Ever feel like your kitchen is a little… stuffy after you cook? That lingering smell of last night’s stir-fry or the haze of frying bacon can really take over. It’s a common kitchen problem, and finding a way to keep your air fresh is super important.
Choosing an over-the-range microwave with an exhaust fan might seem like a simple task, but it’s actually trickier than you think! There are so many different brands, sizes, and features to consider. You want a microwave that heats your food well, and an exhaust fan that actually gets rid of smoke and smells. It’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out which one is the best fit for your kitchen and your cooking habits.
But don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important things to consider, from how powerful the fan needs to be to what kind of filters are best. Get ready to find an over-the-range microwave that makes your kitchen a cleaner and more pleasant place to be.
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers powerful cooking and convenient features, making meal prep a breeze. Its spacious interior and user-friendly controls simplify everyday tasks.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 1.7 cubic feet interior easily fits large dishes and the 12.4-inch turntable handles family-sized meals.
- 1000 Watts of Power: Cook food quickly and efficiently with 10 different power levels.
- One-Touch Auto Cooking: Six convenient pre-set menus make cooking Popcorn, Beverages, and Reheating leftovers super simple.
- Speedy Cooking: Get instant results with 1-3 minute cook times at full power. Just press 1, 2, or 3!
- Multi-stage Cooking: Save time by setting two cooking power levels and times in one go. Your food cooks perfectly without you watching it.
- Powerful Vent Fan: The 300 CFM fan sucks up smoke and smells. It has two speeds to tackle any cooking mess.
- Bright Cooking Light: An integrated light shines down on your stovetop, so you can see what you’re cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stainless steel finish may show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent wiping.
- While it offers multi-stage cooking, some users might prefer more advanced programming options.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and practical performance. It’s a solid choice for busy households.
2. GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
The GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in Black is a smart addition to any kitchen. This bundle comes with a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s designed to make cooking and reheating quick and easy, while also keeping your kitchen air fresh.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Powerful 1000 Watts cooks food quickly and evenly.
- The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors.
- Turntable On/Off feature gives you control over how your food heats.
- Auto and time defrost options make thawing food simple.
- Convenience cooking controls are easy to understand and use.
- Includes a charcoal filter for odor removal, and it’s easy to replace.
- This bundle includes a 2-year extended service protection plan on top of the manufacturer’s warranty, offering excellent value and security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The behind-the-door grille for the charcoal filter might require a bit of careful maneuvering during replacement.
This GE microwave oven bundle offers a great combination of performance and protection. It’s a reliable choice for everyday kitchen needs.
3. COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan
Rating: 9.3/10
The COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for those looking to save counter space. This black and stainless steel appliance offers powerful cooking and efficient ventilation all in one unit. Its 1.34 cubic feet capacity is generous, and the 1000 watts of power ensure your meals are cooked quickly and evenly. Plus, it’s RV friendly, making it a versatile choice for adventurers.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 10 power levels gives you great control.
- The integrated range hood effectively removes smoke, odors, and moisture from your kitchen.
- Convenient touch presets make tasks like melting, softening, and defrosting super easy.
- Sensor reheat and cook modes automatically detect when your food is perfectly done.
- The 24-inch size fits nicely over most standard ranges.
- It’s RV friendly, which is a unique and useful feature.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the capacity is good, some might prefer an even larger microwave for bigger meals.
- The 17-inch height might be a bit tall for some users, depending on their range height.
This COSMO microwave is a smart, space-saving solution that combines cooking power with excellent ventilation. It’s a great choice for upgrading your kitchen’s functionality and style.
4. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for cooking family meals or reheating leftovers. It’s designed to make your cooking easier with smart sensor cooking and a special melt feature for delicate ingredients like chocolate and butter. Plus, cleaning is a breeze thanks to its easy-clean interior and steam clean option. This bundle also comes with a premium 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind on top of the manufacturer’s warranty.
What We Like:
- Large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles big meals.
- Melt feature makes cooking with chocolate and butter simple.
- Steam clean interior keeps the microwave spotless.
- Includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit for your kitchen.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- It’s an authorized GE USA product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might require careful measuring for some kitchens.
- Additional accessories beyond the filter kit are not included.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens, offering convenience and a great warranty package.
5. 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the ThermoMate 30″ Over the Range Microwave. This spacious 1.9 cu. ft. microwave fits perfectly over your stove, offering powerful cooking and convenient features to make meal prep a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel design adds a modern touch to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking and 11 power levels give you lots of control.
