Ever felt like your kitchen is missing a key player? You know, the one that cooks your food, clears the air, and brightens your workspace all at once? That’s where the mighty Over The Range Microwave with an Exhaust Fan and Light comes in, a true kitchen superhero!
But let’s be honest, picking the perfect one can feel like a mission. So many brands, so many features, and what does “CFM” even mean? It’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a microwave that doesn’t quite meet your needs. You want one that actually sucks up smoke, not just blows it around, and a light that lets you see your delicious creations!
That’s why we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll understand the important things to look for. We’ll break down the confusing jargon and guide you towards finding a microwave that makes your cooking life easier and your kitchen a happier place.
Ready to turn your kitchen chaos into culinary calm? Let’s dive into what makes an Over The Range Microwave with an Exhaust Fan and Light the ultimate kitchen upgrade.
Our Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan And Light Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over The Range Microwave With Exhaust Fan And Light Detailed Reviews
1. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS, a spacious 1.9 cu. ft. over-the-range microwave. This stainless steel beauty makes cooking and cleaning a breeze with its smart sensor cooking and easy-clean interior. Plus, this bundle comes with a fantastic protection plan for extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- Special melt feature handles delicate tasks like melting butter or chocolate perfectly.
- Steam clean interior makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Includes a recirculating charcoal filter kit for fresh air.
- You get a full manufacturer’s warranty PLUS an additional 2-year extended protection plan, making it a total of 4 years of coverage!
- GE is a trusted brand known for quality appliances.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- While the melt feature is great, some users might wish for more specialized cooking presets.
This GE microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens, offering convenience and excellent protection. It’s a bundle that truly delivers on both performance and value.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven. This microwave is designed for convenience and power, making meal prep a breeze. With 1000 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.9 cubic feet of capacity, it handles everything from quick snacks to family dinners. Its sleek design fits perfectly over your stove, adding both style and function to your cooking space.
What We Like:
- It has 1000 watts, so it heats food fast.
- The 1.9 cubic feet size is large enough for big dishes.
- Auto cooking menus make it easy to prepare popcorn, potatoes, and more.
- The 400 CFM vent fan keeps your kitchen air fresh.
- Bright LED lights illuminate your cooktop below.
- You can turn the turntable on or off, which is great for large platters.
- It has a child lock to keep little hands safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 10 power settings a bit overwhelming at first.
- The specific dimensions might require careful measurement for installation.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a powerful and versatile addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cooking and keeps your kitchen clean and well-lit.
3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.3/10
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a powerful and convenient over-the-range microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel design fits nicely in any kitchen. This microwave is packed with features to help you cook delicious meals quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- It has 18 auto-cook menus. You can easily make popcorn, pizza, or even defrost food. This makes cooking many different things simple and fast.
- The microwave has a large 1.7 cubic foot capacity. It fits big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- You can control the power with 10 different levels. This lets you heat your food just right.
- The 300 CFM ventilation system is strong. It clears smoke and smells from your kitchen quickly. You can even adjust the fan speed.
- A bright light shines on your stovetop. This helps you see clearly when you’re cooking below.
- The smart touch panel is easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the auto-cook menus are great, some users might want even more specialized options.
- The fan, while powerful, can be a bit loud on its highest setting for some people.
Overall, the Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering great performance and ease of use.
4. Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The Farberware Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W of power make it a workhorse for all your cooking needs. This microwave is designed to save space with its over-the-range installation, freeing up valuable counter space. It boasts a user-friendly LED display and a powerful vent fan to keep your kitchen air clean.
What We Like:
- High-Powered Cooking: The 1000W output heats food quickly and evenly, perfect for busy households.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cu. ft. size easily fits larger dishes and multiple items.
- Versatile Cooking Options: It offers special programs for vegetables, snacks, potatoes, and even auto cook features for convenience.
- Smart Defrosting: Time and weight defrost settings take the guesswork out of thawing food.
- Quick Cooking Features: The +30 seconds button and melt/soften options are super handy for everyday tasks.
- Child Safety Lock: This feature provides peace of mind for families with young children.
- Helpful Extras: The LED timer, vent fan, and stovetop light add great functionality.
- Adjustable Volume: You can control the alert sounds to your preference.
- Space-Saving Design: Installing it above your stove is a smart way to maximize kitchen space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, some users might find the maximum vent fan speed a bit loud.
- The stainless steel finish, while attractive, can show fingerprints easily and requires regular cleaning.
Overall, this Farberware microwave is a powerful and space-efficient appliance that simplifies cooking and enhances kitchen functionality.
5. GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Black Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in sleek black. This bundle comes with an amazing 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind on top of the full manufacturer warranty. It’s built to make cooking and meal prep a breeze, offering plenty of space and powerful performance for all your needs.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized meals.
- Powerful 1000 watts cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively clears smoke and odors from your kitchen.
- Turntable On/Off option gives you control over how your food cooks.
