Duct Installation Guidelines: All over-the-range microwaves can be vented to the outside using an equivalent total of 140 feet of rigid 3 1/4" x 10" rectangular or rigid 6" round ducting.
It is not a requirement that an OTR microwave should be vented outside. Some homeowners prefer it, but no harm can come from recirculating the air into your kitchen or elsewhere (provided you're not dealing with smoke or harmful fumes).
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.
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.
Microwaves are intended for use indoors. We do not recommend using a microwave with an extension cord, where it can be exposed to the elements, or outside near a water source (like a pool).
A well-designed microwave will need 3” of clearance at the top and the sides, with at least 1” at the rear. In other words, if you are asking 'does a microwave need space around it? ' the answer is yes. It ensures the right level of airflow and protects the appliance.
Since microwaves generate high amounts of heat, it's important to use them safely to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. If a microwave isn't properly vented, it can overheat or even fuse together parts of it, causing a potential fire and/or injury.
Your Over-The-Range microwave oven is set for recirculating vent by default but can also be vented through the roof or through the rear wall depending on the existing vent setup of your kitchen. Templates are included with your unit that will assist you in both exterior vents in setups.
Ventilation. Microwave ovens should be vented properly when placed inside a cabinet. You need to ensure that there is sufficient airflow around your microwave oven.
Over-the-Range Microwaves: Over-the-range microwaves are mounted above a range or cooktop. They typically have built-in exhaust fans and can be vented externally through a duct that runs through the wall or roof of the house.
The charcoal filter is only used when microwave is NOT vented externally.
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. Microwaves cannot be ducted into a common duct work.
If you want a microwave stored in a cabinet, it must be designed to function correctly in an enclosed space. Countertop microwaves aren't meant for that purpose. An over-the-range microwave is a good way to save space and have adequate ventilation.
Can You Use a Countertop Microwave as a Built-in? Yes, you can mount your countertop microwave on a shelf or in a cabinet for a built-in look that frees up counter space in your kitchen.
Built-in microwaves are designed to be installed into your kitchen cabinets or into a fixed wall to free up counter space and create an integrated look to your kitchen. KitchenAid® built-in microwaves give your kitchen a custom look with appliances, cabinets and other fixtures working together in an integrated design.
A recirculating venting microwave, or ductless range hood, is a built-in ventilation system that recycles air through the microwave vents. The recirculating ventilation pulls the air through charcoal filters or other types of filters.
Most microwaves are around 50cm wide, 30cm high and 40cm deep. They'll need about 10cm space around the sides for ventilation, and 20cm at the top where the vents are usually located.
You should generally account for 1” of ventilation space between the microwave and the wall behind it and at least 3” of space from the edge of the counter to the open microwave door to avoid tipping. Also, try to put at least two feet between the microwave and the range.
The answer is no. It is not safe to put a microwave plugged in in a cabinet. This is because a microwave runs on electricity, and enclosing it in a cabinet can create a fire hazard.
The microwaves will not penetrate the metal; they can, however, induce an electric current in the bowl which is likely to have no consequence unless the metal has jagged edges or points. Then "arcing" can occur and sparks will fly. If there is something combustible in the oven, a fire is possible.
A charcoal filter must be used if the over-the-range microwave oven is not vented to the outside. Charcoal filters are model specific. It is important to use the correct charcoal filter for your microwave model when replacing the filter.
Most over-the-range microwaves have a grease filter, as well as a charcoal filter that helps reduce odors—but in order to do its job, it needs to be changed on a regular basis.
The charcoal filter is usually found near the top of the microwave behind a vent grill but use your owner's manual to confirm the location. The grease filter is located underneath the microwave, facing toward the stovetop.