Over the Range Microwave Ovens with Convection Cooking Features

Over-the-range (OTR) microwave ovens are a popular choice for many homes and kitchens. An OTR microwave combines the functionality of a traditional microwave oven with a range hood, making it a convenient two-in-one appliance. OTR microwaves with convection cooking capabilities take this a step further by also allowing for radiant heat cooking similar to a traditional oven.

Let's get cooking!

How OTR Microwave Convection Ovens Work

OTR microwave convection ovens contain both microwave technology for quick cooking and heating tasks, as well as convection heating elements and a fan to circulate hot air and promote even cooking and browning. This dual cooking system allows the flexibility to microwave, convection cook, or use both cooking methods.

Microwave Cooking

During microwave cooking, microwaves generated by the magnetron penetrate food, causing polarized molecules like water to rotate rapidly and generate friction. This heats the food from the inside out. Microwaves allow for fast, convenient cooking and reheating without having to preheat an oven.

Convection Cooking

For convection cooking and baking modes, one or more heating elements heat the air inside the oven while a fan circulates it to promote even browning and crisping as it would in a traditional oven. The convection fan allows for consistent temperatures throughout the cavity so foods cook more evenly.

Combination Cooking

By leveraging both microwave energy and convection heating, OTR microwave convection ovens can combine these cooking technologies to roast meats, bake casseroles, and more. This unique combo cooking seals in moisture while producing golden, crisp exteriors.

Benefits of OTR Microwave Convection Ovens

Installing an over-the-range microwave convection oven brings several advantages over standalone microwave and oven units:

• All-in-one appliance saves counter and floor space
• Ventilation exhausts cooking fumes and grease
• Faster convection and microwave cooking
• Crisp and golden finishes with convection modes
• Consistency with sensors to automatically adjust time/power
• Flexibility to microwave, convection cook, or use both
• Sleek, built-in style for a tidy, uniform kitchen design

Key Features to Look for

When selecting an over-the-range convection microwave , keep these top features in mind:

Size and Dimensions

Consider oven capacity and turntable diameter suited for your cooking needs, as well as the unit's measurements to ensure a proper built-in fit.

Power Levels

Higher wattage ensures efficient microwave cooking and fast convection preheating. Look for at least 1,000 watts.

Smart Sensors and Controls

Preset cook settings, touchpads over dials, sensor cooking tailored to food type, and programmable recipes simplify cooking tasks.

Ventilation and Exhaust

High powered fan, boost modes to clear smoke and odors, and hood lighting provide ventilation.

Additional Functions

Added convection, broil, proofing, warming, pizza, potato and popcorn modes expand your menu possibilities.

Top Brands and Models

We compared ratings and reviews for the top over-the-range convection microwave brands on the market. Here are our top recommendations:

GE JVM6175BKTS 30" Over-the-Range Microwave Oven

This 1.7 cubic foot GE over-the-range microwave is a top choice for reliable performance and smart sensor cooking tailored for popcorn, reheating, beverages and popular foods. Convection cooking, a 300 CFM venting system, 10 power levels and microwave, convection or combination modes make meal prep easy.

Samsung ME21M706BAG 2.1 cu. ft. Over The Range Microwave

This 2.1 cubic foot oven with a three-stage venting system removes smoke, grease, odor efficiently while providing over 1,000-watts of microwave power on 10 levels. With convection cooking and a deodorizing filter, it simplifies everything from crisping pizza to baking cakes.

Whirlpool WMH31017HS 1.7 cu. ft. Microwave Hood Combination with Electronic Touch Controls

This affordable Whirlpool over-the-range microwave has 1,000 watts to cook and reheat food quickly with convection bake and crisp modes for added versatility. Its roomy 1.7 cubic foot capacity fits large casserole dishes.

Installation Tips and Guidance

Properly installing an over-the-range microwave oven requires adequate measurements, electrical setup, ducting, and cabinet modifications. Here are some best practices to follow:

Measure Carefully

Check ceiling height, cabinet dimensions, and potential obstructions overhead to ensure a good fit. The oven must have at least 12 inches of clearance below for ventilation.

