Ever stood in your kitchen, breathing in the delicious aroma of dinner, only to have it linger in the air long after the meal is done? Or perhaps you’ve battled steamy windows and greasy cabinets after a cooking session. You’re not alone! Many home cooks face the challenge of keeping their kitchens fresh and clean, especially when it comes to managing cooking fumes.
Choosing an over-the-range microwave with an external vent can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many features to consider, and figuring out what truly matters for your home can be overwhelming. You want a microwave that not only heats your food perfectly but also effectively clears the air, making your kitchen a more pleasant place to be.
This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes an over-the-range microwave with an external vent a game-changer for your kitchen. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key features to look for, why they are important, and how to pick the best model for your needs. Get ready to transform your cooking experience!
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With External Vent Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With External Vent Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 9.0/10
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking is a sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen. Its large capacity and 1000-watt output make it a versatile tool for all your cooking needs. The stainless steel finish adds a modern touch, while the built-in vent and light system enhance your cooking experience.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes and meals.
- 1000 watts of power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Ten cooking levels and six quick menus offer great flexibility.
- Speedy cooking options for busy moments are a lifesaver.
- Multi-stage cooking lets you set complex cooking cycles easily.
- The 300 CFM vent fan effectively removes smoke and smells.
- The bright cooking light illuminates your stovetop.
- The 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit technical.
- The control panel could be more intuitive for first-time users.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen. It combines convenience, power, and thoughtful features to make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
2. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle. This package gives you a powerful microwave and extra peace of mind. It’s designed for easy cooking and looks great above your stove. Plus, you get a special protection plan to keep it running smoothly.
What We Like:
- Extended Protection: You get a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack on top of the regular warranty. This means you’re covered for a longer time.
- Convenience Features: This microwave makes cooking simple. It has easy-to-use controls for all your needs.
- Included Filter: The bundle comes with a charcoal filter replacement. This helps keep your kitchen air fresh.
- Sleek Design: The stainless steel finish looks modern and will fit well in most kitchens.
- Good Capacity: With 1.6 cu. ft. of space, you can heat up or cook a good amount of food.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Dimensions: While dimensions are listed, understanding how they fit in your specific kitchen space is important before purchase.
This bundle offers a great combination of a reliable microwave and excellent long-term protection. It’s a smart choice for any kitchen.
3. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This sleek stainless steel microwave is designed to make cooking and cleaning a breeze. It boasts a generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for families. Plus, it comes bundled with a premium 2-year extended protection plan, giving you extra peace of mind. This bundle ensures you have everything you need to get started, including a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity handles large dishes easily.
- Special melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and more.
- Steam clean interior makes cleanup quick and simple.
- Comes with a 2-year extended protection plan from CPS, in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty, for outstanding coverage.
- It’s a GE USA authorized product, ensuring quality and reliability.
- The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (16 5/16 H x 29 7/8 W x 15 9/16 D) might be large for some smaller kitchens.
- Installation over the range requires specific mounting and ventilation knowledge.
This GE microwave oven offers great convenience and value. The extended protection plan adds significant long-term security to your purchase.
4. 30″ Over the Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the 30″ ThermoMate Over the Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel appliance boasts a generous 1.9 cubic feet of space, perfect for busy families. It offers powerful cooking with 1000 watts and 11 adjustable power levels, ensuring your meals are heated just right. Plus, the built-in ventilation system keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1000-watt cooking with 11 different power levels gives you control.
- The large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity easily fits big meals and multiple dishes.
- One-touch cooking buttons and 9 auto-cook programs make meal prep simple.
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect results.
- The 400 CFM ventilation fan effectively removes smoke and odors.
- Bright LED lighting illuminates your stovetop for safe cooking.
- A removable rack expands your cooking options.
- The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures even heating.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions are listed as slightly larger than the external width, which could be confusing.
- The “snack menu” auto-cook option is a bit vague.
This ThermoMate microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both style and functionality. It makes cooking and ventilation a breeze.
5. GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM6175SKSS 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven. This stainless steel beauty is more than just a microwave; it’s a smart cooking companion. It comes with a fantastic bundle, including a premium 2-year extended protection plan on top of the manufacturer’s warranty, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.7 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- 1000 watts of power heats food quickly and evenly.
- Smart sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power for perfect results.
- Weight and time defrost options make meal prep a breeze.
