Do Microwaves Need To Be Vented? (Find Out Now!)

Upgraded Home Team
by Upgraded Home Team
Venting appliances is often necessary as a safety measure, but does that apply to microwaves? Microwaves sometimes have to be vented, such as when they are above the range. Whether it be the location of the microwave or zoning laws, let’s explore whether or not you should vent your microwave.

When designing a kitchen, you also need to consider the appliances you’ll be using. One particular issue that bothers many homeowners is the installation of an over-the-range microwave. Perhaps the most common question that many people have is if microwaves need to be vented.

You generally only need to vent a microwave if you install it above the range in your kitchen. Microwaves that go beneath the range in your kitchen generally have built-in fans instead. External venting is required in some zones and counties, so check your local building codes.

When you’re installing an over-the-range microwave, you have a couple of options to vent smoke and steam in the kitchen. Read on to learn more about over-the-range microwave ventilation.

Do You Need Ducts or Vents Installation or Replacement?

Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.

Do I Need to Ventilate My Over-The-Range Microwave?

Over-the-range microwaves are installed above the range or cooktop in place of a range hood. They’re no different than your standard countertop units. However, over-the-range microwaves have the added functionality of eliminating smoke, steam, and other kitchen odors.

An over-the-range microwave oven usually takes the spot of the range hood. Therefore, the absence of a range hood means that you need to ventilate your microwave. Otherwise, you’ll be violating building codes. But as mentioned above, some models don’t need to be vented

Although vented over-the-range microwaves are fairly efficient in cleaning the air in your kitchen, they’re no replacement for a quality range hood. However, many people still prefer to use over-the-range microwaves.

Over-the-Range Microwave Venting Options

Building codes require you to have a ventilation system installed over the range. Typically, the system has a light that illuminates the stovetop and a fan that eliminates smoke and steam from the air. In an over-the-range microwave, the light and fan are built-in into the bottom.

When it comes to venting options, you have two main options to choose from.

External Ventilation

With microwaves that feature a physical vent, the unit pushes the removed air through the ductwork and outside. In terms of ventilation performance, external venting is generally the way to go as it’s the most effective and efficient way to clean air.

However, external venting installation is not for the faint of heart. You need to install a series of ducts from the cabinet above the microwave to the outside of your home.

Recirculating Ventilation

On the other hand, some microwaves come with recirculating ventilation aka non-vented or ductless. This ventilation system sucks in the air into the microwave’s filter and recirculates it back to the kitchen. In many cases, you can see visible vents at the top of the frame for pushing the recirculated air.

In some models, the microwave uses a charcoal filter to clean the air. The microwave traps airborne pollutants in the charcoal before the air is released back into the kitchen. Although the vented air quality isn’t that great, you do get a far cleaner air than what was initially removed.

External Ventilation vs. Recirculating Ventilation

So which ventilation system is right for your over-the-range microwave? Here are a couple of factors to consider.

Ventilation Effectiveness

As far as ventilation quality goes, external venting is the winner hands down. The appliance pushes the kitchen air through an exhaust port to the outside environment. This results in much cleaner air when compared to microwaves with recirculating vents.

A microwave with recirculating ventilation usually comes with a light and fan. The fan sucks in kitchen smoke, steam, and odors, and it goes through a certain type of filter. The recirculated air is then released back into the kitchen.

As you might expect, the vented air quality from recirculating microwaves isn’t as good as a dedicated ventilation system.

Installation

Unless there’s already an existing ducted vent, installing an over-the-range microwave with external vents is no easy task. This job requires the installation of an exterior vent cap and ductwork. On top of that, you’ll also need to pierce either the wall, ceiling, or roof.

In comparison, installing a microwave with a recirculating vent is generally easier, not to mention cheaper. These units usually come pre-assembled and need no further installation. For sure, your DIY skills won’t be tested here. Do you want to see how it’s done? Check out the video posted below.

Vent Requirements

When you plan to install an over-the-range microwave, another important consideration is the building standards. It’s important to follow the building codes for safety purposes. These building standards apply to both external and recirculating ventilation.

