Over the Range Microwave with External Venting for Premium Ventilation

Over the range (OTR) microwaves offer convenient cooking space for many kitchens. With their placement above the stove, they maximize countertop area. While most recirculate air back into the kitchen, models with external venting provide superior ventilation. By ducting smoke, grease, and odors outside, externally vented OTR microwaves create a cleaner, more comfortable cooking environment.

We'll look at how external venting improves performance and reduces kitchen odors. We'll also cover important installation considerations and provide recommendations for the best externally vented OTR microwave models.

Benefits of Externally Vented OTR Microwaves

Externally vented over the range microwaves offer three key advantages over recirculating models:

• Increased ventilation capacity - External venting allows for more powerful exhaust measured in higher CFM ratings. This leads to better smoke and odor removal.
• More effective exhaust - Ducting grease, smoke, and odors outside prevents them from circulating back into the kitchen air.
• Superior odor removal - Cooking smells are expelled from the house entirely instead of being filtered and recirculated.

By ducting air directly outside, an externally vented OTR microwave provides optimal ventilation performance. The powerful exhaust clears away smoke, grease, and odors for a cleaner kitchen environment.

Direct Exhaust Outside for Better Performance

Externally vented OTR microwave models direct exhaust air outside through dedicated ductwork. This allows the microwave ventilation system to remove contaminants rather than simply filtering some particles as recirculating models do.

Without having to recirculate air, externally vented microwaves can achieve higher CFM ratings. CFM measures airflow - the higher the CFM, the more cooking exhaust the microwave can remove.

Typical over the range microwave CFM ratings are around 300-400 for recirculating and 600-1000+ for externally vented models. With more CFM power, external venting whisks away smoke, grease, and odors for a fresher kitchen.

Uses Dedicated Ductwork to Vent Outside

Proper installation is key to effective external venting. Externally vented OTR microwaves require ductwork running from the microwave to the outdoors. Rigid metal ductwork is recommended to provide the most direct exhaust route.

The ductwork connects to a termination point like a roof cap or wall vent hood outside. This allows grease, smoke, and other cooking contaminants to exit the house entirely.

In contrast, recirculating OTR microwaves lack dedicated venting ductwork. They filter grease and odors from the air before blowing the air back into the kitchen. While recirculating microwaves improve air quality somewhat, external venting removes contaminants more effectively.

Greater Control Over Kitchen Environment

Externally vented OTR microwaves give homeowners more control over their kitchen environment. Recirculating models only filter and recycle interior air. But with external venting, you can actively expel contaminants from the house.

This allows you to thoroughly clear away cooking grease, smoke, steam, and odors. Your kitchen stays cleaner for preparing food, entertaining guests, or just relaxing at home.

External venting also reduces moisture buildup in the kitchen by eliminating steam and humidity. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

Provides More Comfortable Cooking Conditions

The superior ventilation of an externally vented OTR microwave makes cooking more pleasant. Without odors and smoke lingering, the kitchen feels open and breathable.

Powerful exterior exhaust prevents a cramped, stuffy environment from developing during cooking. Family and guests will appreciate the clean, comfortable kitchen air.

External venting also allows better lighting by removing steam buildup on light fixtures. With reduced smoke and odors, exterior vented microwaves provide the ideal kitchen cooking experience.

Installation Considerations for Externally Vented OTR Microwaves

Properly installing an externally vented over the range microwave involves a few key factors:

Ducting Route and Termination Point

The ducting from the microwave must have an unobstructed path to the outdoors. This often involves routing through cabinets, walls, and potentially the roof. The termination point may be a roof cap, wall vent hood, or soffit vent.

Minimize turns and elbows in the ducting to maximize airflow. Also ensure the ducting has an upward slope so grease and moisture can drain outside easily.

Microwave Cutout Size

Externally vented OTR microwaves need specific cutout dimensions to accommodate the ducting. Generally cutouts are wider than recirculating models. Measure your desired microwave and cabinetry carefully.

Also account for proper mounting height and overhead cabinet clearances. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for accurate cutout sizing.

Venting Requirements

External venting must meet local building codes. These include allowable termination points, minimum duct sizing, and maximum distance limitations.

Work with a professional installer to ensure proper CFM level is achieved given the ducting route. Proper installation is key to reaping the benefits of external venting.

Microwave and Ventilation System Capacity

Select an OTR microwave with adequate CFM for your kitchen's size and cooking needs. More CFM allows for faster smoke and odor removal.

Also ensure the ducting, termination point, and other ventilation components can handle the CFM rating. A professional can assess your kitchen and install a system sized appropriately.

Home Layout and Design Accommodations

Consider how an externally vented OTR microwave will integrate into your home's layout. Ducting may require snaking through confined spaces like floor joists and wall cavities.

For kitchen remodeling projects, account for factors like cabinet configuration, countertop height, and wall reconstruction to accommodate new ductwork.

Proper installation is crucial for external venting to work effectively. Consult a professional to ensure your system is designed and installed correctly.

Top Externally Vented OTR Microwave Models

Many leading manufacturers offer externally vented over the range microwave models. Here are some top picks:

GE JVM6175EKES 30" Over the Range Microwave

• 1,000 CFM venting capacity
• 10 cooking power levels
• 300 cubic foot capacity
• LED cooktop lighting
• Steam cook setting

A powerful 1,000 CFM microwave with a sleek finish to match modern kitchens. GE's microwave has sensor cooking and a large 1.7 cubic foot capacity.

Zephyr ZEKM90HES 30" Stainless Steel Microwave

• 890 CFM blower
• 11 power levels
• LED lighting and night light
• Steam clean setting
• Smudge-proof stainless steel

This microwave from Zephyr boasts a space-saving low profile design yet still packs 890 CFM of venting power. The convenient night light provides soft illumination at night.

• 400 CFM venting
• 1000 watts cooking power
• 10 power levels
• Turntable on/off
• AccuBake cooking sensor