I love cooking. Whether it’s experimenting with new recipes or preparing old family favorites, spending time in the kitchen brings me a great deal of joy. Recently, I decided to renovate my kitchen, and one of the changes I made was installing an over the range microwave. While researching this appliance, I came across a question that left me wondering – does an over the range microwave need to be vented? Curiosity got the better of me, and I delved into the world of microwave ventilation to find the answer.
Understanding Over the Range Microwaves
What is an over the range microwave?
Before we can discuss whether an over the range microwave needs to be vented, let’s first understand what it is. An over the range microwave, as the name suggests, is a microwave oven that is designed to be mounted above your cooking range. It serves a dual purpose – acting as both a microwave and a ventilation system for your stovetop.
How do over the range microwaves work?
Over the range microwaves typically have a ventilation system located on the underside of the appliance. This ventilation system includes a fan and a filter. The fan helps to remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen, while the filter traps grease and other airborne particles.
Do Over the Range Microwaves Need to be Vented?
A common misconception is that venting an over the range microwave is optional. However, the truth is that it is highly recommended to have your over the range microwave vented. Venting provides several essential benefits for your kitchen and home.
Removal of cooking odors and smoke
When you cook on your stovetop, especially when using high heat, a lot of steam, smoke, and strong odors can be generated. Without proper ventilation, these culinary byproducts can permeate your kitchen, leaving it smelling less than pleasant. Venting your over the range microwave ensures that these odors are efficiently extracted from your kitchen, leaving it fresh and clean.
Elimination of excess heat
Cooking can generate a substantial amount of heat, especially when you’re using your stovetop for an extended period. Without proper ventilation, this excess heat can accumulate in your kitchen, making it uncomfortable to work in. Venting your over the range microwave helps dissipate this heat, making your cooking space more comfortable and preventing any potential damage to your appliances.
Protection against grease and other airborne particles
When you cook, grease particles can become airborne and settle on surfaces throughout your kitchen. Over time, this can lead to a greasy film on cabinets, countertops, and even your appliances. Fortunately, the ventilation system in an over the range microwave includes a filter that captures these particles, preventing them from spreading and making cleaning up easier.
Prevention of mold and mildew
Without proper ventilation, excess moisture from cooking can accumulate in your kitchen. This moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive, leading to potential health and respiratory issues. By venting your over the range microwave, you can efficiently remove this excess moisture from your kitchen, preventing the growth of mold and mildew.
The Types of Venting
When it comes to venting an over the range microwave, there are two main options to consider:
Recirculating vent
In a recirculating vent setup, the air that is drawn in through the ventilation system is filtered and then released back into the kitchen. While this method does provide some benefits such as odor removal and grease filtration, it does not remove the excess heat or moisture from your kitchen.
Exterior vent
An exterior vent setup, also known as ducted venting, works by drawing the air from your kitchen through a ventilation duct and expelling it outdoors. This type of venting is the most effective at removing cooking odors, excess heat, and moisture from your kitchen.
Conclusion
After my research, I can confidently say that an over the range microwave does need to be vented. The ventilation system in these appliances plays a crucial role in maintaining a clean, comfortable, and healthy kitchen environment. Whether you choose a recirculating vent or an exterior vent setup, venting your over the range microwave will help ensure that your kitchen is free from cooking odors, excess heat, and mold-causing moisture. So, if you’re considering installing an over the range microwave, be sure to include proper ventilation in your plans for a truly functional and enjoyable cooking space.