Choosing the right over-the-range microwave can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it's easy to get lost in a sea of features and specifications. But don't worry! This guide will help you streamline the decision-making process and find the perfect appliance for your kitchen and cooking needs.Whether you're redoing your entire kitchen or just replacing an old appliance, here's what to know before you purchase an over the range microwave.

Understanding Over-the-Range Microwaves

Over-the-range microwaves (OTR microwaves) are space-saving kitchen appliances that combine the functionality of a microwave with a range hood. They are typically mounted above your cooktop, freeing up counter space and often improving ventilation compared to traditional range hoods.Here's a closer look at the two key functions of an OTR microwave:

  • Microwave: Just like countertop microwaves, OTR models offer various power levels and settings for reheating, defrosting, and cooking basic meals.
  • Range Hood: The built-in ventilation system helps remove smoke, grease, and odors produced while cooking on your stove top, keeping your kitchen fresh and clear.

While offering these core functionalities, OTR microwaves come in various sizes, wattages, and feature sets.Read: Everything to Know about Essential Kitchen Appliances

The Functionality and Benefits of Over-the-Range Microwaves

OTR microwaves offer a range of benefits to enhance your kitchen experience:

Enhanced Convenience

  • Streamlined Workflow: Having the microwave conveniently located above your cooktop eliminates the need to move between the stove and a separate appliance. This can be a game-changer, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.
  • Easy Access: No more reaching for a countertop microwave – OTR models offer easy access, especially for those with limited mobility or accessibility concerns.
  • Built-in Lighting: Many OTR models come with built-in lights that illuminate your cooktop, improving visibility and creating a safer cooking environment.

Expanded Cooking Options

Go beyond basic reheating and defrosting! Many OTR models offer various cooking settings, opening up a world of culinary possibilities:

  • Sensor Cooking: Forget about manually setting timers and guesswork. Sensor cooking allows the microwave to automatically adjust cooking time and power based on the type and amount of food, ensuring perfectly cooked meals.
  • Convection Baking: Enjoy a crispy and golden finish on your dishes with the convection setting, which utilizes a fan to circulate hot air for even cooking.
  • Grill Functionality: Some OTR microwaves come with a grill function, allowing you to sear meat, vegetables, and sandwiches for a delicious and convenient way to add variety to your meals.

Improved Kitchen Environment

  • Enhanced Ventilation: Compared to traditional range hoods, some OTR microwaves boast stronger ventilation systems that more effectively capture smoke, grease, and odors while you cook. This can improve air quality and comfort in your kitchen, which is especially beneficial for open-concept living spaces.
  • Reduced Energy Costs: By effectively removing heat and moisture from your kitchen, OTR microwaves can help your air conditioning system work more efficiently, potentially reducing energy costs.

Aesthetic Appeal

  • Variety of Styles and Finishes: OTR microwaves come in an array of sleek and modern designs, as well as classic styles, allowing you to choose one that complements your kitchen décor. Learn more about how to discover microwave models for your kitchen.

Differences Between Over-the-Range Microwaves and Countertop Microwaves

While OTR microwaves have plenty of benefits, it's important to understand how they measure up to other types. Let's compare OTR and countertop microwaves and their main differences:

Space

  • Countertop: Offers more flexibility regarding placement, potentially fitting into smaller kitchens with limited cabinet space.
  • OTR: Saves counter space but requires overhead cabinet installation, potentially limiting placement options.

Ventilation

  • Countertop: Lacks built-in ventilation and may require a separate installation of a range hood, depending on your cooking habits and kitchen layout.
  • OTR: Features integrated ventilation to remove smoke, grease, and odors, ideal for open kitchens or those with limited ventilation options.

Power and Capacity

  • Countertop: Generally, offers higher wattage and larger capacity, providing faster cooking times and more space for larger dishes.
  • OTR: Typically has a lower wattage and a smaller capacity due to space constraints, which may be sufficient for basic reheating and smaller meals.

Cost and Installation

  • Countertop: Generally less expensive and easier to install yourself, offering more flexibility in choosing an appliance within your budget and DIY capabilities.
  • OTR: Typically more expensive than countertop models due to their combined functionality. Installation often requires professional help, adding to the initial cost.

Aesthetics

  • Countertop: Offers a wider variety of styles and sizes to choose from, allowing for more personalized design choices.
  • OTR: May have limited style options due to their functional design and need to integrate with your kitchen cabinets.

Installation Considerations for Over-the-Range Microwaves

One of the key differences with OTR microwaves versus countertop or other options is the installation process. Properly installing an over-the-range microwave requires:

  • Adequate mounting space between cabinets
  • Proper ductwork and access to the ventilation system
  • Electrical power supply
  • Structurally sound mounting surface

Be sure to measure the space above your range when choosing an OTR model. Standard installation height is 30-36 inches from stovetop to bottom of microwave.Venting is also important- ensure ductwork aligns with the OTR ventilation system outlets. Microwaves with exposed bottom vents in particular require precise duct alignment. Because of these considerations, many homeowners hire professional installers if they don't have experience mounting heavy overhead appliances with electrical and ventilation connections. Consider installation costs, too, when purchasing an OTR microwave.

