An over the range microwave vent typically vents through the top or back of the unit and into the kitchen. Depending on the model, you may have more than one ventilation option. The most common exhaust options for these microwaves are external exhaust (through the top or back of the unit) and recirculation (filtering the air through a charcoal filter and releasing it into the room).
External exhaust is more efficient because it removes the heat from the kitchen air. For recirculation, the air is filtered and circulated back into the kitchen, but it may not cool the kitchen down as much.
If your microwave has a higher power rating, it’s usually better to vent externally. Many microwaves also come with exhaust fans that can help speed up the venting of warm air. The right over the range microwave vent will depend on the model and the size of your kitchen, so be sure to check the specific instructions for your microwave and consult with a professional installer if needed.
How do I know if my microwave needs to be vented?
If you notice that your microwave is running excessively hot, making strange noises, and your food is taking longer to cook than usual, it’s likely that your microwave needs to be vented. A venting system helps direct steam and smoke away from the microwave, which can help extend its lifespan and improve the cooking process.
There are a few telltale signs that your microwave needs to be vented.
First, if your microwave feels especially hot to the touch, it’s likely due to a lack of ventilation. You may also notice an increase in steam and smoke coming from the appliance. Additionally, the fan or vent may be covered with a build-up of grease or other particles, reducing the efficiency of the ventilation system.
Finally, the fan or vent may not be working at all, either due to clogged filters or a malfunctioning motor.
Someone with knowledge of microwave venting systems should be contacted if you suspect that yours needs to be vented. A professional can review the appliance and its potential issues, ensuring that it is properly ventilated and helping to extend its lifespan.
Does a built in microwave have to be vented?
No, a built-in microwave does not necessarily have to be vented. Many newer models of built-in microwaves feature recirculating venting systems, whereby air is pulled in through the grille, heated up and released back into the room.
This is a convenient option for those who do not have the room for an external vent, but it should be noted that these systems will not be as effective at filtering out smoke and odors. Additionally, many built-in microwaves can be installed with external ventilation systems, either through the roof or an adjacent wall, depending on the type of installation.
Ultimately, the choice between recirculating venting or external venting will depend on the size and location of the appliance, as well as personal preference.
What is better range hood or microwave?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on the needs of the user. Range hoods serve an important function in keeping your kitchen well ventilated while cooking, by recycling air from the stove as it is heated and removing smoke, steam and cooking odors.
A range hood can also help to reduce airborne grease, smoke and moisture. A microwave, on the other hand, is a great convenience for quickly reheating leftovers and cooking frozen foods, but does not offer the same ventilation that a range hood does.
A microwave can release steam, smoke and odors, but you may be more likely to experience this without a range hood to filter the air. If your kitchen needs to be well ventilated while cooking, then a range hood will be the better choice.
However, if you do not require ventilation, but would still like the ability to quickly cook or reheat certain foods, then a microwave would be a great solution.
How do you vent an OTR microwave outside?
Venting an over-the-range microwave to the outside requires some construction and electrical work, as you will need to run a duct from the back of the microwave to the outside of your house. First, you’ll need to identify an area on a wall or the roof of your house from which to vent the microwave.
Make sure this area is free from any nearby branches or other objects that could create air resistance. Once you have identified the venting area, you will need to cut a hole in the wall or roof to accommodate the duct.
You will also need to identify an area on the back of the microwave through which to run the duct. Ideally, you should cut a wider hole than the duct itself to allow for proper airflow. Once the back of the microwave is ready, you will need to attach the duct to the back of the microwave and to the venting area.
Seal any exposed edges of the duct with aluminum tape to ensure airtight connections.
Finally, you will need to make the electrical connections. You should disconnect the power to the microwave prior to beginning and confirm the wiring is compatible with your local codes. Once all the connections are complete, test the system to ensure proper operation.
Do microwave vents do anything?
Yes, microwave vents do have a purpose. The vent is designed to allow heated air, smoke, and steam to escape the microwave oven as it is cooking. It also helps to maintain an appropriate temperature for the interior of the oven.
It is important to keep the vent clear and unblocked to allow proper airflow and circulation. When there is debris or dirt clogging the vent, it can interfere with the airflow and cause the microwave to overheat or not heat food properly.
Additionally, the vent may have a filter that needs to be cleaned periodically to help keep the air inside the oven clean and the food tasting the way it should.
Do I need a hood over my range?
The answer to this question is ultimately up to you, as the hood is a matter of preference. However, there are several benefits to having a hood over your range. A hood will help to keep your kitchen area free of smoke, grease and unpleasant odors that can be caused by cooking.
A hood will also trap steam, smoke, and odors away from the surrounding walls and cabinets, which helps to keep your kitchen cleaner. Additionally, a hood can also be a great way to upgrade the look of your kitchen and make it more aesthetically pleasing.
If you are considering a hood for your range, be sure to purchase one that fits the size and shape of your range. You may also want to consider having a ventilation system installed to help ensure that any smoke, steam, and odors are drawn away from your kitchen area.
How much does it cost to install a microwave vent?
The cost of installing a microwave vent depends on the complexity of the project, the materials and installation required, and the area you live in. Generally, a qualified professional will charge between $50 and $300 to install a microwave vent.
This cost may vary depending on the complexity of the job. If your vent is located in an area that is difficult to access and/or will require additional materials and installation, it will likely cost between $300 and $400 to complete the job.
Additionally, professional installation may be slightly more expensive depending on the region you live in. For example, installation in New York City may cost more than installation in a less populated area.
How much does Lowe’s charge to install an over the range microwave?
At Lowe’s, the cost to install an over the range microwave depends on a variety of factors including the model and size of the appliance, the materials needed to complete the installation, the complexity of the job and the local installation cost in your area.
Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $95 to $150 for professional installation of an over the range microwave. This includes labor and material costs as well as any damage done to your walls, cabinets and/or countertops should it be necessary.
While Lowe’s does not offer installation services for all products, the company does offer installation of certain appliances, including over the range microwaves. To determine the cost of installation in your area, the best thing to do is to visit your local Lowe’s store and speak with one of their associates.
Can I replace a stove vent hood with a microwave?
No, a stove vent hood cannot be replaced with a microwave. A vent hood is designed to release smoke, heat, moisture, and fumes from the stovetop, without allowing them to escape into the kitchen. A microwave will not provide this venting capability, so it would be unsafe to use in place of a vent hood.
Furthermore, microwaves do not typically come with the necessary mounting hardware to be installed above a stove, so even if it could provide some form of ventilation, it would likely not be safe to install it in this way.
If you are looking for better ventilation for your kitchen, you may want to consider looking into installing a range hood. Range hoods feature the same type of ventilation benefits as a traditional stove vent hood, but typically have more powerful fans and a greater ventilation capacity.
In addition, many range hoods include adjustable speeds that allow you to adjust the level of ventilation depending on what you are cooking.
What kind of outlet do I need for an over-the-range microwave?
The outlet you need for an over-the-range microwave is a standard 120V electric outlet. The outlet should be on a dedicated circuit and capable of handling 15-20 amps of power. It is best to consult with a qualified electrician to ensure you are using the proper outlet and wiring for your particular microwave.
Additionally, be sure that the outlet is installed in a way that meets all safety requirements for your location. This may include having the electrician hardwire the microwave directly to the junction box, installing receptacles that are protected from water exposure, and using an outlet with the proper ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection.
