For smaller kitchens, a classic choice for most of us is the over-the-range microwave, also known as OTR microwaves. Since it is tucked away neatly over the stove, it also acts as a hood vent. These save a lot of space and are relatively inexpensive as well.
For those who wanted to know, are over-the-range microwaves out of style? Please note, no, over the range microwaves are not out of style. Many companies like Whirlpool are still manufacturing OTR microwaves.
There are many features in such kinds of microwaves. There have not been many changes in the over-the-range microwaves since it was made for the first time. The typical specifications of these are:
- 16.2 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 16.3 inches deep.
- The average CFM (cubes of air exhausted in a minute) is 300-400
However, now there are many alternatives to over-the-range microwaves which are becoming common. These are:
1. Induction ranges and cooktops
These are efficient as compared to gas in which induction is used which is a magnetic heat. These boils the food faster, are easy to clean, child-safe, and less venting is required.
2. Microwave Drawers
With a button touch, microwave drawers slide out which are of great use in spaces like islands and cabinets.
3. Speed Oven
These are convection microwaves and can be placed anywhere as they do not fold down and slide out. These are 220 Volts products and should be placed in a wall cabinet.
4. Under-cabinet microwave
It is placed in the cabinet and can be used even by the short-height person who finds difficulty in working on OTR microwaves.
Microwave Above Stove Pros and Cons
Microwaves placed above the stove are over-the-range microwaves that have a built-in ventilation system that eliminates smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
The pros and cons of the microwave above the stove are mentioned below:
Pros
- Since it is installed above the stove, more counter space is available for meal preparation and other small appliances.
- This works as a range hood as well so you do not need to buy a separate range hood. Thus, it saves a lot of money.
- It has more functionality as it works as both microwave and ventilation requirements.
- Child friendly as children are not able to access this as the microwave is placed at a height.
Cons
- The shorter height people find it difficult to work on microwaves placed above the stove. It is kept at a height that is inaccessible for short-height people.
- Fans of these microwaves have 300 CFM which is not so powerful as compared to the range hood that has a fan of 1000 CFM.
- As compared to countertop microwaves, these are expensive.
- It is cumbersome to work in tall pots in these microwaves as you would not be able to observe the content during cooking. Also, while the stove is being used, you have to take extra care while cooking in the microwave which is placed above it.
Are built in microwaves worth it?
It is an individual choice to consider whether a built-in microwave is worth buying or not. Even though the built-in microwave is expensive as compared to the countertop/freestanding microwave, it is still preferred by many of us due to its features.
The built-in microwave is very useful in keeping the kitchen counter neat and clean. It can fit into the cabinet easily if you select the correct size based on the cabinet size.
There is a fantastic range of built-in microwaves available readily in the market and you can select anyone according to your choice and requirement.
At the same time, it is observed that the installation of a built-in microwave is a little tricky. You will need a licensed contractor who will be able to put the appliance into your cabinet.
It is essential to ensure that the microwave is bracketed safely into the unit and sufficient ventilation is provided to prevent a potential fire hazard.
Why do people put microwaves above the stove?
A microwave is a great appliance that saves a lot of time from boiling water to defrost meat. It does everything quickly.
Many people prefer to keep their microwaves over the stove by mounting them onto the wall. This is one of the favorite places for them to keep the microwave.
People put microwaves above the stove because of the following reasons:
- This gets the microwave off the countertop or island, providing more counter space where people can work comfortably. It gives more food preparation space.
- It gives a stylish and elegant look to the kitchen by reducing the appearance of clutter in the kitchen.
- When the microwave is placed above the stove, all the cooking appliances are put in the same general area which makes the kitchen a more efficient workplace.
Though Precautions should be taken while installing microwave above the stove, these are:
- It is important to install an over-the-stove microwave correctly or you can face some issues. The distance between the bottom and the stove range should be a minimum of 30 inches. If the microwave is very close to the stove, you will not have enough room to work on the stove and the risks of burns also increase.
- Always get the microwave with a vent feature so that it can be used to vent your stove when cooking gets steamy.
Conclusion
Even though there are many alternatives of over-the-range microwaves having better features, the OTR microwaves are not going out of style. Many people still prefer it over others due to the advantages provided by it.
It is sometimes observed that grease and smoke produced by the high-powered gas stoves are not handled by the over-the-range microwave and thus, people use induction stoves so that they can conveniently use their favorite OTR microwave.
That is all in this article. Hope you get enough information regarding the advantages and disadvantages of the over-the-range microwave.