If you don’t have any available counter space for a microwave, there are a few creative options for you to use. One option is to hang the microwave from the wall or ceiling. This can be easily accomplished with a microwave shelf or bracket.
Another option is to get an under-the-cabinet microwave. This type of microwave is designed to fit in between the counter and the bottom of the cabinet, so you don’t lose any counter space. You can also use a cart or shelf to place the microwave on.
This option can free up valuable counter space by moving the microwave to another part of the room. Finally, you can put the microwave in a cabinet or cupboard. This option can help save valuable space and keep your kitchen looking organized.
Can I sit an over the range microwave as countertop?
No, placing a microwave oven over the range was specifically designed to be a space-saving measure and as such, it is not recommended to be used as a countertop oven. Standing a microwave oven over the range is safer, since you will not be reaching up to place the food inside or take it out.
Plus, it will be less likely to be knocked over accidentally, since it is securely tucked in place. The design of the over the range microwave ovens also does not lend itself to easily sit atop a counter.
The vents and fan to disperse the heat are all located at the back of the microwave, which means that the microwave will not be stable when placed on the countertop. The bottom of the microwave is also typically not flat, as it is made to fit snuggly over a range, which could cause it to tip and create a hazard.
Based on all this, it is not recommended to countertop mount an over the range microwave oven.
Can you mount any microwave over the stove?
Yes, you can mount a microwave over the stove, but it is not without some precautions. It is important to take the size and power of your microwave into account before selecting a mounting option. If you have an electric stove, the insulation needed between the microwave and the stove can create an even bigger challenge.
You can purchase mounting kits made specifically for microwaves, but they should still be installed with the help of a professional to ensure the appliance is securely mounted in place. Additionally, the materials used to construct the mounting brackets should be certifiably rated for heat and weight, as microwaves tend to be larger and heavier than wall-mounted microwaves.
Finally, the microwave should not be positioned too close to the burner or risk touching the stovetop, so ensure the unit is mounted high enough above the oven surface to avoid any potential damage or danger.
How much does it cost to have an over the range microwave installed?
The cost to have an over the range microwave installed depends on a few factors, such as the type of microwave you’re purchasing, local labor costs, the difficulty of the installation, and the cost of materials.
The basic installation cost for an over the range microwave typically ranges from $200-$300, but can cost upwards of $500 if more complicated installation is needed. This usually includes installation of the microwave itself and any necessary electrical or woodwork modifications.
Additionally, you may need to purchase items such as sheet metal, additional brackets, clamps, or mounting hardware in order to properly secure the microwave and ensure it is safely installed. Most installers will be able to discuss sets of hardware with you and explain the cost of these materials.
When budgeting for a microwave installation, factor in additional costs such as the cost of a professional installer and any necessary parts or materials.
Do Over the range microwaves have exhaust fans?
Yes, over the range microwaves have exhaust fans. The exhaust fan works to remove smoke, grease, and other byproducts used during cooking. It helps decrease odors and smoke from entering into other parts of the home and keeps the kitchen area fresh.
The exhaust fan can be vented to the outside of the home or it can be vented to recirculate the air back into the room. Many over the range microwaves have a settings feature that allows you to change the fan speed or turn it off altogether.
The exhaust fan will also typically come with a grease filter and charcoal filter to help further reduce the odors from cooking.
Is microwave over stove outdated?
No, microwave ovens over the stove are not outdated. The design of microwave ovens over the stove has been a popular kitchen trend for the last few decades. Many home cooks find the convenience of a microwave oven located over the stove invaluable for reheating leftovers and quickly preparing meals.
The design allows for easy access and its positioning prevents having to find space for a microwave elsewhere in the kitchen. Additionally, the design adds modern flair to the kitchen aesthetic. Even though some people may consider microwaves over the stove as an outdated trend, many still find the traditional design convenient and aesthetically pleasing.
What happens if you don’t vent a microwave?
If you don’t vent a microwave, the steam and condensation generated while cooking and heating food will be unable to escape. This will cause moisture to build up inside the microwave, which can result in a number of problems.
In the short-term, it can cause the interior to become filthy with food residue, and can also prevent the fan from circulating air properly, resulting in inefficient cooking and heating of food. Ultimately, failure to vent a microwave could create a much more serious issue; the moisture could potentially seep into the wiring or electronics, leading to a potential fire hazard.
Additionally, moisture build-up can also contribute to decay in other components of the microwave, such as the rubber door seals. To avoid any of those potential issues, it is highly recommended that all microwaves should be vented.
Can I mount a regular microwave?
Yes, you can mount a regular microwave if you use a special kit or bracket to secure it. The kit or bracket should be specifically designed for microwaves, and the instructions should include instructions on how to properly mount it.
The reason for this is because microwaves require a secure and safe mount for proper operation. Ensure that you follow all instructions in the kit and that you use all the necessary and supplied materials to mount the microwave.
Additionally, once the microwave is mounted, it is important to check that it is securely fastened and bolted down to ensure proper operation.
Do you have to hang over the range microwave?
