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April 12, 2023 5 min read
A microwave vent hood does double duty in your kitchen. It combines the functionality of a microwave with that of a ventilation system. These handy devices are popular in many homes because they offer several features. But is it the right ventilation choice for your home?
What exactly do microwave vent hoods do? Are they built to last? Will adding one to your kitchen make it more efficient? We’ll answer all these questions and more in this article. You’ll learn how microwave vent hoods work, as well as their pros and cons. By understanding what these appliances do, you’ll be able to decide if you need one in your kitchen.
A microwave vent hood is a two-in-one kitchen appliance that combines a microwave with a ventilation system. It is a microwave device that also functions as an air-cleaning system. It not only heats your food but also removes smoke, grease, and odors from the air. These units are often above the stove or cooktop area. They have an in-built exhaust fan that pulls in polluted air from the kitchen. The units then clean the air by passing it through a filter before releasing it back into the kitchen.
Microwave vent hoods are made to remove cooking odors, smoke, and moisture from your kitchen. They have several parts, including a microwave oven, ventilation system, fans, ductwork, and filters.
How It Works: The microwave oven is the cooking part of the unit, and it heats your food while the ventilation system runs. The fan pulls in air from the kitchen, along with any smoke, odors, or moisture. The air passes through filters that trap pollutants. Then, the clean air is sent outside through ductwork or recirculated back into the kitchen.
Over-the-range (OTR) microwave vent hoods are a great way to combine two important kitchen appliances in one. They work as both a microwave oven and a range hood. Installed above the cooktop or stove, they provide cooking and ventilation in one unit. OTR microwave vent hoods have ventilation settings, like exhaust, recirculation, and booster speeds.
These are integrated microwave vent hoods built into your kitchen cabinetry or wall. These units combine a microwave with a ventilation system. They’re a great choice for people who want a sleek, integrated kitchen design. You can install them in different places, like above a stove or cooktop, or even as a separate unit.
Countertop microwave vent hoods are made to sit on your countertop. These units combine a microwave with a ventilation system, giving you cooking and ventilation in one device. They are usually easy to install, with no ductwork or complicated setup. Countertop microwave vent hoods are often more affordable than built-in or over-the-range models. Plus, they can be moved easily, making them a good choice for renters or people who like to change their kitchen layout.
1. The convenience of using a microwave vent hood is one of the primary reasons for its popularity. They are designed to make cooking and ventilation easier and more efficient. You get to simplify meal prep and kitchen cleanliness.
2. Many microwave vent hoods are designed to be compact and space-efficient. They free up counter and cabinet space by eliminating the need for a range hood.
3. A microwave vent hood is a smart and versatile appliance to get in a kitchen. It cleans your air and brings in the added cooking features of a microwave. Besides ventilation, many models offer features like convection cooking, making them highly multifunctional.
4. Unlike traditional range hoods, microwave vent hoods are simpler to install. They often cut the need for complex ductwork and electrical wiring. Many models can be installed with minimal modifications, often without needing professional help.
5. Compared to range hoods, microwave vent hoods are generally more budget-friendly. Combining two appliances into one can reduce both purchase and installation costs.
1. Due to their compact size, they may not be as effective as traditional range hoods, especially for heavy cooking. This could result in less effective removal of smoke, steam, and odors. If ventilation is a top priority or you have a gas range, a traditional range hood may be a better choice.
2. These units can be noisier than their traditional counterparts, which may be disruptive. If you're noise-sensitive or prefer a quieter cooking environment, a microwave vent hood may not be the best fit.
3. They come with limited style options and might not fit all kitchen layouts, particularly in high-end kitchens. If you have a large cooktop or range, consider alternative options to the microwave vent hood.
4. The dual-function design could lead to more frequent breakdowns, complicating repairs. Dirt or debris from the microwave unit can affect the ventilation unit and reduce efficiency.
5. Repairs can be costly and complex due to the integrated microwave and ventilation systems. Purchasing parts from the manufacturer can be quite expensive. Additionally, their integrated installation often requires professional expertise, which is expensive.
A microwave vent hood is a great addition to any kitchen, but some may benefit more from its features. These units are perfect for small kitchens or limited space, offering a convenient all-in-one solution. They work well for light cooking tasks that produce little smoke or heat. They are great for people who rank easy-to-use appliances over powerful ventilation.
They’re also ideal for those looking for an energy-efficient appliance that uses less power. Renters will like that these units are portable and easy to install, making them easy to take along when moving. If you value the convenience of a combined microwave and ventilation system, then a microwave vent hood is a smart choice.
If any of these sound like you, consider getting a microwave vent hood to improve your kitchen!
These standard range hoods can be mounted above the stove and connected to ductwork to vent outside. They are more powerful and effective at removing smoke, steam, and odors from the kitchen. Some exquisite examples of ducted range hoods are available at Moderncopper.
These ventilation systems are installed in the kitchen and the house's exterior ductwork. They can be used with a range hood or as a standalone option to remove cooking fumes from the kitchen. Inline exhaust fans are more powerful than microwave vent hoods and can be installed in various configurations.
These range hoods use a filter to recirculate air back into the kitchen rather than vent outside. While they are less effective at removing smoke and odors than ducted range hoods, they are a good option. They are ideal for kitchens where ductwork is not possible. They are also perfect for homeowners who do not want to create a hole in their walls or roofs.
A microwave vent hood can be a great addition to your kitchen, offering convenience and better indoor air quality. When deciding if a microwave vent hood is right for you, note how often you cook and what kind of ventilation you need. If you like a space-saving design and easy cleaning, a microwave vent hood could be a good choice. However, if you need stronger ventilation or prefer a separate vent hood, you might want to look at other options. By weighing the pros and cons, you can determine if this appliance meets your kitchen needs.