What Is an External Vent Microwave and How Does It Work?

Have you ever wondered how your microwave oven actually works? I certainly did. As someone who loves cooking and experimenting with new recipes, I thought it was about time I understood the inner workings of this indispensable kitchen appliance.

After some research, I discovered that there are different types of microwave ovens available, one of which is the external vent microwave. In this article, I will delve into what exactly an external vent microwave is and how it differs from other types of microwaves. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

A Brief Introduction to Microwave Ovens

Before diving into external vent microwaves, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how microwave ovens work. Microwaves utilize electromagnetic waves, known as microwaves, to heat food quickly and efficiently. These waves penetrate the food and cause the water molecules present in the food to vibrate, generating heat and cooking the food.

Understanding External Vent Microwaves

Now that we know the basics of microwave ovens, let’s talk about external vent microwaves. As the name suggests, these microwaves come with an external venting system. Unlike other microwaves that recirculate the air within the cooking chamber, external vent microwaves vent the air outside the house through a duct.

Why Choose an External Vent Microwave?

External vent microwaves offer several advantages over their non-vented counterparts. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider investing in an external vent microwave for your kitchen:

Improved Air Quality: By venting the air outside, these microwaves eliminate odors, smoke, and grease that can linger in the kitchen. This leads to improved air quality and a fresher-smelling kitchen.

Efficient Elimination of Moisture: When you cook food in a microwave, it releases steam and moisture. External vent microwaves effectively remove this moisture, preventing it from causing damage to your cabinets or walls.

Reduced Cooking Time: One of the main advantages of external vent microwaves is the reduction in cooking time. The venting process allows for faster heat dissipation, ensuring your food is cooked evenly and quickly.

How Do External Vent Microwaves Work?

Now that we have established the benefits of external vent microwaves, let’s take a closer look at how they actually work:

Cooking and Venting Process: When you place your food inside the cooking chamber of an external vent microwave and start the cooking process, microwaves are emitted and penetrate the food. Simultaneously, the internal exhaust fan pulls in the air from the cooking chamber and pushes it towards the external vent.

The External Vent: The external vent is usually located on an exterior wall of your house. It allows the air, odors, moisture, and grease to escape from the kitchen and be expelled outside.

Installation: Installing an external vent microwave requires a bit more effort than installing a non-vented microwave. It involves connecting the venting duct to the microwave and running it through an exterior wall. It is essential to ensure that the duct is properly installed and does not have any kinks or bends that can impede the airflow.

Additional Considerations

Before purchasing an external vent microwave, there are a few additional factors to consider:

Kitchen Layout: Ensure that your kitchen layout allows for the proper installation and venting of the microwave. Consider the distance between the cooking chamber and the external vent to ensure efficient venting.

Noise Level: Some external vent microwaves can be relatively noisy due to the powerful exhaust fan necessary for effective venting. Consider the noise levels and choose a model that suits your preferences.

Professional Installation: Due to the complexity of the venting process, it is recommended to have external vent microwaves professionally installed. This ensures a proper installation and minimizes the risk of any issues down the line.

Conclusion

In summary, an external vent microwave is a specialized type of microwave oven that vents the air outside the house through a duct. By effectively removing odors, smoke, and moisture, it offers improved air quality and avoids damage from excess moisture. With faster cooking times and efficient heat dissipation, it is a great option for those looking for an upgrade in their kitchen appliances. However, it is important to consider the kitchen layout and installation requirements before making a purchase. So, why not consider an external vent microwave and level up your cooking game?