Where To Put Microwave In Kitchen With Range Hood? Best 2023 Guide

It can be challenging to decide where to put microwave in kitchen with range hood when planning your kitchen layout. Considering where your range hood will be located and how it will affect your microwave placement is important if you have a range hood. I will provide some tips and considerations for where to place your microwave in a kitchen with a range hood.

Where To Put Microwave In Kitchen With Range Hood? 

The following are the points for placing a microwave in kitchen with a range hood: 

Over-the-range microwave

Over-the-range microwaves are a popular option for kitchens with range hoods. In addition to including a built-in ventilation system, this type of microwave is designed to be mounted above your stove. A countertop setup like this can save your counter space and can make your kitchen more efficient.

When the microwave is set up over the range, it should be set to the right height. Most manufacturers say that microwaves should be put up between 13 and 16 inches above the stove. It also allows for proper ventilation and makes it easier to reach the microwave.

Under-the-counter microwave

Installing an under-the-counter microwave in a kitchen with a range hood is another option. A microwave of this type can installed in a lower cabinet or on an island in the kitchen. If you want to keep your microwave out of sight or if you want to free up countertop space, this can be a good option.

Ensure that an under-the-counter microwave is installing at the correct height when installing it. According to most manufacturers, the microwave should be installed between 15 and 18 inches above the countertop. Using the microwave will be easier if you can easily reach it.

Read More: How to Remove Microwave and Install Range Hood?

Microwave in a pantry or cabinet

Microwave installed in a pantry or cabinet if you don’t have much space in your kitchen. In this way, you can keep your microwave out of sight and free up valuable counter space. Microwave drawers can also installing in small kitchens, which can be a great option.

The microwave should installs in a pantry or cabinet with adequate ventilation. It may be necessary to install a vent or a fan to ensure the microwave is properly ventilating. Furthermore, you should ensure that the microwave is easily accessible and that it is within easy reach.

Built-in microwave

Considering a built-in microwave when designing a custom kitchen may be a good idea. A microwave like this can be built into your cabinets or walls and customize to meet your needs. If you want a seamless look in your kitchen and if you have specific design requirements, it can be a great option. A built-in microwave should be properly installed and ventilated when installed. The microwave may need to be installed by a contractor or a kitchen designer.

Consider your cooking habits.

Consider your cooking habits when deciding where to place microwave in kitchen with range hood. If you frequently use your microwave, you may want to choose an easily accessible location that does not require you to bend or reach too far. It may also be a good idea to consider the size of your microwave and how it will fit into your kitchen design.

Does Microwave Placement Matter?

Yes, microwave placement matters in your kitchen. Choosing the right microwave location can impact both your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics.

First, think about convenience. Putting the microwave where it’s easy to access and ergonomic can make cooking easier. Ideally, it should be at a height that makes it easy to reach, so accidents won’t happen. Microwaves are often installed above counters or within kitchen islands for easy access.

Next, think about your workflow. You should place your microwave where it complements the flow of your kitchen. Place it near other cooking appliances, like the stove or oven, so you can transfer hot or partially cooked stuff easily. You’ll save time and effort.

It should blend in with your kitchen’s design. Countertop microwaves should be placed in a way that doesn’t disrupt the visual harmony of your kitchen, whereas integrated microwave drawers or built-in microwave ovens can make your kitchen look sleek and cohesive.

Lastly, safety is of utmost importance. Don’t place the microwave too high or too low, as it can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Make sure you have enough ventilation space around the microwave so it can dissipate heat, and never enclose it too tightly.

Read More: Can You Make Microwave Popcorn In A Toaster Oven?

How Far Is Safe From Microwave Radiation?

The safe distance from microwave radiation is typically 2-3 feet or more from the microwave oven while it’s on. It helps minimize exposure to microwave radiation, which is confined inside the oven and contained by the oven’s safety features, like the seal on the door and the shielding around the microwave.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines in the microwave’s user manual regarding safe distances and precautions. To minimize microwave radiation exposure, don’t stand too close to the microwave.

