If you’re like me, you probably use your microwave on a daily basis to quickly heat up leftovers or make a quick snack. It’s a versatile and convenient appliance, but have you ever wondered where all that steam and smoke goes when you’re using it? Many microwaves have a built-in ventilation system that helps to remove these byproducts, but how do you know if your microwave vents outside or simply recirculates the air? In this quick guide, I’ll show you a few easy ways to tell if your microwave vents outside.
Checking for External Ventilation
Location
The first thing to consider is the location of your microwave. In most kitchens, microwaves are placed above the range or stove. If this is the case, chances are that your microwave vents outside. Look around the area where your microwave is installed and see if there is a vent opening or exhaust duct leading to the outside. It is usually located at the back of the microwave, but it can also be on the top or sides.
Feel for Air
Another way to determine if your microwave vents outside is to feel for air movement. When your microwave is running, place your hand near the vent opening. If you feel a strong and steady airflow, it is a good indication that your microwave vents outside. However, if you don’t feel any air movement or if it is weak and inconsistent, it is likely that your microwave recirculates the air.
Check the Exhaust Hood
If your microwave is installed above a range or stove, it is also worth checking if there is an exhaust hood present. An exhaust hood is a separate venting system that captures and removes cooking odors, steam, and smoke from the kitchen. It is usually installed above the range and has its own ventilation system. If you have an exhaust hood, it is more likely that your microwave vents outside as well.
Recirculating Ventilation
If you have checked for external ventilation and haven’t found any, it is possible that your microwave recirculates the air. In this type of ventilation system, the air is drawn into the microwave through the front vent and then passes through a series of filters. These filters are designed to remove grease, smoke, and odors before the air is released back into the kitchen. While recirculating ventilation is not as effective as external ventilation, it is still better than having no ventilation at all.
Check for Filters
To determine if your microwave recirculates the air, look for filters inside the microwave. These filters are usually made of metal and are located behind the vent openings. They can be easily removed and cleaned or replaced. If you find filters in your microwave, it is a clear indication that your microwave recirculates the air.
Odor and Smoke
If you still have doubts about the ventilation system of your microwave, pay attention to the odor and smoke when you’re using it. Recirculating ventilation may not be as efficient as external ventilation, so you might notice lingering cooking smells or smoke. If you frequently experience strong smells or see smoke lingering in your kitchen after using the microwave, it is likely that your microwave recirculates the air.
In conclusion, determining if your microwave vents outside can be done through a few simple steps. By checking the location and feeling for air movement, you can easily tell if your microwave has external ventilation. On the other hand, if you find filters and notice lingering odors or smoke, it is more likely that your microwave recirculates the air. Understanding the ventilation system of your microwave is important in order to ensure proper airflow and maintain a healthy kitchen environment.