Hood Begone! Welcoming a Built-In Microwave Instead

Is your outdated range hood clunking along, barely venting your stove's smoke and grease? Are you tired of its '90s look bringing down your kitchen's style? If so, joining the growing trend of replacing hoods with built-in microwaves may be right for you.

More and more homeowners are swapping out energy-hogging, air-blocking range hoods for space-saving microwaves with venting. This innovative appliance substitution kills two birds with one stone: you gain a convenient microwave oven while streamlining ventilation needs. But before you start demolishing your old hood, let's explore the ins and outs of this clever kitchen revamp.

Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks

At first glance, embedding your microwave in your former hood space boasts some tempting perks. You free up precious counter real estate and retain virtually the same ventilation capacity. The sleek, built-in look also brings a modern edge many dated hoods lack. However, the switch isn't without its downsides.

For one, today's full-size microwaves need more depth than standard cabinets allow. You'll likely need custom woodwork or install a smaller unit. Venting microwave ovens also requires running an electrical line behind the cabinet. And while ducting is on par with average hoods, installer expertise is a must to prevent leaks. Let's explore considerations around cabinet size, electrical needs, and venting ductwork when embarking on this kitchen upgrade.

Cabinet Size Limitations and Solutions

Standard microwaves measure roughly 19 inches deep--far deeper than the usual 14-inch cabinet. Before demoing your hood, measure your cabinet depth to see if a standard unit will squeeze in. If not, you have two options: install a smaller, shallower microwave or build out deeper cabinetry.

For a seamless built-in look, custom woodwork matching your cabinets allows fitting a full-size model. However, specialized carpentry bumps up costs. Alternatively, downsizing to a 15-inch-deep countertop or low-profile microwave costs less. Despite their petite size, today's models pack plenty of size and power for most users' needs.

Electrical Requirements and Considerations

While range hoods often plug into an existing outlet, microwaves need a dedicated circuit. Before installing your microwave oven, consult an electrician regarding your electrical panel's capacity plus the unit's voltage and amperage needs. While 120-volt circuits suit most household microwaves, larger models may require 240-volts. Plan for installing a new grounded outlet or hardwiring the appliance into the circuitry behind the oven.

To avoid potential shock or fire hazards, a licensed electrician must handle any electrical work. Consider conduit or wire molding to encase any surface-run wires leading to the new outlet inside adjoining cabinets. Planning ahead with your appliance retailer and electrician prevents any power-related pitfalls down the line.

Venting Needs and Ductwork Installation

Effective ventilation remains essential, whether you opt for a range hood or microwave oven. Check that your existing ductwork matches the factory-installed blower. While most over-the-range microwaves offer similar 600-CFM blowers, older or smaller ductwork must be updated to current codes. Ensure ducts leading outside meet fire safety standards as well.

During installation, properly measuring and cutting cabinetry openings to accommodate ductwork prevents airflow obstruction. While sidewall venting works for hood or microwave placement, vertical runs are optimal. Carefully sealing all duct joints also prevents leaks leading to poor ventilation and potential moisture damage. Consult a professional installer if you lack the skills or tools to handle the job well.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installation

Once you select the right built-in microwave model for your space and update electrical and ductwork accordingly, it's go time! To ensure safe, seamless installation:

Safely Remove the Existing Hood

Start by unplugging and turning off the circuit breaker connected to your outdated range hood. Protect floors and countertops before carefully unscrewing the unit from the wall or cabinetry. Use a pry bar to loosen sealed edges as needed. Carefully extract the hood vent from the ductwork behind, rerouting or capping off ducts as necessary.

Cut Out Cabinetry for Microwave Measures

Using the installation guide included with your new over-the-range microwave, measure and mark openings needed on adjoining cabinetry. Carefully cut out the required holes for proper unit ventilation, mounting, and conduit access if hardwiring your new appliance. Sand and smooth any rough edges prior to insertion.

Securely Mount the Microwave Oven

Following manufacturer guidelines, safely lift and position your microwave into the newly cutout space. Insert and tighten any provided screws into adjoining studs and wall framing for secure attachment. Connect ductwork using aluminum foil tape to seal joints. Connect any conduit wires to your dedicated outlet or circuitry as needed.

Test and Finish the Installation

Confirm all duct, electric and mounting connections are tight, leak-free and hazard-free prior to powering on your new unit. Test illumination, ventilation, heating, and interior rotation as needed per the product manual. Finally, use caulk and paintable silicone to seal any cracks or gaps left behind for a flawless built-in look.

Operating and Maintaining Your Built-In Microwave

Once your new combination microwave-range hood is installed, a few usage tips will keep it running cleanly and quietly for years of convenient cooking and venting:

Follow All Safety and Care Guidelines

Carefully read your owner's manual, paying special attention to any safety notices. Never run your microwave empty or with metal inside. Ensure you understand proper use for defrosting, reheating, or cooking to prevent potential electrical or fire issues down the line.

Clean Surfaces and Filters Regularly

To loosen baked-on splatter inside, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and vinegar and microwave for two minutes monthly. Then wipe down walls and tray with a soft cloth. Check and replace charcoal filters every 6-12 months to maintain airflow. Use glass cleaner and mild detergent on exterior surfaces as needed.

Periodically check mounting brackets, vent covers, light bulbs, turntables, and gaskets for wear, replacing damaged elements promptly. Tighten any loose screws or connections to prevent vibrations and noise issues when running the microwave or vent fan. Address minor repairs quickly to prevent bigger problems needing professional service down the line.

Swapping a dowdy range hood for a convenient, built-in microwave oven gives you the best of both worlds in one appliance. By carefully weighing cabinet size, electrical, and venting needs ahead of time, your installer can handle ducting and wiring safely. Follow usage guidelines foroptimized for both cooking and keeping kitchen air clean for years after your clever upgrade.