Ever feel like your kitchen is playing catch-up with the smells and steam from your cooking? You whip up a delicious meal, but then the lingering odors and foggy windows remind you that your kitchen needs a superhero. That’s where the humble microwave oven with an exhaust fan steps in, but choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle.
Many people want a microwave that not only heats food fast but also keeps their kitchen fresh and clean. The problem is, there are so many different models out there! Some fans are noisy, some don’t suck up smoke very well, and it’s hard to know which one will actually make your cooking experience better. You want a microwave that works hard and makes your kitchen a more pleasant place to be.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a great microwave oven with an exhaust fan. We’ll look at what to consider, like how powerful the fan is and how easy it is to clean. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of what features matter most so you can pick a microwave that will make your kitchen smell great and look its best.
Our Top 5 Microwave Oven With Exhaust Fan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Oven With Exhaust Fan Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven. This stylish stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.7 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for cooking family meals or reheating leftovers. Its powerful 1000-watt output and user-friendly features simplify your cooking routine.
What We Like:
- Spacious Interior: The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity and 12.4-inch turntable easily fit larger dishes, making it your kitchen’s top helper.
- Convenient Presets: Six quick menus and 10 cooking levels, including popcorn, beverage, and defrost, make cooking a breeze.
- Speedy Cooking Options: Use the 1-3 minute settings for instant cooking at full power.
- Smart Cooking: Multi-stage cooking lets you set different power levels for different times in one go.
- Effective Ventilation: The 300 CFM vent fan quickly removes cooking smells and smoke, while the built-in light illuminates your stovetop.
What Could Be Improved:
- The vent fan, while functional, might not be powerful enough for very heavy cooking fumes.
- The exterior stainless steel can show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent wiping.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, blending style with practical functionality. It makes cooking and meal preparation faster and more convenient.
2. GE JVM7195SKSS 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with Premium 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the GE JVM7195SKSS, a powerful 1.9 cubic foot over-the-range microwave. This stylish stainless steel appliance is designed to make cooking and reheating a breeze. It’s also bundled with a premium 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.9 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes.
- The melt feature takes the guesswork out of melting butter, chocolate, and more.
- Steam clean makes tidying up the interior super easy.
- You get a full manufacturer’s warranty plus an extra 2 years of extended protection from CPS.
- It comes with a recirculating charcoal filter kit, so you’re ready to go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
This GE microwave bundle offers great convenience and added protection. It’s a smart choice for busy households looking for a reliable and easy-to-use appliance.
3. GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Rating: 9.1/10
Looking for a reliable and stylish microwave for your kitchen? The GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in stainless steel is a fantastic choice. This bundle also comes with a 2-year CPS Enhanced Protection Pack, giving you extra peace of mind. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and your kitchen look better.
What We Like:
- This microwave has a good 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for heating up meals or cooking snacks.
- It offers convenient cooking controls, making it simple to use for everyone.
- You get a 2-year extended protection plan, which is a great bonus for added security.
- The bundle includes a charcoal filter replacement, which is essential for keeping your microwave smelling fresh.
- It’s a GE USA authorized product, so you know you’re getting quality.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (13″D x 16″W x 9″H) might be a bit compact for some users who need to fit larger dishes.
This GE microwave bundle offers a great combination of functionality and protection. It’s a solid addition to any kitchen looking for an upgrade.
4. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Midea MOR17BSA-SS Over The Range Microwave. This stylish stainless steel microwave offers a generous 1.7 cu.ft. capacity, perfect for handling larger meals and dishes. Its smart touch panel and auto cooking menu make meal preparation a breeze, while the powerful ventilation system keeps your kitchen fresh.
What We Like:
- Effortless Cooking: The “One-touch-cook” feature with 18 auto menus lets you easily make popcorn, pizza, defrost food, soften cream cheese, cook rice, potatoes, and more. You can create delicious meals quickly and simply.
- Spacious Interior: With a 1.7 cu.ft. capacity and a 12.5-inch turntable, this microwave easily fits a whole rotisserie chicken or a 12-inch pizza. No more struggling to fit your favorite foods inside.
- Customizable Power: Enjoy 10-level power settings, including a powerful 1000W output, to meet all your heating needs, from gentle warming to rapid cooking.
- Powerful Ventilation: The 300 CFM ventilation system, with adjustable fan speeds, strongly removes cooking fumes and odors, keeping your kitchen air clean and pleasant.
- Bright Cooktop Light: A bright light under the microwave illuminates your stovetop, giving you a clear view while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- The smart touch panel, while advanced, might have a slight learning curve for some users.
- While powerful, the fan noise at its highest setting could be noticeable in quieter kitchens.
The Midea MOR17BSA-SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, blending advanced features with practical design for everyday use.
5. COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent Fan
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to upgrade your kitchen with the COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS Over the Range Microwave Oven! This sleek 24-inch microwave, in a stylish black and stainless steel finish, is designed to make cooking easier and your kitchen air fresher. With its generous 1.34 cubic feet of space and powerful 1000 watts of cooking power, you can handle all sorts of meals with ease. Plus, it’s RV friendly, so you can enjoy great cooking even on the go!
