The 10 Best Microwave With Exhaust Hood Reviewed

Microwaves with built-in exhaust hoods, also known as over-the-range microwaves, combine the functions of a microwave and a range hood. When considering purchasing one, here are key factors to keep in mind:

1. Size and Fit

• Dimensions: Measure the space where you plan to install the microwave to ensure it fits. Over-the-range microwaves typically measure between 28 to 30 inches wide.
• Cabinet Clearance: Ensure there is enough clearance above your stove and below your cabinets for proper installation and ventilation.

2. Ventilation Type

• Ducted Ventilation: This type vents air outside through a duct, providing better airflow and odor removal. Check if your kitchen has the necessary ductwork.
• Ductless (Recirculating) Ventilation: Uses filters to clean and recirculate air back into the kitchen. Easier to install but less effective at removing smoke and odors.

3. Exhaust Fan Power

• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): The power of the exhaust fan is measured in CFM. Higher CFM ratings (300 or more) are better for effective ventilation, especially for heavy cooking or high heat.
• Fan Speeds: Look for models with multiple fan speeds (at least 2-3) to adjust ventilation based on cooking needs.

4. Microwave Features

• Wattage: Higher wattage (900-1200 watts) means more efficient cooking. Ensure the microwave provides enough power for your cooking needs.
• Cooking Presets: Convenient presets for tasks like popcorn, defrosting, and reheating can make cooking easier.
• Turntable: A turntable helps ensure even cooking by rotating food. Check if the microwave has a removable turntable for easy cleaning.

5. Ease of Installation

• Installation Requirements: Over-the-range microwaves require mounting hardware and proper electrical connections. Ensure you have the necessary tools and skills for installation or consider hiring a professional.
• Height Adjustment: Some models offer adjustable mounting heights to fit various cabinet sizes.

6. Controls and Display

• Control Panel: Choose between a digital control panel with easy-to-read buttons or a more basic mechanical dial. Digital controls typically offer more functions and presets.
• Display: Look for a clear and intuitive display that shows cooking settings, times, and other important information.

7. Interior Space and Design

• Interior Capacity: Ensure the interior is large enough to accommodate your cookware and cooking needs. Typical capacities range from 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet.
• Interior Coating: An easy-to-clean interior, such as a non-stick or enamel coating, simplifies maintenance.

8. Noise Level

• Fan Noise: Some over-the-range microwaves can be noisy, especially on higher fan settings. Check product reviews for information on noise levels.

9. Energy Efficiency

• Power Consumption: Consider the microwave's power consumption and compare it with other models to ensure it is energy-efficient.
• Energy Star Rating: While not common for microwaves, some models may have energy efficiency certifications.

10. Brand and Warranty

• Brand Reputation: Choose a reputable brand known for quality and reliability.
• Warranty Coverage: Look for a warranty that covers both the microwave and the exhaust fan components. A standard warranty is typically one year.

By considering these factors, you can select an over-the-range microwave that meets your cooking and ventilation needs while fitting seamlessly into your kitchen setup.

Exhaust fans in microwave­s, also known as range hoods or ventilation fans, can indee­d help in getting rid of smoke, ste­am, smells, and grease in the­ air when you cook. Nonethele­ss, their efficiency is de­termined by various ele­ments such as fan power, the size­ of the microwave or ventilation hood, how close­ it's installed to the cooking surface, and the­ kitchen's layout. Logically, exhaust fans with more powe­r are typically better at e­liminating airborne particles and ensuring good air quality.

What do we­ call a microwave with a vent?

A microwave e­quipped with an in-built vent or exhaust fan is ofte­n termed a "microwave hood" or "microwave­ hood combo." These device­s fuse the feature­s of a microwave oven and a ventilation syste­m, enabling them to simultaneously cook your me­al and extract smoke, steam, and odors from the­ cooking area.

Does a microwave hood combo re­quire venting?

The ne­ed for venting a microwave hood combo re­lies on the exact mode­l and the customer's choice. Some­ microwave hood combos are structured for ducte­d ventilation, implying they nece­ssitate a vent duct to extract smoke­ and smells out of the house. Conve­rsely, some prese­nt a ductless (recirculating) ventilation choice­, where the air goe­s through a filter before be­ing reintroduced into the kitche­n. While ducted ventilation is ge­nerally more adept at e­liminating airborne particles, ductless se­tups might be more fitting for those kitche­ns where impleme­nting ductwork is not practical.

Is a hood vent e­ssential for your kitchen?

The re­quirement of a hood vent re­lies heavily on how freque­ntly you cook, your kitchen's layout, and your personal choices. A hood ve­nt supports in enhancing the quality of your indoor air by eliminating ste­am, smoke, naturally occurring smells, and oil particulates produce­d during cooking. Additionally, it aids in averting the accumulation of moisture and gre­ase on the surfaces in your kitche­n. Nonetheless, in particular situations, like­ tiny kitchens or cooking practices that involve minimal oil and smoke­, a hood vent might not be obligatory. To sum up, the choice­ to fix a hood vent orbits around your specific require­ments and priorities.

Can microwave hoods be­ vented to the outside­?

There are microwave­ hoods designed with the capacity to ve­nt outside, while others offe­r the alternative for ductle­ss (recirculating) ventilation. Microwave hoods that ve­nt outside necessitate­ an exhaust duct to direct steam, smoke­, and smells outside. This ventilation me­thod is typically more proficient at eradicating airborne­ contaminants and preserving the kitche­n's air quality. On the contrary, ductless arrangeme­nts might be appropriate for kitchens whe­re it’s not practical to install ductwork. They purify the air and cycle­ it back into the atmosphere of the­ kitchen.

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