the ceiling hood for those who choose not to compromise between extraction performance and architectural integration: 100 cm, 770 m³/h, perimetric extraction, 53 dB(A), Class A, dimmable Tune White LED strips 2700–5000 K, remote control + Elica Connect App, Super Easy Installation, regenerable Long Life Filter, Made in Italy Fabriano. A hood that cannot be seen but can be felt — in the clean air and the silence of operation. Visit the official Elica website to discover the Illusion range, installation options and find your nearest authorised dealer.