What size vent do I need for a microwave?

All mounting kits are not the same. They are specifically designed by the manufacturer for the model. Mounting kits are provided when you purchase the above range microwave or you can purchase one separately. The kits must vary in their configuration to properly accommodate hanging the microwave securely.

Over-Range An over-the-range microwave installation costs around $150 to $570. Installing one over the range takes about an hour if there’s an available electrical outlet. Most over-range units have options for outdoor venting as well.

Yes, all hardware is included.

An externally vented microwave uses a fan to draw air through the microwave’s vents and into an exhaust duct leading to the exterior of the building, which means that most of the moisture, heat, odor and particulate matter generated by cooking goes directly outside.

Over-the-Range microwaves have a cooktop light underneath to help you better see the food you’re cooking on the cooktop surface below.

In its simplest form, the project involves installing a mounting bracket on the back wall, drilling access holes in the upper cabinet through which to feed the electrical cord and vent duct, hooking the oven onto the mounting bracket, and then bolting the oven in place through the bottom of the upper cabinet.

Each microwave comes with the mounting hardware (mounting bracket, screws, exhaust adapter), top and rear templates, and installation instructions needed to complete the installation process.

The vent is on the top rear as with most over the range microwaves. You can vent it traditionally (ie to an outside vent) or recirculate it, which means just that–the air recirculates as opposed to being vented outside. There is an air filter used for this that comes with the unit.

For your convenience, we provide installation services for an additional fee. Dishwashers, microwaves, cooktops, wall ovens, slide-in ranges, drop-in ranges, gas ranges, gas dryers, range hoods, garbage disposals and trash compactors can be installed by a Lowe’s third-party qualified professional.

Microwave sizes are fairly standardized with most over-the-range microwaves measuring around 30″ wide, 17″ high and 15″ to 18″ deep with the door closed. Built-in microwave sizes also tend to match standard cabinet dimensions.

If your microwave is installed above the range, the manufacturer will recommend that you keep a distance of at least thirteen inches between the base of the microwave and the top of the stove. But some manufacturers might call for this distance to be a minimum of eighteen inches.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that the bottom of the microwave should be no higher than 54 inches above the floor, which would allow for 18 inches of clearance between the microwave and the typical cooktop height of 36 inches. Some manufacturers allow smaller clearances.

Recommended Vent Length A 31/4″ x 10″ (8.3 x 25.4 cm) rectangular or 6″ (15.2 cm) round vent should be used. The total length of the vent system including straight vent, elbow(s), transitions and wall or roof caps must not exceed the equivalent of 140 ft (42.7 m) for either type of vent.