There is no requirement that your Over The Range (OTR) Microwave be vented to the outdoors. All OTR microwave ovens can be set up to either allow the fan to recirculate the air back into the kitchen or be vented to the outdoors.
How do over the stove microwaves vent?
Microwaves over the range (OTR) typically vent in two different ways. In the first example, the microwave over the range (OTR) will vent through the manufacturer installed grease or carbon filter , then directly through an exhaust port that is ducted to the outside of the structure.
How does over range microwave vent?
Over-the-range microwaves have a light and fan built into the bottom of the appliance. After the smoke and steam are removed, the filtered fan vents the air outside your home or cleans it before releasing it back into the kitchen.
Do Over the Range microwaves have exhaust fans?
Unlike countertop models, OTR microwaves are not portable, and they boast a higher price tag: However, they also have built in exhaust fans , which serve as a stove-top ventilation system to eliminate smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
Do microwave vents do anything?
Most microwave vent hoods are recirculating , which does not entirely remove the unwanted contaminants from your kitchen air. Instead, the air moves through charcoal filters and is recirculated back into the kitchen. So, it is important to duct to the outside when possible to keep your indoor air clean and fresh.
How much does it cost to install a microwave vent?
| Vent type Install cost | Replace non-vented (ductless) microwave $100 – $150 | Replace vented microwave & connect to existing ductwork $150 – $300 | Replace range hood with a microwave & connect to existing ductwork $200 – $400 |
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Can you put any microwave over a stove?
Most microwaves set above a stove top require a total clearance of 66 inches from the floor to the top of the microwave. ... Not all microwaves are designed to go above a stove top. Microwaves that are designed to fit beneath or between cabinets or over a wall oven don't have vents built into the bottom.
What height should a microwave be above a stove?
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the bottom of the microwave should be no higher than 54 inches above the floor , which would allow for 18 inches of clearance between the microwave and the typical cooktop height of 36 inches.
Do Over-the-Range microwaves have lights underneath?
Over-the-Range microwaves have a cooktop light underneath to help you better see the food you're cooking on the cooktop surface below. ... Locate the light cover on the underside of the microwave.
How long do over the range microwaves last?
An over-the-range microwave will usually last about 10 years , depending on how well it's maintained. Keeping the interior clean by wiping it down after spills helps extend its life. Make sure to use the fan when cooking on the stovetop to prevent moisture from building up on the microwave's components.
Are microwave hoods ductless?
A Note About Ductless/Recirculating Ventilation
Just make sure to replace the charcoal filters periodically – usually around every 6 months. The vast majority of vent hoods and microwaves are easily convertible from ductless to ducted venting – they are designed to do either.
How much room do you need for an over the range microwave?
Over-the-range microwaves
If your microwave is installed above the range, the manufacturer will recommend that you keep a distance of at least thirteen inches between the base of the microwave and the top of the stove. But some manufacturers might call for this distance to be a minimum of eighteen inches.
How much clearance do you need above a gas stove?
Gas ranges require a 6′′ side wall clearance above the counter height for proper distance from combustible surfaces. Select models may only require a 3′′ left side wall clearance based upon the burner configuration.
How much clearance do you need above a stove?
At least one existing rule allows a minimum of 13 inches, but pro installers and others who know their way around kitchens argue that there should be 20 to 24 inches of clearance above the stove top.
How hard is it to replace an over the range microwave?
Installing an over-the-range microwave oven is often easier than you think. ... If the available space is the right size—with properly spaced adjoining cabinets and an overhead cabinet to contain the ductwork connections—then installing an over-the-range microwave requires just a few hours of work .
What kind of bulb goes under microwave?
1 – Most microwaves, ovens and ranges use a screw base E26 bulb with the A15 glass shape . When replacing bulbs for these types of appliances you need to use a bulb rated for high heat. The type of bulb that is recommended for these types of appliances are halogen or incandescent bulbs.