According to the International Residential Code, the clearance between the stovetop and any combustible surface should be 30 inches. Furthermore, it’s always a good idea to check your local building codes before the installation.

In general, over-the-range microwave ovens are designed for less clearance. A good rule of thumb is to mount the unit according to the manufacturer’s specifications. For instance, General Electric requires that the clearance between the top of the microwave and the floor is 66 inches.

Maintenance

In terms of maintenance, external vs. recirculating vents are about the same. Perhaps the most common issue with over-the-range microwaves is the grease filter. Over time, the filter becomes slimy with grease which can be difficult to clean.

With a normal degree of cooking, the charcoal filter of recirculating microwaves will get clogged. Charcoal filters are difficult to wash and reuse so you’re better off stocking up on replacement filters. Fortunately, charcoal filters are easy to remove and replace, and you should do so every 6 months.

Pros and Cons of Over-The-Range Microwaves

Is the over-the-range microwave oven the right choice for your kitchen? Here are the pros and cons of the appliance that you should consider.

The Pros

  • True Space Savers – When you have a small kitchen you need all the space that you can get. The biggest benefit of installing over-the-range microwaves is that they help you save space. Over-the-range microwaves will help you save counter space for other appliances and food preparation.
  • Built-In Ventilation – Another great feature of over-the-range ovens is the built-in ventilation. They have fans that eliminate smoke, steam, and odors. This double functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated range hood.
  • Out of Reach – Many parents appreciate over-the-range ovens because they’re out of reach of children. Since they’re installed above the range, you don’t have to worry about your kids getting their hands on the microwave.

The Cons

  • Awkward Location – If you can’t install the appliance at a comfortable height, using the microwave can be awkward and comfortable. The height makes it harder for short people to use the microwave.
  • Potential for Burns and Spills – The height of the microwave makes it easy to spill hot food while removing it. Being close to the stovetop, there’s always the danger of burns. This is why sufficient clearance should be observed between the range and microwave.
  • Unattractive Aesthetic – Microwave ovens don’t look so great when placed above the range – at least when compared to professional range hoods. With a range hood, you can easily match the color and design to the stove and kitchen décor.

Do You Need Ducts or Vents Installation or Replacement?

Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.


Related Questions

Can You Replace a Microwave With a Range Hood?

Yes! Many homeowners prefer to replace their over-the-range microwave oven with either a ducted or ductless hood. When it comes to ventilating a kitchen space, a professional range hood is hands down the best venting solution.Compared to charcoal filters that come with over-the-range microwaves, stainless steel filters from hoods are more efficient. The grease is captured properly, and the excess is vented out of your home. Replacing a microwave with a range hood is a definite upgrade.


How High Is The Clearance Between the Microwave and Stovetop?

Before installing your over-the-range microwave, make sure that you’re aware of your local building codes. Building codes specify that any appliance, including microwaves, should have a clearance between the top of the range and bottom of the microwave.Building codes can vary within your local area. For example, California building codes require that the clearance should be a minimum of 24 inches. If the hood or microwave is combustible, the minimum clearance should be 30 inches.Although your state may have a universal building code for range hoods and microwaves, it’s superseded by the local area you live in. Check with your city hall for your local building codes.


Are Over-The-Range Microwaves Still In Style?

The over-the-range microwave has been around since the 1980s. Although it’s a classic configuration for many household kitchens, it’s not as popular as it used to be. True enough, you don’t see that many over-the-range microwaves these days.While over-the-range microwaves are capable of venting smoke and odor in the kitchen, there’s a better option. Nowadays, people prefer to install range hoods instead because they’re superior in power and efficiency. Plus, they can be installed to match the color and décor of the kitchen.Overall, there’s still a place for over-the-range microwaves, especially in the homes of those who prefer a classic range setup. However, for everyone else, a range hood is a better long-term investment.

Related Guides

Upgraded Home Team
Upgraded Home Team

We are a team of passionate homeowners, home improvement pros, and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy sharing home improvement, housekeeping, decorating, and more with other homeowners! Whether you're looking for a step-by-step guide on fixing an appliance or the cost of installing a fence, we've here to help.

More by Upgraded Home Team

Next