- The 1.9 cu. ft. capacity is large enough to cook for your whole family.
- One-touch cooking and 9 auto-cook programs make it super easy to prepare common foods.
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect results.
- The 400 CFM ventilation system clears smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Bright LED lighting illuminates your stovetop, making cooking safer and easier.
- The removable glass turntable ensures even heating of your food.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions might be a bit tight for very large dishes.
- While the ventilation is good, some users might prefer even stronger airflow for very smoky cooking.
This ThermoMate microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, blending style with serious functionality. It’s a smart choice for busy households looking for convenience and power.
Your Guide to Over-the-Range Microwaves with Exhaust Fans
An over-the-range microwave with an exhaust fan is a kitchen superhero. It cooks your food and cleans your air. This guide helps you pick the best one for your home.
Why Choose an Over-the-Range Microwave?
These appliances save space. They sit above your stove. This frees up counter space. The exhaust fan pulls smoke and smells from your cooking. It keeps your kitchen fresh.
Key Features to Look For
1. Microwaving Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, 1000 watts is a good choice. If you cook a lot, aim higher.
2. Exhaust Fan Strength (CFM)
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan moves. For light cooking, 100-200 CFM is fine. For heavy frying or stir-frying, look for 300 CFM or more. Some fans have multiple speeds.
3. Venting Options
Some microwaves vent outside. This is called external venting. It’s the most effective. Others recirculate air through a filter. This is called ductless or recirculating. External venting is better for smoke and smells.
4. Size and Capacity
Measure the space above your stove. Microwaves come in different widths, usually 30 inches. The interior capacity is measured in cubic feet. A larger family might need a bigger microwave. Think about what you cook. Do you heat large dishes? A bigger inside is better.
5. Cooking Presets and Features
Many microwaves have special buttons. These include popcorn, potato, and defrost. Some have sensor cooking. This adjusts cooking time automatically. Look for features that match how you cook.
6. Lighting
A good light under the microwave helps you see while you cook on the stove. Some lights are LED. These are bright and save energy.
Important Materials
Most over-the-range microwaves have a stainless steel exterior. This looks nice and is easy to clean. Inside, you’ll find a glass turntable. Some models have a ceramic enamel interior. This is also easy to wipe down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Strong Fan Motors: A powerful motor means a better exhaust fan.
- Durable Construction: Sturdy materials make the microwave last longer.
- Intuitive Controls: Easy-to-use buttons make cooking simple.
- Good Lighting: Bright under-cabinet lights are very helpful.
Quality Reducers:
- Weak Fan: A weak fan won’t clear smoke or smells well.
- Flimsy Build: A microwave that feels cheap might not last.
- Confusing Controls: Too many buttons or unclear labels can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Cooking:
You can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or make popcorn. The exhaust fan keeps your kitchen smelling good while you do it.
Stovetop Cooking Helper:
The microwave’s light shines on your cooktop. The fan removes steam and smoke from pots and pans. This makes cooking more pleasant.
Space Saver:
For small kitchens, this appliance is a game-changer. It combines two needs into one unit.
Busy Families:
Quick meals are easy. Sensor cooking helps ensure food is cooked just right. The fan helps with cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important feature depends on your needs. For cooking power, look at wattage. For air quality, focus on CFM and venting. For space saving, size is key.
Q: Do I need external venting?
A: External venting is best. It removes smoke and smells from your home. If you can’t vent outside, a recirculating model with good filters can work, but it won’t be as effective.
Q: How do I clean the exhaust filter?
A: Most filters are washable. Check your manual. Some are metal and can go in the dishwasher. Others are charcoal and need replacing.
Q: Are over-the-range microwaves noisy?
A: Fan noise varies. Higher CFM fans can be louder. Look for reviews that mention noise levels if this is a concern.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove?
A: Most microwaves are 16-17 inches tall. Measure the space carefully. Also, check the width and depth.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses steam to figure out when food is done. It adjusts the cooking time and power. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
Q: Can I use this microwave to replace my range hood?
A: Yes, that’s its main purpose! It combines the microwave and range hood functions.
Q: How often should I replace the charcoal filter in a ductless model?
A: This depends on how often you use the fan. Typically, every 3-6 months. Your manual will have specific advice.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel can show fingerprints. However, most are treated to resist them. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth usually does the trick.
Q: What is the average lifespan of an over-the-range microwave?
A: With good care, an over-the-range microwave can last 7-10 years or more.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!