Do I need to vent my over the range microwave?

Author: Mr. Hazel Schumm  |  Last update: Monday, June 20, 2022

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.

What happens if you don't vent your microwave?

The vents allow expanding hot air to be released. So, you should allow enough clearance for these vents when installing a microwave oven. Proper airflow ensures efficient operation. Otherwise, the device may start malfunctioning, and efficiency will be compromised.

Is it necessary to vent a microwave?

Purpose. As nearly all building codes require a ventilation system, it usually has a light to brighten the stovetop and a fan removing steam and smoke from the air. Microwaves that go on top of the range usually have a fan and light built into the underside of the microwave.

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 range hoods have to be vented outside?

Range hoods do not have to be vented to the outside. You can purchase hoods without ductwork called ductless hoods. But, ducted range hoods are almost always preferred over ductless hoods.

Why Do Over-The-Range Microwaves Require Ventilation? You've Got Options

Can an over the range microwave be installed under a cabinet?

Do not install within a closed cabinet or a cut-out space where the bottom is covered. These can be installed under a cabinet, even if there is not a cooking surface underneath the appliance. However, the height clearances outlined in the Installation Instructions must still be met.

Can you put a microwave above a wall oven?

From countertop to built-in

You can install the microwave into your cabinetry alone, or above a wall oven. Built-in installation with a trim kit maximizes counter space and achieves a custom, seamless look for your kitchen.

How do you install an over the range microwave without a wall?

When you don't have a back wall or don't want to install the microwave beneath a cabinet, add a removable shelf to the top of the countertop and place the microwave on it instead.

Can I install a countertop microwave over the stove?

You could put it on a shelf over the range. BUT, you would not have any light and more important the steam and grease from cooking would move into the microwave.

Can you have a stove without a vent?

Most residential building codes do not require a range hood above a stove or cook top, but you'd be wise to ensure your locale is not the exception. Even if it's not legally required, you should think long and hard before forgoing a hood altogether.

Does a range need to be vented?

The truth is that you should consider a vent for your electric stove. Even if you cook one or two times a week, a vent hood can be beneficial for you. It will clean your indoor air and improve your indoor air quality. For electric stoves, we recommend a range hood of at least 600 CFM.

How do I vent my stove without a hood?

10 Things to Do If You Don't Have a Range Hood or Vent
  1. Use a window fan. ...
  2. Use a portable HEPA air filter. ...
  3. Use a fan in another room, like the bathroom. ...
  4. Get a grease splatter guard. ...
  5. Wipe down your kitchen cabinets frequently. ...
  6. If you paint your kitchen, use a satin or semi-gloss finish, or choose scrubbable paint.

Do you really need a hood vent?

Without question. It's far preferable to vent the air outdoors than to recirculate it into the room. A vented hood that removes steam, smoke, heat, and cooking odors is the best way to keep your kitchen clean, since it gets rid of grease particles that would otherwise accumulate on your walls and cabinets.

Are ductless range hoods worth it?

In general, a ductless range hood is better than no range hood. Ductless range hoods can be installed on your wall, over a kitchen island, or inside a custom range hood. They are also a cost-effective option for your kitchen, since you don't have to pay a contractor to install ductwork.

Can I use an exhaust fan instead of a range hood?

Sure. You may install an exhaust fan instead of hood. The fan should be positioned right above your stove and make sure that there is no obstacle between fan and stove. Also proper ventilation is necessary to let air in.

Do you need a vent over a gas stove?

Gas stoves must be properly vented for your health and safety since they produce harmful PM 2.5 particles. These tiny particles can travel deep into the respiratory tract and lungs. They are especially harmful to people with asthma or other similar pre-existing conditions.

Do you have to have a range hood for electric stove?

The fact is whether you are using a gas or an electric stove, you need a range hood. This article looks at reasons why you need a range hood over your electric stove. As much as the range hood comes with many other benefits, the first one is the aesthetic beauty it offers.

Does a built in oven need ventilation?

Yes . Built-in ovens come with an electric heating element which is at risk of causing fires if they overheat. This is not only for safety but also to reduce fire hazards.

How do you vent a microwave into a cabinet?

When your microwave is in a cabinet, you'll still need a place to plug it in for it to work. If there is a power outlet in the back of your cabinet, you can plug it in there; otherwise, you'll need to cut a small hole in the side of your cabinet to pass the plug through and plug it in at the nearest power outlet.

Are over the stove microwaves out of style?

While over-the-range microwaves have been stylish for years, the trend is on the way out in 2018.

How does over the range microwave exhaust work?

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.

Where do built in ovens vent?

You may well find that your built in oven has an 'overrun' fan. When the oven housing is hot, the fan cuts in to cool the housing. The vents are between the top of the oven door and the built in control panel.

How much ventilation does a built in oven need?

Built In Oven Ventilation Requirements

You need at least 5mm of space along the sides of the built in oven. If the top of the oven is flush with the worktop, this is fine.

How do you fill the space between cabinets and ovens?

To fill gaps on either side of the stove, you can use trim to hide the gaps, or use the space as storage. To use the space as storage for cookie sheets or other thin items, attach trim on hinges or install a narrow slide-out cabinet.

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