A microwave oven designed to be mounted over a cooktop is usually equipped with a ventilation system to cope with the cooking odors smoke and moisture that rise from the cooking surface.
Over range microwave with vent installation.
Local codes and the manufacturer s directions will indicate the required height for the new microwave above the range.
The ventilation system may lead to an exterior vent or it may simply recirculate air back into the kitchen.
Over the range microwaves are conveniently placed and do double duty as range vents.
If you already have a built in microwave replacing it with a new one is quick and easy.
If your over the range microwave oven is equipped with an interior recirculating vent the built in charcoal filter loses efficiency.
If you currently have a range hood installing an over the range microwave is still an easy diy project since it simply replaces the range hood.
After you make sure you have the supplies you need for installation double check that your microwave will fit properly above your range.
An over the range microwave oven makes efficient use of space in your kitchen while also incorporating lighting and ventilation.
These microwaves usually fit between adjoining wall cabinets and below a specialty upper cabinet that hides the vent connections and electrical outlet.
The typical recommendation is to have 30 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the cabinet and at least 13 1 2 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the microwave.
A microwave oven designed to be mounted over a cooking range typically has a built in vent fan and light fixture designed to illuminate the stovetop.
You need a microwave designed especially for the job as well as a vent to carry away exhaust fumes from the stove.