Is microwave over stove outdated?

With technology constantly evolving in the world of kitchen appliances, many homeowners find themselves wondering if certain fixtures are still worth installing in new construction or renovations. One such fixture is the microwave oven installed over the stove – this setup has been popular for decades, allowing homeowners to save space by combining the microwave and range hood. However, as new options emerge, like built-in microwaves or downdraft range hoods, many are questioning if the over-the-range microwave is now outdated. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of microwave ovens over the stove to help you decide if this appliance still has a place in today’s kitchens.

What are the benefits of microwave oven over stove?

For many years, the microwave oven over the stove has been a staple in kitchens across America. This setup does offer several benefits that made it so popular in the first place:

• Saves space – Eliminates the need for two separate appliances and frees up counter space.
• Adds ventilation – Functions as both a microwave and a range hood to vent cooking fumes.
• Easy to install – Can be installed by securing to an existing overhead cabinet over the range.
• Budget-friendly – Typically more affordable than buying both a microwave and range hood.
• Improved visibility – Raises the microwave to eye level so you can easily view food cooking inside.

For many homeowners, the space-saving ability of the over-the-range microwave is its biggest selling point. By combining two appliances in one, you can free up precious real estate on your countertops. This integrated setup also meets the ventilation needs for your cooking area, eliminating the need for a separate range hood.

What are the downsides of microwave oven over stove?

While microwave ovens over the stove have been popular for years, they have some drawbacks that lead many homeowners to explore other options:

• Limited power – Tend to have lower wattage than countertop models.
• Hard to reach – The elevated location can make it hard to access safely, especially for short or wheelchair-bound users.
• Difficult installation – Often requires professional installation and may require modifications to cabinets or the electrical system.
• Circulation issues – Don’t ventilate as efficiently as range hoods designed for the task.
• Cleaning challenges – More difficult to clean accumulated grease and dirt than a range hood.
• Noise – Often noisier than other ventilation options due to the fan blowing hot air upward.

The main complaints with over-the-range microwaves relate to their subpar performance as both a microwave and a range hood. Their ventilation capabilities are limited, while their location makes them inconvenient to use safely. This can make them a compromise rather than an ideal solution.

What are the alternatives to microwave oven over stove?

Instead of the microwave over the stove setup, many modern kitchens now opt for alternative configurations using separate appliances. Some popular options include:

• Countertop microwave – More convenient location at eye and hand level. Can accommodate larger, more powerful models.
• Built-in microwave – Integrated seamlessly into cabinetry for a sleek, flush installation.
• Range hood – Dedicated ventilation system sized appropriately for cooking needs.
• Downdraft range hood – Ventilation that pulls air across the cooktop and vents through the floor or wall.

The right alternative for your kitchen depends on your space, needs and budget. Many homeowners choose to keep the convenience of a microwave oven by purchasing a countertop or built-in model separately from their ventilation system. While this takes up more space, it allows you to select the best performing microwave and range hood models for your cooking requirements.

How much does it cost to install microwave oven over stove?

If you do opt to install a microwave over your stove, the costs typically range from $200 to $1,000 for the unit and professional installation. The price varies based on the microwave wattage, ventilation capabilities and customization of the installation. Key factors impacting over-the-range microwave installation costs include:

• Microwave oven price – Budget units start around $100, while high-end models run $500 and up.
• Ventilation features – Microwaves with more powerful fans and ventilation capabilities will be more expensive.
• Installation charges – Labor will cost $100 to $500 depending on electrical work and cabinet modifications needed.
• Professional installation – While DIY is possible, professional installation ensures proper clearance and ventilation.

Going with a lower wattage, budget-friendly microwave model and doing your own installation can reduce the overall project cost. However, investing in proper ventilation and professional installation is recommended to get the most value from an over-the-range microwave oven.

What are the current kitchen microwave trends?

When evaluating the over-the-range microwave option, it helps to consider some of the latest kitchen microwave trends:

• Countertop models remain popular for their versatility and ease of use.
• Built-in and concealed microwaves allow for a more integrated, sleek look.
• Smart microwaves with WiFi connectivity are on the rise, allowing for remote control via smartphone.
• Higher wattage inverters for more consistent, even heating are becoming standard.
• Added features like convection cooking, humidity sensors and food-specific settings are increasing.

Many of the latest microwave trends cater to higher performance and a cleaner aesthetic. This highlights the downsides of over-the-range models that tend to have limited power and a more utilitarian look. The rising popularity of built-in options also gives homeowners an alternative way to save space by integrating the microwave seamlessly into cabinetry.

What are the best microwave brands to consider?

When selecting any new kitchen microwave, including over-the-range models, your best bet is to stick with reputable, leading brands known for quality and performance. Some of the top microwave brands on the market include:

• GE: Offers a range of over-the-range models at various price points with advanced features like Scan-to-Cook technology.
• Samsung: Provides premium over-the-range microwaves with options like integrated range hoods and smart WiFi capabilities.
• LG: Known for reliable, attractively designed microwave ovens, including over-the-range venting models.
• Whirlpool: Trusted brand with good performing over-the-range microwaves at reasonable price points.
• Sharp: Leading choice for high-end, smart over-the-range models with interactive display screens.

Sticking with an established brand can give you added peace of mind about reliability and warranty support for your over-the-range microwave purchase.

Is an over-the-range microwave necessary for my kitchen?

At the end of the day, deciding if an over-the-range microwave is still the best fit comes down to your specific kitchen needs. Here are a few key questions to ask yourself when evaluating if this type of microwave is right for your home:

• Is conserving countertop space a priority? An over-the-range unit can eliminate the need for microwaves taking up room on countertops or other cabinets.
• Do you frequently use your microwave? The overhead location allows for easy access while cooking at the stove.
• Is your kitchen well-ventilated? Microwave range hood combos work best in smaller kitchens lacking other ventilation.
• Is the look outdated to you? Some homeowners dislike the utilitarian aesthetic of over-the-range microwaves.
• Can you live with the drawbacks? Consider if limited power or inconvenient access outweigh the benefits for your needs.

Taking into account your available space, design style and how you use your microwave most can help determine if going over the stove is the optimal choice. Be sure to also look at the cost and installation considerations for your situation. While the over-the-range microwave may be falling out of favor with some homeowners, for others it remains an effective, budget-friendly appliance installation.

Conclusion

Over-the-range microwave ovens have been a popular kitchen solution since being introduced in the 1960s. However, with recent advances in microwave and ventilation technologies, many now view this setup as outdated. The limited power, difficult access, noisy operation and utilitarian look of many over-the-range microwaves make them less than ideal. Dedicated countertop microwaves and range hoods now offer a superior alternative.

However, for homeowners with space constraints and small kitchens, combining the microwave and range hood can still be an effective solution. Over-the-range models from reputable brands like GE and Samsung also continue to improve with smarter features and better performance. Ultimately, your needs and kitchen layout should drive if an over-the-range microwave still makes sense or if newer options like built-in microwaves are the better fit.

Regardless of the choice you make, be sure to invest in proper installation and select a high-quality model to get the most out of your microwave. With smart planning and consideration of the latest kitchen trends, even the often overlooked microwave oven can be an appliance that both functions well and looks great.