- Auto and time defrost make preparing frozen foods simple.
- Convenience cooking controls are easy to use for quick meal adjustments.
- Includes a 2-year extended protection plan for added security.
- Comes with a charcoal filter for odor control and easy replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- The charcoal filter needs periodic replacement, which is an ongoing cost.
- While efficient, the venting system might not be powerful enough for very heavy cooking.
This GE microwave oven bundle is a smart choice for busy households. It combines powerful cooking features with excellent protection, ensuring you get great value and long-lasting performance.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: Over-the-Range Microwaves with Exhaust Fans and Lights
Upgrade your kitchen with a smart appliance that does more than just heat food. An over-the-range (OTR) microwave with a built-in exhaust fan and light is a game-changer. It saves counter space and helps keep your kitchen fresh and well-lit. Let’s dive into what makes a great OTR microwave.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an OTR microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Microwave Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance.
- Exhaust Fan Power (CFM): CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It tells you how much air the fan can move. More CFM means it can clear smoke and smells faster. Aim for at least 300 CFM.
- Ventilation Type: Some microwaves vent outwards, while others recirculate air with a filter. Make sure the type matches your kitchen setup.
- Cooking Presets: Many OTR microwaves come with buttons for popcorn, potatoes, or defrosting. These make cooking easier.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures your food cooks evenly.
- Interior Size: Check if the interior is big enough for your common dishes and containers.
- Lighting: A good under-hood light helps you see what you’re cooking on the stovetop.
- Control Panel: Some have simple button controls, while others have sleek touch screens. Choose what you find easiest to use.
Important Materials
The materials used in an OTR microwave affect its look, durability, and how easy it is to clean.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It looks modern and is quite strong. It can resist rust and is easy to wipe down.
- Painted Steel: This is a more budget-friendly option. It comes in various colors, but it can scratch or chip over time.
- Glass Turntable: The turntable inside is usually made of glass. It’s easy to clean and can be removed for washing.
- Plastic Interior: The inside of the microwave is typically made of plastic. Look for durable, easy-to-clean plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one OTR microwave better than another?
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. Doors should open and close smoothly. Buttons should feel responsive.
- Fan Noise: Powerful fans can be noisy. Check reviews to see how loud the fan is at different speeds. A quieter fan is usually a sign of better design.
- Even Cooking: Does the microwave cook food evenly? Poorly designed microwaves can leave hot spots.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior and removable parts make cleaning much simpler. Some have special coatings to resist grease.
- Durability: How long will it last? Higher-quality components mean it will likely last longer without issues.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your OTR microwave.
- Everyday Cooking: Reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking simple meals are common uses. A good OTR microwave handles these tasks quickly and easily.
- Stovetop Ventilation: The exhaust fan is crucial. It pulls smoke, grease, and cooking smells away from your cooking area. This keeps your kitchen air cleaner and your cabinets less greasy.
- Task Lighting: The light under the microwave is very handy. It brightens your stovetop, making it safer and easier to cook, especially at night.
- Space Saving: For smaller kitchens, an OTR microwave is a lifesaver. It frees up valuable counter space.
- Busy Families: Quick meal prep and easy cleanup are big wins for busy households. Preset cooking options can save time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature of an over-the-range microwave?
A: The most important features are the microwave’s power (wattage) for cooking and the exhaust fan’s power (CFM) for ventilation.
Q: How do I know if I need an outward venting or recirculating microwave?
A: If your kitchen has a vent hood that goes through an exterior wall, you need an outward venting microwave. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a recirculating microwave with charcoal filters.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves better than painted ones?
A: Stainless steel is generally more durable and resistant to scratches and rust, making it a better long-term choice. Painted steel is less expensive but can show wear more easily.
Q: How loud are over-the-range microwave fans?
A: Fan noise varies by model. Higher CFM fans can be louder. Reading reviews can give you an idea of how noisy a specific model is.
Q: Can I replace my old range hood with an over-the-range microwave?
A: Yes, this is a common upgrade. You’ll need to make sure the mounting holes and electrical connections are compatible. Professional installation is often recommended.
Q: What does CFM mean for an exhaust fan?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures how much air the fan can move. A higher CFM means the fan is stronger and can clear smoke and smells more effectively.
Q: How often should I replace the filters in a recirculating microwave?
A: It’s usually recommended to replace charcoal filters every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you cook and what you cook.
Q: What is the benefit of a turntable in a microwave?
A: A turntable rotates your food as it cooks, ensuring that it heats up evenly on all sides.
Q: Are touch controls or button controls better on an OTR microwave?
A: This is a matter of personal preference. Touch controls offer a sleek look and can be easy to clean, while buttons provide a tactile feel that some users prefer.
Q: How much space do I need above my stove for an OTR microwave?
A: Most OTR microwaves are designed to fit above standard stoves. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended height, usually between 18 and 24 inches from the stovetop.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.