Do under cabinet microwaves need a vent?

Do under cabinet microwaves need a vent?

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.

Can a microwave be mounted under a cabinet?

Countertop models can be tucked into a shelf or opening in the cabinetry for a built-in look. This allows you to move the microwave off the work surface. For safety, it’s best to find a location that offers landing space below. The more tightly the microwave fits into the space, the more streamlined it looks.

What is a ventless microwave?

A ductless recirculating vent pulls air through a filter and exhausts the air back into the kitchen. Some units are equipped with a charcoal filter that traps some particulate matter and odors, but most of the heat and moisture, along with some types of particles, stay in the house.

How much space do you need around a microwave for ventilation?

3″ of clearance on both sides and the top. 1″ clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3″ or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping.

How much clearance does a countertop microwave need?

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the microwave’s bottom should be no higher than 54 inches above the floor if it’s a countertop model. This translates to 18 inches of clearance from the typical cooktop height of 36 inches and the microwave.

How important is clearance above microwave?

Microwaves need adequate air clearance on each side, the rear and the top to function properly. This allows good circulation for the intake and discharge air vents.

How do you vent a microwave into a cabinet?

Open and remove your cabinet doors if there are any. Insert the microwave into the cavity. Using your tape measure, measure the necessary ventilation clearances around your microwave and make marks so you’ll know where to put the microwave again later. Take the microwave out of the cavity again.

Can all microwaves be vented outside?

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.