People searching for their dream home may have many items on their checklist. Show Those usually have to do with curb appeal, a certain number of bedrooms and bathrooms and spacious backyards for recreation and relaxation. But indoor air quality should be included in that list, and the kitchen is one central location to consider — particularly over the range. Over-the-range mounted microwave ovens can save space in a kitchen, and that’s part of their appeal, but a space-saving option could mean sacrificing something much more important: indoor air quality. The exhaust fan in a microwave often just recirculates the air, rather than venting it to the outside. Even if they do vent outside, over-the-range microwaves just don’t cover enough space to adequately capture all the smoke and steam generated in most kitchens. There’s another concern for households with children: kids could reach over the stove to access the over-the-range microwave and inadvertently burn their hands on a hot stove. Since a range hood protrudes farther, it does a better job of capturing smoke, steam and cooking odors and venting them outdoors. In this video, we removed an over-the-range microwave in a home and replaced it with a NuTone range hood. And we recommend homebuyers to do the same if their dream home happens to include an over-the-range microwave. No matter if you love to cook or seldom turn on a burner, a vent hood is a kitchen must-have. When deciding between over-the-range microwave venting and a dedicated range hood, your kitchen's layout and your needs will dictate the choice. While an over-the-range microwave (OTR), saves space in your kitchen, it could, however, result in lower air quality.  Over the Range Microwaves Below are the most common pros and cons for over-the-range microwave units. Pros
Cons
If you cook a lot at home, consider the smaller coverage area of an over-the-range microwave. The small exhaust fan simply filters and then recirculates the air back into the kitchen. OTR vents are often not large enough to adequately vent out all of the smoke and steam. Sufficient airflow and filtration are essential when cooking fish, greasy foods, Asian, or Middle Eastern dishes. One might argue that a 30" Frigidaire Professional OTR is the most efficient venting solution. Meanwhile, a $ $250 GE Dedicated Range Hood will do the trick for light to moderate cooking. ProTip Takeaway: For those who cook frequently, a vent to the outside is a must. Safety HazardsOTR microwaves also pose a safety hazard due to the nature of their location and height. Small children climbing over hot soups and boiling water trying to reach the microwave is just unacceptable. Not to mention, microwaves, in general, are a bad idea and tend to overcook our foods. ProTip Takeaway: OTR microwaves are hazardous for children and those of short stature. Range HoodsBelow are the most common pros and cons of dedicated range hoods. Pros
A professionally installed, right-sized, and vented range hood will do a vastly superior job of removing cooking odors from your kitchen. You will simply improve the air quality of your home by venting fumes outdoors. Cons
ProTip Takeaway: A vented to the outside range hood provides better air filtration to keep the air in your home fresh and odor-free. Do not just take our word for it; some of our customers agree: "When we gutted and renovated our kitchen, I went with a hood. It gives you much better air filtration - so necessary when you cannot vent to the outside. An OTR microwave never has as much power. I put my little micro on a shelf in my tiny pantry. It is out of the way, but I don't look at it and only use it once a day." -Jonathon, Houston, TX "If you do a lot of cooking, you probably need better quality range hood than typically comes with an MW." -Fred & Kim, Sugar Land, TX "A hood is the absolute best way to go. Vent through the roof and not the side of the home". "I do not like the microwave over the stove. I believe it presents a small hazard if someone, especially a short person, spilled something while removing it. You also have to reach over the cooktop of the stove which may be hot. I put my micro in a niche built for it on an island". At the end of the day, if you like your air fresh and clean, a dedicated range is your best bet. Get Started Today!So, for all these reasons, you should consider installing an over-the-range microwave or dedicated range hood in your kitchen. They will also be a great addition to your home. Smart Remodeling, LLC can help transform your kitchen and meet your needs and style. Ready to start your perfect kitchen remodel project? We can help. With our complimentary design services, we can help you determine between over-the-range microwave venting and a dedicated range hood that is best suited for you and your family's needs. Contact us for a free consultation today. Views Can I use an over the range microwave without a vent?Do Over-the-range Microwaves Vent Outside? Not all over the range microwaves vent outside, but ducted applications do. Venting a microwave outside is usually considered an upgrade because it's the best option to getting rid of airborne smoke, steam and grease.
How does an over the range microwave vent?Some over-the-range microwaves have exhaust fans that vent kitchen air out of the house through ductwork in the wall. Some don't and instead filter, then push it back out into the kitchen. Many will come with the ability to do either, so you must choose which one and set it up before installing.
Does a built in microwave need to be vented?Adequate ventilation, especially if the microwave is built into a wall of cabinetry, is a must.
What happens if a microwave is not properly vented?Ventilation: Do not block air vents. If they are blocked during operation, the oven may overheat and eventually cause oven failure. For proper ventilation, keep three inches of space between the oven's top, sides, rear and the area where the unit is to be installed.
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Does over the range microwave need to be vented
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