No, you do not have to hang over the range microwave. Some microwaves are designed for countertop installation, which is an easy and straightforward way to install a microwave. Another option is to install a built-in microwave, which may require cabinet modifications or custom installation instructions.
Another option is to purchase a microwave cart or shelf unit and install the microwave on it. This provides a good solution if you are looking to have a more convenient and flexible cooking solution.
Whatever type of installation you choose, always ensure that you have access to a properly grounded electrical outlet, and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Does a built-in microwave need ventilation?
Yes, a built-in microwave needs ventilation. If the air flow around the microwave is obstructed, it can cause a fire hazard, particularly if the microwave is used frequently. The fan that is included in most built-in microwaves helps to prevent overheating by forcing air in, cooling the interior and expelling hot air outside the unit.
It’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for installation to ensure proper ventilation. Generally, a vented hood or exhaust fan should be installed directly above the microwave, to ensure that hot air is pulled away from the unit.
If this ventilation is not in place, the microwave may not operate properly, as the internal components will become increasingly hot with continued use. Additionally, to reduce the risk of fire, it’s important to keep the microwave free of grease, food residue and other waste.
This is especially important if the unit does not have adequate ventilation, as the excess heat generated by the microwave will be difficult to ventilate.
How do you vent an interior wall microwave?
Installing a microwave in an interior wall requires special attention to venting the appliance properly. The best method of venting an interior wall microwave is to use a combination of both recirculation and external vented exhaust.
Recirculation ventilation works by running the microwave’s air through a filter. This filter, most commonly activated charcoal, traps airborne contaminants and circulates the air back inside the microwave.
This method does not require an external vent, only an appropriate filter.
External venting, on the other hand, requires running a duct from the microwave to an exterior wall. The duct should be sized appropriately for the amount of air being exhausted. Many models of microwaves come with a specific external ventilation kit, containing the necessary duct parts.
Make sure to use the duct provided with the microwave, as this is the appropriate size and type for optimal performance.
Once the venting set up is complete, be sure to test for proper air flow. This can be done with a smoke pencil. Smoke should appear at the exterior vent opening when the oven fan is on. If smoke appears inside the kitchen, go back and adjust the ducts until it only exits the external vent.
Proper venting is key to ensure that your interior wall mounted microwave runs safely and efficiently. By following the advice above, you can ensure that your microwave is correctly vented to keep steam and smoke away from your home, and maintain performance.
What is the difference between over the range and built in microwave?
The primary difference between an over the range and a built in microwave is the way they are installed in the kitchen. Over the range microwaves are mounted above the range or cooktop and are built with an exhaust system to remove smoke, odors and steam from the kitchen.
These microwaves hang either above the range or at countertop level depending on the space available. A built-in microwave on the other hand is installed within a niche in the kitchen wall with all of its sides completely enclosed to create a seamless, modern look.
The exhaust fan is typically installed in the wall below or above the appliance so that it can be vented outside or filtered back into the kitchen. Built-in microwaves offer more versatility since there is no fixed space it must occupy and homeowners can customize their installation to fit their needs.
They are typically more expensive than over the range models and require more installation cost and effort.
Is it safe to put a countertop microwave in a cabinet?
No, it is not safe to put a countertop microwave in a cabinet. Countertop microwaves often have a vent on the back that needs to be free to allow for proper ventilation of the unit. Placing the microwave in a cabinet not only restricts this airflow, but can also be a fire hazard due to the trapped heat trapped in the cabinet, as well as potential electrical hazards from the wires being too close to wood.
Additionally, a countertop microwave is designed to be mounted above a counter, not within a cabinet, so the unit may not be able to be properly secured in the cabinet. The safest option is to keep the microwave on an open countertop and make sure that it has a minimum of 6 inches of breathing room on the sides, back, and top.
How much space do you need around a microwave cabinet?
It is recommended that you leave about 4 inches of space between the microwave cabinet and any other cabinets or walls. If there is a lot of steam produced, then leave a greater distance of 6-12 inches.
Additionally, you should make sure the cabinet is located at least 18” away from the cooktop to reduce flammable material contact. On either side of the cabinet, the back should protrude at least 6 inches, this will help reduce the risk of fire.
If your microwave is installed over a range hood, it should be placed at least 24” away from the burners. Allowing some extra space around the microwave cabinet allows you to achieve maximum safety and usability.
Are built-in microwaves worth it?
Whether built-in microwaves are worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. Generally, built-in microwaves are pricier than countertop models, so that should be taken into consideration.
However, the benefit of built-in microwaves is that they can be integrated into your kitchen design. Additionally, in many cases, they come with a trim or filler kit that lets you hide the sides and have a flush, integrated look.
Built-in microwaves also typically have more power and larger interiors than countertop models, which offers more flexibility with cooking and heating. Additionally, because they are installed in the wall, they tend to provide a better overall look and finish.
On the other hand, built-in microwaves tend to cost more than countertop models and require more installation, as well as ventilation considerations. If you opt for a built-in model, you’ll need to account for the additional costs of installation and setup in your budget.
Ultimately, deciding whether a built-in microwave is worth it is a personal decision. Taking into account your kitchen design, budget and usage needs can help you determine whether a built-in microwave is a good option for your home.