Venting requirements Countertop microwaves do not require any venting hookups or special installation. However, you will need to have an open space above the microwave to allow the heat and steam to escape. If you do not have an open space above the microwave, you may need to purchase a venting kit.
All operating microwave ovens require a level of the ventilation system. Even though there are no open flames or hot surfaces, the heat produced by the microwave and the moisture released from food is enough to cause malfunction and efficiency issues.
A microwave oven, designed exclusively for a kitchen countertop, has vents that are built into the back of the microwave. If installed into a cabinet, these vents will be blocked and unable to release steam from the microwave.
Depending on your model, some over-the-range microwaves operate by using exhaust fans to vent kitchen air out of the house through ductwork in the wall while others use a filter to recirculate air. Other models have the ability to do both.
No, countertop microwaves do not need a vent. If you mount a range hood over your stove, it will remove all the pesky smoke and cooking odors.
There is no requirement that your Over The Range (OTR) Microwave be vented to the outdoors. All OTR microwave ovens can be set up to either allow the fan to recirculate the air back into the kitchen or be vented to the outdoors.
The main difference between countertop and built-in microwaves is the installation. Countertop models are installed on your kitchen counters by simply plugging the appliance into a nearby outlet, while built-ins are installed directly into cabinets or walls in your kitchen.
Freestanding microwaves can also be known as countertop microwave ovens, simply because they stand on top of your worktop. A freestanding microwave is simply a microwave that stands alone from other appliances. It will sit on your countertop, where ever you choose to place it.
Countertop Models: 3" of clearance on both sides and the top. 1" clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3" or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping.
Microwave ovens have air vents to stop them overheating. The air inside, and the food, gets hot. If you block the vents, they overheat and stop working.
Microwaves are shipped from the factory to vent out the top (vertically) but can also be vented out the rear (horizontally). The duct must be the sizes listed above for proper draw of air. Both smaller and larger vents than recommended decrease venting performance.
Countertop microwave ovens have vents on the sides, bottom, or both to keep them cool while the magnetron generates heat. Therefore, it is completely normal for your countertop microwave to emit warm air, given that it is from the vents.
Countertop models can be tucked into a shelf or opening in the cabinetry for a built-in look that allows you to move the microwave off the work surface. For safety, it's best to find a location that offers landing space below. The more tightly the microwave fits into the space, the more streamlined it looks.
Microwave ovens should be vented properly when placed inside a cabinet. You need to ensure that there is sufficient airflow around your microwave oven. As mentioned earlier, consult the manufacturer's manual for the appropriate size clearance.
Microwave ovens often demand dedicated circuits, but it will depend on the wattage of the unit and whether the microwave is built-in or a stand-alone countertop design. The National Electrical Code requires one for fixed equipment, so a circuit must be set aside for any built-in oven or microwave.
Countertop microwaves are freestanding units that can be placed on your kitchen counter near an electrical outlet. These models are a great option for renters because of their flexibility: they don't require any renovation to be installed and can fit in many different locations inside your kitchen.
Microwaves heat food by causing water molecules to vibrate, which produces heat. In theory, microwaves can heat body tissues in the same way they heat food, and at high levels, microwaves can cause burns and cataracts, according to the FDA.
The electrical and breaker size requirements for our Countertop and Over-the-Range Microwaves are as follows: The microwaves require a 120 volt, individual, properly grounded branch circuit with a 3 prong grounding type receptacle protected by a 15 or 20 amp circuit breaker or time-delay fuse.
Different venting options: External venting sends the smoke through an outside exhaust vent, whereas a recirculating venting microwave pulls air through a charcoal filter then vents it back into the house.
Ducted or vented microwaves feature exhaust fans that vent air outside of the house. Recirculating, non-ducted or updraft microwaves filter air then push it back into the kitchen. Convertible microwaves give you the option to select your ventilation type.
Over-the-Range Microwave ovens and Advantium/Five in One ovens cannot be used on a counter or shelf and are not UL (Underwriters Laboratory) approved for this purpose. Keep in mind the underside is not flat on an Over-the-Range Microwave or Advantium/Five in One oven. This would not provide a stable surface.
For vented over-the-range microwaves, you may need to spend $150 to $600 to install new venting ductwork. It's best to install a direct vent to the outdoors since you can't vent into your attic or crawl space, nor can you connect it to common ductwork.
It is normal to have air blown out from the front bottom of the microwave oven's door. The reason is that there is a fan motor operating to bring down the heat generated from the magnetron when it is on.