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: 1000 watts of power with 10 different power levels let you cook food perfectly.
- Fresh Kitchen Air: The integrated range hood removes smoke, smells, and extra moisture from your cooking.
- Easy Cooking Options: Touch presets help you melt, soften, defrost, and pop popcorn without guessing.
- Smart Cooking: The sensor reheat and cook mode knows when your food is ready and stops by itself.
- Spacious Interior: A 1.34 cu. ft. capacity fits most dishes and meals.
- RV Ready: This microwave is designed to work well in RVs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior dimensions are 23.8″ (W) x 16.1″ (D) x 17″ (H), which might be larger than some compact kitchens.
The COSMO COS-2413ORM1SS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and power. It’s a smart choice for everyday cooking and keeping your kitchen smelling great.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Why a Microwave Oven with an Exhaust Fan?
A microwave oven with an exhaust fan is a smart addition to any kitchen. It not only heats your food quickly but also helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh. This appliance combines two useful functions into one, saving space and making cooking easier.
Key Features to Look For
1. Microwave Power (Wattage)
Microwaves come in different power levels, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance. Some microwaves have adjustable power levels, which is helpful for different types of food.
2. Exhaust Fan Strength (CFM)
The exhaust fan’s strength is measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). This tells you how much air it can move. For a typical kitchen, a fan with 100-200 CFM is usually enough to clear smoke and smells. If you cook a lot of greasy foods, you might want a higher CFM.
3. Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in various sizes. Measure the space where you plan to put it. The capacity is measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity is good for cooking bigger meals or multiple dishes at once. Common sizes are around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet.
4. Venting Options
Most microwave ovens with exhaust fans can be vented in two ways: externally or recirculating. External venting pushes air outside your home, which is the most effective. Recirculating vents use charcoal filters to clean the air before blowing it back into the kitchen. Make sure the model you choose has the venting option that works for your kitchen setup.
5. Cooking Presets and Features
Many microwaves have helpful presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. Some also have sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. Other useful features include a turntable for even cooking and interior lighting.
Important Materials
1. Interior and Exterior Finish
The inside of the microwave is usually made of stainless steel or a non-stick coating. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. The exterior can be stainless steel, plastic, or a combination. Stainless steel looks sleek and lasts longer.
2. Filters
The exhaust fan uses filters to trap grease and odors. These are often made of metal mesh for grease and charcoal for odors. You’ll need to clean or replace these filters regularly to keep the fan working well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Good Build Quality: A sturdy construction means the microwave will last longer.
- Quiet Operation: A well-made fan and motor will be quieter.
- Effective Ventilation: A strong fan that efficiently removes smoke and odors.
- Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Non-stick interiors and smooth exteriors make cleaning simple.
Reducing Quality:
- Weak Fan: If the fan isn’t strong enough, smoke and smells will linger.
- Poorly Designed Controls: Confusing buttons or a difficult-to-read display can be frustrating.
- Flimsy Materials: Cheap plastic or thin metal can break easily.
- Ineffective Filters: Filters that don’t capture grease or odors well will reduce performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a microwave with an exhaust fan is very convenient. You can heat up leftovers, cook quick meals, or even grill and bake with some models, all while keeping your kitchen air clean. It’s perfect for small apartments or kitchens where space is limited. Families can use it for everyday cooking and reheating. Busy professionals appreciate its speed and the added benefit of a cleaner kitchen environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a microwave with an exhaust fan?
A: The main benefit is that it combines microwave cooking with kitchen ventilation, helping to remove smoke, steam, and odors.
Q: How often should I clean the exhaust fan filters?
A: You should clean grease filters every 1-3 months, depending on how often you cook. Charcoal filters usually need to be replaced every 6-12 months.
Q: Can I install a microwave with an exhaust fan if I don’t have an external vent?
A: Yes, many models offer recirculating ventilation, which uses filters to clean the air before releasing it back into the kitchen.
Q: What is CFM and why is it important 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 the air more effectively.
Q: Does a higher wattage microwave cook food faster?
A: Yes, a higher wattage generally means the microwave heats food more quickly.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors better than non-stick interiors?
A: Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean for most users. Non-stick coatings can be convenient but may scratch over time.
Q: What size microwave is right for my kitchen?
A: Measure the space where you plan to put it and consider how much food you typically cook. Standard countertop models are around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet.
Q: What are cooking presets?
A: Cooking presets are pre-programmed settings for specific foods, like popcorn or baked potatoes, that automatically adjust cooking time and power.
Q: How do I know if my microwave needs external venting?
A: If your kitchen often gets smoky or has strong cooking smells, external venting is usually more effective than recirculating.
Q: Can I use the exhaust fan without using the microwave?
A: Yes, most models allow you to use the exhaust fan independently to help clear the air in your kitchen.
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.