Prepare Electrical and Ventilation

Have a 120V grounded outlet ready, and set up ductwork between oven and exterior roof exhaust cap. Use heavy-duty metal vent ducting.

Adjust Cabinetry

Remove existing hood or cabinetry and relocate gas or electric range hookups as needed to accommodate new oven.

Secure Installation

Reinforce cabinet bottom for weight support. Fasten securely into upper cabinet cutout using provided brackets and screws after electrical and vent connection.

Operating and Cooking Tips

Follow these recommendations for the best performance from your over-the-range convection microwave:

Read the Manual

Review model-specific settings, operation advice, troubleshooting, care and maintenance steps.

Vent Properly

Always turn on vent fan to minimum speed when cooking to direct steam, smoke and odors outside.

Use Cookware Safely

Metal cookware should only be used in convection modes, not microwave-only. Ensure pans have enough room under heating elements.

Adjust Settings Accordingly

Reduce cook times and temperatures when switching from traditional oven recipes. Add extra cook time for frozen foods.

Use Probe Safely

If available, insert probe horizontally into food's center, and keep cord outside of oven during convection cooking to prevent damage.

Clean Regularly

Frequently wipe out grease and food splatters. Replace charcoal odor filters every 6-12 months as needed.

Troubleshooting Common OTR Microwave Problems

While over-the-range convection microwaves are typically reliable, issues can occasionally arise. Here's how to troubleshoot common problems:

Microwave Isn't Heating

Check that timer is set, door is closed properly, and controls correctly entered. Ensure nothing is caught in door. Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker if needed.

Light Isn't Working

Replace light bulb if burned out. Verify light wiring harness is connected. Check if light setting is selected.

Noisy Operation

Ensure chassis is level, fan blade spins freely, cabinet is reinforced, and mounting hardware is tightened securely without gaps.

Problem with Ventilation

Confirm vent fan functions. Remove obstructions from ductwork. Clean filters and grease buildup from fan blades. Ensure adequate ducting to exterior.

OTR Microwave Convection Oven Recipes

An over-the-range convection microwave oven allows for browning and crisping typically reserved for conventional ovens. Here are recipe ideas to try out:

Baked Goods

• Cakes
• Cookies
• Biscuits
• Muffins

Savory Dishes

• Roast chicken or pork
• Baked pasta dishes
• Stuffed peppers
• Mini potato skins

Appetizers

• Pizza
• Nachos
• Mozzarella sticks
• Egg rolls

Cost Comparisons

We break down costs you can expect from installing an over-the-range convection microwave oven:

Purchase Price

Budget models start around $250. Quality convection microwaves run $400-700 depending on size, design and extra functions.

Installation Fees

Expect to pay $200-300 for professional measurement, electrical work, cabinet modifications, ducting, mounting and testing.

Long Term Costs and Savings

Since over-the-range ovens eliminate the need for separate microwave and range units, they can provide cost efficiency long term. Typical electricity usage is around $35 annually.

Our Top Pick

After extensive product research and comparisons, we nominate the GE JVM6175BKTS as the best over-the-range convection microwave oven for most kitchens. With 1,100-watts of cooking power, a 1.7 cubic foot capacity, LED cooktop lighting, smart sensor cooking controls and convection capabilities, it simplifies and improves meal prep for the average household.

From reheating leftovers to defrosting foods, microwaving snacks to baking cookies, the GE JVM6175BKTS can tackle nearly any cooking task while saving valuable counter space. Its black stainless steel finish and fingerprint resistant coating keeps it looking sleek and modern over years of use. With a 4.5/5-star rating from over 380 reviews, most users love this microwave.

Over-the-range microwave convection ovens bring speed, versatility and convenience to kitchens, combining microwave heating and convection radiant cooking technologies along with ventilation and range hood features all in one appliance. Models from leading brands like GE offer the perfect marriage of functionality and sleek, built-in style.

When selecting your ideal over-the-range convection microwave, be sure to measure carefully and consider sizing needs, cooking power, smart controls and extra modes that suit your lifestyle. Follow installation, venting, safe cookware practices and operating tips provided here for the best experience and results. Your next oven-baked casserole or batch of crispy wings are just a few settings away!