- The “Add 30 seconds” button is super convenient for extra cooking time.
- A powerful two-speed, 300-CFM venting system keeps your kitchen fresh.
- You can turn the turntable on or off to suit your cooking needs.
- This bundle includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit.
- You get a full manufacturer’s protection plan PLUS a 2-year extended CPS protection plan.
- GE USA authorized ensures you’re getting a genuine product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation might require professional help for some users.
- While powerful, some may prefer even more wattage for faster cooking.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of features and protection for your kitchen. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking for convenience and reliability.
Over The Range Microwave With External Vent: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
An over-the-range microwave with an external vent is a smart addition to any kitchen. It saves counter space and gets rid of cooking smells and smoke. This guide helps you pick the best one for your home.
Why Choose an Over-The-Range Microwave with External Vent?
These microwaves do two jobs. They cook your food quickly and efficiently. They also act as a powerful vent hood. This means no more lingering smells of fried onions or bacon. Fresh air stays in your kitchen. It’s a win-win for cooking and comfort.
Key Features to Look For
1. Venting Power (CFM)
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. This number tells you how much air the vent can move. For busy kitchens, a higher CFM is better. Look for at least 300 CFM. This will keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
2. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space above your stove. Make sure the microwave fits well. Capacity is measured in cubic feet. A larger family might need a bigger microwave. Think about what you cook most often.
3. Cooking Power (Wattage)
Wattage shows how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 900 and 1200 watts. More watts are generally better for quick meals.
4. Sensor Cooking
Sensor cooking is a smart feature. It detects steam and moisture. Then, it adjusts cooking time and power. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking your food. It makes cooking much easier.
5. Lighting and Fan Speeds
Good under-cabinet lighting is helpful. It brightens your stovetop. Multiple fan speeds let you choose how much air to pull. A quiet fan is also a plus.
Important Materials
Stainless Steel
Many over-the-range microwaves have stainless steel exteriors. This material is durable. It resists fingerprints and smudges. It also looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
Plastic
Some internal parts and control panels use high-quality plastic. This keeps the microwave lighter. It also helps keep costs down. Look for sturdy, well-made plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. Doors should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often offer better reliability. They also have good customer service.
- Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer stands by their product.
Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy Materials: Thin metal or cheap plastic can make a microwave feel less durable.
- Poor Venting: A vent that doesn’t pull enough air makes the whole system less effective.
- Short Warranty: A short warranty might mean the product isn’t built to last.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an over-the-range microwave is simple. You can reheat leftovers quickly. You can defrost frozen foods. Many have special settings for popcorn or vegetables. The external vent is great for all types of cooking. It removes smoke from searing steaks. It clears steam from boiling pasta. It handles strong smells from stir-fries. It makes your kitchen a more pleasant place to be.
Installation
Installation can be tricky. It often involves mounting the microwave to the wall. You also need to connect the external vent. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, hire a professional. This ensures the microwave is installed safely and correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of an external vent on a microwave?
A: The main purpose is to remove cooking smoke, steam, and odors from your kitchen and send them outside your home.
Q: How do I know if I need an external vent?
A: If you cook foods that create a lot of smoke or strong smells, or if you want to keep your kitchen air fresh, an external vent is a good idea.
Q: What does CFM mean for a microwave vent?
A: CFM means Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the vent fan can move each minute. A higher CFM means stronger ventilation.
Q: What is a good CFM number for an over-the-range microwave vent?
A: A good CFM number is usually 300 or higher for effective ventilation in most kitchens.
Q: Can I install an over-the-range microwave myself?
A: Installation can be complex. It often requires mounting to the wall and connecting to your home’s ductwork. If you’re not experienced, it’s best to hire a professional.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves harder to clean?
A: Stainless steel can resist fingerprints well. However, it still needs regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
Q: What is sensor cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect steam and automatically adjust the cooking time and power for best results.
Q: How do I measure for an over-the-range microwave?
A: Measure the width of the space above your stove. Also, measure the height between the stovetop and the bottom of your cabinets.
Q: What’s the difference between a recirculating and externally venting microwave?
A: A recirculating microwave filters air and sends it back into the kitchen. An externally venting microwave pushes air outside your home through ductwork.
Q: How long do over-the-range microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care and use, most over-the-range microwaves can last between 7 to 15 years.
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!