Microwaves work by using electromagnetic waves to excite the molecules in food and cause them to move and create heat. Microwaves start at the bottom of the range and work their way up, so they are most powerful at the bottom of the oven.
This is why many over-the-range microwaves have a lower power setting. While there may be more than one setting on your microwave, it will only use as much power as it needs for that type of cooking.
There are also ways to make your microwave more efficient by cleaning out any food particles that might be blocking the path for microwaving. How Low Can Over the Range Microwave Be?
Related Article: Why does microwaved food taste different?
What Is an Over-The-Range Microwave?
An over-the-range microwave is a type of mounted oven that has been installed on the walls. It looks similar to other wall mounted ovens, but it sits on top of your stove instead.
They are typically used in smaller kitchens where there isn’t room for a traditional oven and stove.
What Are the Benefits of an Over-The-Range Microwave?
Many people love the convenience of an over-the-range microwave. It saves a lot of space and you don’t need to worry about the appliance taking up counter or cupboard space.
It also does double duty as a vent for your exhaust fan, which can save you money on heating and cooling costs.
And if your kitchen has minimal cabinet space, this is really the only option for a microwave.
The benefits of an over-the-range microwave are more than enough to make it worth the investment.
The Pros of an Over the Range Microwave
As we’ve already discussed, an over-the-range (OTR) microwave is a great choice if you have a compact kitchen.
With this type of microwave, you can leave the stove completely clear, which means you have much more room to get things done in your kitchen. There are also a few additional advantages to installing an over the range microwave.
First, the controls for an over the range microwave are located up above the stove. This makes it much easier to change the settings on the microwave when you’re standing at the sink.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that you may lose a bit of counter space with an over the range microwave. This is especially true if you have a hummingbird-type microwave, which has a shorter oven.
The Cons of an Over the Range Microwave
There are plenty of benefits to installing an over the range microwave, but there are also a few potential cons you should be aware of too.
First, over the range microwaves tend to be a bit more expensive than their stand-alone counterparts. One other thing to keep in mind is that installing an over the range microwave requires some custom cabinetry.
You will need to be sure that the dimensions of your new microwave fit in the space where you want to install it.
If you don’t have a cabinet above your stove, you may need to do some structural work before installing an over the range microwave. This can be a time-consuming process that may not be worth the effort in the long run.
How to Choose an Over the Range Microwave
The first thing you’ll want to do when choosing an over the range microwave is decide whether you want a hummingbird-type microwave or a standard microwave.
There are pros and cons to both types of microwaves. A hummingbird-type microwave may give you a bit more space for your food, but it will also have a shorter cooking time.
On the other hand, a standard over the range microwave will give you more space below, but the door will swing out instead of up like on a hummingbird-style microwave.
That said, there are a few other things to keep in mind when choosing an over the range microwave.
First, you’ll want to decide between an electric and a gas powered oven. Second, you’ll want to make sure the microwave you choose is the right size.
How to Install an Over-the-Range Microwave
If you decide to install an over the range microwave, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide if you want to mount the microwave above the microwave or above the range.
The difference between these two is that the above the range mounting style will leave room for the exhaust system to run through your wall.
The above the microwave mounting means that the exhaust system will have to run through the microwave.
Technically, you can mount either style above the range, but it’s best to check your local fire code first. Next, you’ll want to decide where to place the microwave oven inside the cabinet.
You’ll also want to be sure to leave space for the microwave’s control panel.
What to look for when buying an over-the-range microwave
When you’re shopping for an over the range microwave, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure you’re buying a microwave that is the right size.
You’ll also want to choose an oven with a power level that will suit your needs. One thing to keep in mind is that over the range microwaves tend to be a bit more powerful than their stand-alone counterparts.
This is because they’re built to exhaust the steam from inside the oven through the roof, which means they have to be stronger.
Finally, you’ll want to make sure you buy a microwave with an interior light.
How much does an over the range microwave cost?
Over the range microwaves tend to be a bit more expensive than their stand-alone counterparts. This is because they require a bit more work to install.
That said, the price difference between models is not nearly as drastic as the difference between the types of microwaves. Typically, you can expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $400 to $500 for a basic over the range microwave.
For a mid-range model, you’re looking at around $600 to $800. A high-end model can cost upwards of $1,000.
What are the benefits of an over the range microwave?
As we’ve discussed, there are many benefits to installing an over the range microwave. First, over the range microwaves tend to exhaust the steam from inside the oven through the roof.
This means you don’t have to worry about the steam fogging up the glass in the cabinet below. Furthermore, installing an over the range microwave allows you to leave the stove completely clear.
You’ll have plenty of room to get things done in your kitchen, and you won’t have to worry about bumping into a stand-alone microwave.
Potential drawbacks to keep in mind when buying an OTR Microwave
There are a few drawbacks to installing an over the range microwave.
First, they can be a bit more expensive than their stand-alone counterparts. You’ll also need to change the exhaust pipe to run through the microwave, which could require some structural work.
If you don’t have the time or the money for more extensive renovations, you may want to consider installing a stand-alone microwave instead.
Benefits of an Over the Range Microwave
As we’ve discussed, there are plenty of benefits to installing an over the range microwave.
First, you can leave the stove completely clear. You can also expect your over the range microwave to be more powerful than a stand-alone model.
Additionally, installing an over the range microwave allows you to more easily change the filter on your microwave, which means cleaning it is a breeze.
Drawbacks of An Over the Range Microwave
There are a few drawbacks to installing an over the range microwave. First, they are a bit more expensive than their stand-alone counterparts.
You’ll also need to install some custom cabinetry and make sure there is enough space above the microwave to exhaust the steam through the roof.
That said, the advantages of an over the range microwave far outweigh the drawbacks.
With an over the range microwave, you can leave the stove completely clear and install a more powerful microwave while avoiding the hassle of cleaning around a stand-alone microwave.
FAQS
What is the Best Over the Range Microwave Oven?
An over the range microwave oven is a type of microwave that is built-in to a wall above your stovetop. These types of microwaves are often more expensive than standard microwaves, but they take up less kitchen space.
What is the Best Small Microwave?
A small microwave can be any size you need it to be. You can find small microwaves that are just big enough for a single serving of food.
Conclusion
Microwave ovens with over-the-range mounting are perfect for compact kitchens where every square inch of space is precious.
They’re also suitable for homes where the range must be kept clear at all times because of fire code restrictions. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons why you might want to install an over the range microwave, too.
Installing one in your kitchen offers numerous advantages. They tend to take up less space than a stand-alone model, and they give you much easier access when it comes time to clean them or change their filters.
Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons you should consider before buying an over-the-range model.