When used properly, microwave ovens are designed with safety measures to prevent radiation leaks, so the risk of harmful exposure is low. Safe distances add an extra layer of safety.

Benefits Of Putting Microwave In Kitchen With Range Hood

There are several potential benefits to putting a microwave with a range hood, including:

Space-saving

An advantage of a microwave with a built-in range hood is that it saves space. In traditional kitchens, you often have a hard time allocating precious counter or cabinet space. This allows you to free up space for other kitchen needs by integrating these two essentials. With this space-saving innovation, your kitchen will look more organized and streamlined.

Ventilation

Smoke, steam, and other pollutants that may be released during cooking can be removed by a range hood. Microwaves with built-in range hoods provide cooking convenience and ventilation in one unit.

Improved air quality

You can improve air quality in your home by installing a range hood if you want a healthier, more comfortable living environment. People with allergies or respiratory issues will especially benefit from this improvement:

Airborne Contaminant Removal:

Your range hood’s main job is to keep your kitchen clean by removing airborne contaminants. Cooking releases smoke, grease, steam, and odors into the air. Not only do these things mess up your kitchen, but they can also get into other parts of your house. These pollutants are captured and expelled from a range hood, preventing them from circulating throughout your house.

A Boon for Allergy Sufferers:

Airborne irritants can aggravate allergy symptoms and discomfort for those who suffer from them. Sneezing, congestion, and other allergic reactions can be triggered by cooking fumes and particles. By removing these allergens quickly and efficiently, a range hood can help. When allergens are at their highest during cooking, this is especially important.

Respiratory Relief:

Additionally, range hoods can be extremely beneficial for those suffering from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Poor air quality can exacerbate these conditions and make them worse. By removing pollutants quickly, a range hood keeps your home clean and breathable, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and improving lung health.

A range hood isn’t just about removing odors and preventing grease buildup in your kitchen; it’s also a powerful ally in improving air quality. It’s especially important for allergy sufferers or people with respiratory problems to create a healthier home environment. Investing in a range hood will improve the quality of your indoor air and help you breathe better.

Cooking convenience

With microwaves that have integrated range hoods, cooking convenience meets ventilation power. It simplifies your culinary tasks, so you can cook meals efficiently and easily. Imagine being able to cook multiple dishes simultaneously without having to worry about overcrowding. No matter what you’re cooking, this combination will keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Cost-effective

A microwave combined with a range hood can be a cost-effective way to upgrade your kitchen appliances without needing additional space or installation. Most homeowners looking to improve their kitchen’s functionality and quality of air can benefit from installing a microwave along with a range hood.

Drawbacks Of Putting Microwave In Kitchen With Range Hood

There are several potential drawbacks to putting a microwave in a kitchen with a range hood:

Limited Space

You may be unable to store or prepare other items in your kitchen if you install a microwave over the range hood.

Ventilation Issues

In the kitchen, the range hood is designing to remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors. The microwave, however, can affect the ventilation system’s effectiveness if it is installing above the range hood.

Noise Pollution

It is possible for the microwave to cause a loud and unpleasant noise in the kitchen if it is placed too close to the range hood.

Heat Damage

It is possible to damage the cabinets or the microwave itself if the range hood and microwave are improperly installed.

Safety Concerns

When a microwave is installing incorrectly or misused, it can pose a safety hazard above the range hood. It is possible for a microwave to overheat and possibly start a fire if it is not properly ventilated.

Read More: Are Kobe Range Hoods Good?

Conclusion

Generally, there are several options for where to place a has several options can choose to install an over-the-range microwave, an under-the-counter microwave, a microwave in a pantry or cabinet, a built-in microwave, or another location that fits your specific needs. When choosing a location, it is important to consider your cooking habits, the size of your microwave, and any design requirements you may have.