Key Features to Look for in Over-the-Range Microwaves

If an OTR microwave is right for your space, here are some features to look for:

Power and Size

OTR microwave power is measured in watts. Common power levels include:

  • Basic models: 600-1,000W
  • Mid-tier models: 1,000-1,200W
  • High-end/commercial: 1,200+W

Higher wattage equals faster cooking times. Consider what power level makes the most sense for your cooking needs. Standard OTR microwave capacity is 1.5-2.2 cubic feet. Measure your available installation space, then choose a model with adequate interior size. Be careful not to choose an overpowering or oversized OTR model for your needs and space - high performance units use more energy and large capacity interiors can limit ventilation effectiveness.

Convenience Features: Preset Cooking Modes, Sensors, and Turntables

Many OTR microwaves come with pre-programmed one-touch settings for commonly cooked foods like popcorn, pizza, baked potatoes, and more. This makes cooking simple dishes a breeze. Other features to look for include:

  • Smart Sensors: Smart sensors detect how much moisture is in your food. This eliminates the guesswork while you cook and leads to meals that are perfectly heated or defrosted.
  • Turntables: Look for an OTR microwave with a turntable, which spins your food around so everything cooks evenly. This is especially handy for larger dishes or when you're using oddly shaped cookware.

Ventilation Choices and Considerations

OTR microwaves offer different types of built-in ventilation:

  • Vented: Exterior exhaust fan pulls cooking fumes outside.
  • Recirculating: Internal fan filters and recirculates kitchen air.
  • Convertible: Switches between vented and recirculating.

Vented vents are more effective for removing smoke and odors, but recirculating models work well for occasional ventilation needs. Consider your current kitchen ventilation setup and cooking habits when deciding which oven venting type suits your needs.

Making Your Final Purchase Decision

In addition to microwave features, you need to consider factors like your budget and cooking style to decide what appliance is best for your home. Remember that microwaves come in tons of different styles, sizes, and capacities. Take time deciding what's best - you want to ensure you get the most out of your purchase!With all the information about OTR microwaves in mind, here are final considerations to make before your purchase.

Considering Your Cooking Lifestyle and Kitchen Design

Reflect on how you currently use your microwave and what tasks you need it for. Do you mostly reheat leftovers and cook frozen foods? Or do you use preset modes and convection cooking often? Over-the-range microwaves come with a variety of features and power levels to accommodate different cooking styles.You'll also want to measure your kitchen space above the range to find the right fit. Standard OTR microwave sizes include 30-inch wide and 36-inch wide for commercial-depth ranges. Make sure you have adequate cabinet space, factoring in ventilation requirements too before purchasing.The design, color, and finish of the microwave should also coordinate with the rest of your kitchen. Black stainless steel models can provide a more modern look, while plain stainless steel matches more traditional kitchens.

Budgeting for Your Over-the-Range Microwave

Over-the-range microwave prices vary greatly, typically ranging from $150 up to $1,000 or more. Setting a budget ahead of time is key.Before deciding based solely on price, factor in how often you plan to use the features. If you'll only occasionally use presets, cheaper over-the-range models may suffice. But avid cooks will benefit from extras like convection baking/broiling modes and humidity/temperature sensors.By weighing your intended microwave usage, kitchen space, budget, and expected product lifespan when buying, you can zero in on the best over-the-range option to suit your cooking needs and lifestyle for years to come.

Get Industry Insight from High Performance Home

If you're looking for insider insights into the latest innovations in the home industry, look to High Performance Home. On our blog, you'll find tops like how to integrate cooking with built-in microwaves and investing in a smart microwave for convenient kitchens. We track developments in the home industry to keep you updated on what's to come.Come visit us online today and stay informed on the cutting-edge trends in kitchen and home design. Plus, discover our mission to connect stakeholders in the home industry, driving performance and development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an over the range microwave have to be vented?

Yes, over-the-range microwaves need to be vented, but they offer flexibility in how the venting is done. You can choose to vent them outside through an external vent, or you can opt for recirculating venting, which filters and recirculates the air back into the kitchen. The specific installation and venting method will depend on your kitchen configuration and personal preference.

Are over the range microwaves a standard size?

Over the range microwaves are generally designed to fit standard cabinet widths, with the most common width being 30 inches. While there is some variation in height and depth, the industry tends to follow this standard to ensure compatibility with most kitchen cabinetry. This consistency in size helps simplify the process for homeowners looking to install or replace an over-the-range microwave.