What does recirculating mean on a microwave?

The vent is on the top rear as with most over the range microwaves. You can vent it traditionally (ie to an outside vent) or recirculate it, which means just that–the air recirculates as opposed to being vented outside. There is an air filter used for this that comes with the unit.

How do I know if my microwave is recirculating?

Lower the front of the microwave and have a look over the top, under the cabinet. The unit will be supported at the lower rear by a bracket flange. Your microwave’s vent either exhausts upward or rearward, but from right at the top rear of the unit. You’ll be able to see whether there’s a duct opening at that location.

What is the difference between recirculating and convertible microwave?

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Convertible vents offer improved air quality by venting air outside of the kitchen. They can also convert into a ductless system that uses air filters. Recirculating microwave vents send your kitchen air through a series of aluminum, carbon, or charcoal filter vents.

Does a built in microwave need to be vented?

Yes, microwave ovens need ventilation. However, the venting needs differ according to the model and design. Proper clearance and ventilation are necessary for efficient operation and safety reasons. Adequate external ventilation is a must for microwave ovens without built-in ventilation systems.

How do recirculating microwave vents work?

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.

Do microwave exhaust fans work?

Vented microwave hoods are much more efficient at removing contaminants from your kitchen air. … Although a vented microwave is more efficient than a recirculating one, a professional-quality range hood cleans your air even more efficiently and it’s also more versatile and powerful.

Can I install an over the range microwave as a built in?

You can install an over-the-range microwave above a wall oven. … Over-the-range microwaves are not the same as built-in microwaves, so it’s important to double check the owner’s manual. There are three main types of microwaves: countertop microwaves, built-in microwaves, and over-the-range microwaves.

What is the difference between over the range and built in microwave?

Over-the-range models are just that: They’re installed over the range. The built-in category includes models designed only to be built in—surrounded by cabinetry or built into the wall. Microwave drawers fall into this group and can be placed under the countertop or below a wall oven.

How do you vent a built in microwave?

Place the countertop microwave in the built-in hole. Adjust it so each vent area has at least 1 inch of space in front of it. Do not push the microwave all the way against the back panel of the cabinet, and do not force the microwave into the cabinet space if the side panels do not provide enough space for the vents.

What kind of microwave can go in a cabinet?

Built-in microwaves can be installed into a wall or cabinet for convenient operation. With a similar capacity to other microwave styles, the built-in design has the advantages of saving counter space and being able to be installed away from the range, allowing multiple people more space to cook together.

Does over the range microwave need to be vented?

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.

How much space does a microwave vent need?

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.

Can you put a countertop microwave over the range?

1) Over the range This is a classic choice, especially in smaller kitchens. Tucked away neatly over your stove, the microwave does double duty as a hood vent.

How do you vent an over the range microwave?

Can a built-in microwave be used on a countertop?

Countertop Microwave vs Built-in Microwave The difference between a countertop microwave and built-in microwave is that the countertop microwave can be placed on top of the kitchen counter while the built-in microwave is installed into a wall or a corner of the cabinet.

Can I put a countertop microwave in a built-in microwave hole?

There are a variety of countertop microwaves available; however, only select models can be installed in a cabinet for a built-in look. To convert a countertop microwave for use in a built-in application, there must be an optional built-in trim kit available for use with the specific model.

How do you install an over-the-range microwave without a back wall?

When you don’t have a back wall or don’t want to install the microwave beneath a cabinet, add a removable shelf to the top of the countertop and place the microwave on it instead.

How much does it cost to install over-the-range microwave?

Over-the-range microwave installation costs $100 to $300 for a standard replacement. The average cost of built-in microwave installation is $220 to $580. A handyman or electrician charges $50 to $100 per hour for labor. A new microwave costs $100 to $600….Microwave installation cost.National average cost$150Average range$100 to $400