Do you have to vent an above range microwave?

Author: Jaime Windler  |  Last update: Friday, June 3, 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.

Does a built in microwave need ventilation?

Adequate ventilation, especially if the microwave is built into a wall of cabinetry, is a must.

How much space do you need around a microwave for ventilation?

1" clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3" or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping. If located on the counter near a range, we recommend locating it at least 2 ft away.

Where is the vent on a built in microwave?

Examine the countertop microwave to locate all vents on the two sides, top and back panels. Since a countertop microwave is designed to rest on a countertop, the vents are often placed on the sides or top to ensure the vents have proper air space to clean out dust and expel hot air during operation.

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

Do microwave exhaust fans work?

They do a better job of extracting toxins and smoke (although not at the same level as a range hood). A vented option will remove these fumes and vent them to the exterior of your home. A recirculating OTR microwave uses charcoal filters to neutralize air before it is pumped back into your kitchen.

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.

Are over the range microwaves out of style?

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

Is it OK to have a microwave above a gas stove?

Can you put a microwave above a gas range? Yes. In fact, you can put a microwave over a gas range or electric range. Microwaves are also commonly placed on countertops, stored inside cabinets, or on shelves.

How far does microwave need to be above stove?

The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that 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. Some manufacturers allow smaller clearances.

Can an over the range microwave be vented outside?

All over-the-range microwaves can be vented to the outside using an equivalent total of 140 feet of rigid 3 1/4" x 10" rectangular or rigid 6" round ducting.

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.

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.

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.

What is a self venting microwave?

A ductless recirculating vent pulls air through a filter and exhausts the air back into the kitchen. Some units are equipped with a charcoal filter that traps some particulate matter and odors, but most of the heat and moisture, along with some types of particles, stay in the house.

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.

How do you vent an interior wall microwave?

Most microwaves don't require venting. However, if yours does, venting it from an inside wall is a simple matter of running the duct pipe to the nearest external wall. Alternatively, you can choose to run the duct pipe through the wall to the central ventilation.

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 have to have a fan above your stove?

Although many designs of kitchen range hoods channel unhealthy smoke and unpleasant odor to the outside, some models work by recirculating the air to the kitchen using filters and powerful fans. There are residential building codes that do not require a range hood above a cooking stove.

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.

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.

How do I know if my microwave vents are outside?

You can tell if it's the case by going outside and looking at the wall to see if there's a wall cap. This allows the escape or exit of vented air from the kitchen. Naturally, the range hood probably won't be vented outdoors if it isn't mounted on an outside wall.

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