Over-the-Range Microwaves

About Over-the-Range Microwaves

An over-the-range microwave does two jobs at once: it heats food and clears smoke and steam from your cooktop, replacing a separate range hood. Capacity is the first thing to nail down, with most OTR models landing between 1.1 and 2.0 cubic feet, and width matters just as much since standard kitchens take a 30-inch unit while some ranges are sized for a 24-inch fit. Wattage tells you how fast and evenly the microwave heats, and in this catalog models range from 850 watts up to 1,500 watts. If you cook more than just reheating, a convection OTR microwave adds a heating element and fan so the cavity can also bake and roast. Getting the ventilation right for your kitchen setup, whether you duct to the outside or recirculate through a charcoal filter, is a decision to sort out before you buy.