Although having a microwave over the range has been a popular kitchen design trend for many years, it’s currently a trend that is on its way out. Replacing the microwave with a range hood has now become a common home project. If you’re thinking about joining in on the trend, there are some things you need to know before you get started.
Range hoods are more than just design elements. They whisk away odors and fumes from cooking and help keep the kitchen clean from grease. Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves do have exhaust fans, but they are not nearly as powerful, efficient, or effective as stand-alone traditional range hoods.
OTR Microwaves with Fans vs. Range Hoods
The main reason people would choose to have a microwave over the stove in the first place was most likely to save counter space in the kitchen. Over-the-range microwaves combine task lighting, microwaving, and ventilation into one.
However, these microwaves are not range hoods — they are microwaves with lights and a fan, and that’s very different from a traditional hood.
A microwave doesn’t ventilate nearly as well as a range hood; while a hood can actually remove foul air from the home, a microwave can only clean and recirculate the air at best (with a few expensive exceptions).
This means that people with microwaves above the range have to deal with the effects of poor indoor air quality, which can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also trigger respiratory issues like asthma.
A range hood is a purposeful appliance that sucks up dangerous fumes from cooking (which is essential, especially if you have a gas range). They pull grease from the air so it doesn’t settle and collect on your walls and ceiling. Range hoods also do an excellent job of collecting condensation and heat.
While there is potential for great convenience with the use of OTR microwaves, there is also potential for great inconvenience. If your microwave breaks and needs repair or replacement, you’ll lose three important kitchen functions (cooking, lighting, and air movement) until the issue is resolved.
So all in all, range hoods are replacing those microwaves for many good reasons. They’re simply more effective at clearing the air. They can add tremendous style to your kitchen, and they’re available in a huge array of sizes, styles, colors, and performance levels.
You can even have your own custom range hood that serves as a work of art in your kitchen!
Options for Your New Range Hood
When you decide to replace your microwave with a range hood, you’ll need to make some decisions about:
- Exhaust type
- Size
- Style
- Finish (material)
- Mount style
In addition, you will need to contemplate any range hood accessories you may want to add to your project.
Exhaust Types
There are three main exhaust types for range hoods: ductless (ventless), ducted, and convertible.
The ductless hoods filter pollutants out of the air and recirculate the cleaned air back into the kitchen. They are easier to install than ducted range hoods.
Ducted range hoods vent air and pollutants out of the house via a duct. While installation is more complex than with a ductless exhaust, it is also the best type for removing pollutants.
Convertible range hoods are those that can function like ductless hoods but can also be used with ducts. There are special filters required for this type of range hood. It’s a good option for those who aren’t sure which type of hood they’d like and want to potentially leave their options open.
Range Hood Sizes
When you consider the size of your range hood, you might think about the width but forget to consider depth. The standard depth for the finest premium range hoods is 22 inches; however, the best companies also offer larger ones and hoods that can be customized for any kitchen.
The size you end up with needs to be large enough to absorb the undesirables as you cook but small enough to fit seamlessly between your cabinets (if applicable) and into your overall kitchen design. Traditional range hoods usually have widths of 30″, 33″, 36″, 42″, or 48″.
The rule of thumb is to have a hood that is at least as wide as the range and ideally three inches longer than the range on each side. You also need the right amount of space between the range hood and the stovetop; your hood needs to be high enough to catch and absorb odors, steam, and fumes.
In general, electric ranges need a range hood that is at least 20″ to 24″ above the stove. Gas ranges need a hood that is 24″ to 30″ above it.
Range Hood Styles
There are many options when it comes to styles for kitchen range hoods. For the most part, the style you choose should be the same as the style of the rest of your kitchen. However, it’s not unheard of to have a range hood that looks completely different from everything else in a kitchen and still looks fabulous.
Some of the most popular styles of range hoods include:
- Modern
- European
- Designer
- Classic (traditional)
- Artisan
- Customized
Choosing a style for your range hood is a decision that deserves considerable time and thought. After all, a really great range hood usually becomes the focal point and the center of attention in the entire room.
Finish
Gone are the days when there were just a few options for finishes available for appliances in the kitchen. Now, there are several gorgeous materials to choose from. Some of these include copper, brass, and stainless steel. Black finishes are also popular.
Copper and brass finishes offer a traditional or rustic feel for homes, while stainless and black finishes often are more industrial and modern. Finishes can be mixed and matched for different parts of the range hood, too.
Alternatively, you can choose just one finish. Many people like to select one color for the main body and a different finish for the rivets, pot rail, straps, and crown.
Finish options also include color options, and there are literally dozens of colors available, even though many people think of just one “color” for copper, another for stainless steel, and another for brass.
Mount Style
There are three main mount styles for kitchen range hoods: under cabinet, wall mount, and island mount.
Under Cabinet Range Hoods
This type of range hood is situated above the cooktop and rests on the underside of a cabinet. An under cabinet range hood is an efficient option that provides full access to the cabinet’s interior and plenty of room above the stovetop.
Wall Mount Range Hoods
One of the most popular types of range hood mounts is the wall mount hood. These are positioned at least two feet or more above the range and are actually installed onto the wall. Those who want to make a dramatic statement by having their range hood as the prominent feature of the room might choose the wall mount option.
Island Mount Range Hoods
These hoods are great for kitchens that have ovens built into an island. This type of mount will have the range hood hanging from the ceiling above the cooktop. One thing to note about island mount hoods is that they need more powerful fans due to their position in the middle of the kitchen.
Replacing Your Microwave with a Range Hood
There are so many options when replacing your over-the-range microwave with a range hood. Don’t neglect to consider various accessories you may want as well.
Available accessories include ease-of-installation features, chimney extensions, WiFi connection options, remote controls, heat-sensing features, and Bluetooth connectivity features. If that’s not an impressive enough list, there are also range hoods with night lights on them and range hoods that have all-digital controls.
Still not excited enough about accessories? You might consider various inserts, such as a BBQ insert fan, pot filler faucets, silencers for the blower, and other add-ons.
When it comes to choosing the very best range hood to replace your microwave, your options are seemingly endless.
What are the advantages of replacing your microwave with a range hood?
If you have an over-the-range microwave, and you’re thinking of replacing your microwave with a range hood, it’s beneficial to weigh up the pros and cons. Range hoods offer a diverse range of aesthetic and functional benefits, including:
- Enhanced ventilation
Enhanced ventilation is the most significant benefit of a range hood for most customers. Swapping a microwave for a hood over the range in your kitchen will improve ventilation instantly, enabling you to enjoy cooking without worrying about dealing with smoke, steam or strong, pungent or lingering odors. Range hoods from CopperSmith offer powerful, efficient ventilation for kitchens. Our hoods are available in a range of options to cater to individual client requirements and different types and sizes of kitchens. If you’re unsure about which range hood to buy to provide sufficient ventilation, our team can help you to find the right hood for your needs based on its CFM (cubic feet per minute
- Aesthetic appeal
Some people love the simplicity and neatness of over-the-range microwaves, but range hoods have become an increasingly popular choice. Integrated microwaves free up counter space and they can look smart and slick, particularly in modern kitchens, but range hoods offer a different kind of aesthetic. Our CopperSmith range hoods come in a broad spectrum of styles to suit contemporary, classic and rustic homes. Make a strong design statement in a modern house with a stainless steel range hood, or create a stunning new focal point in a traditional kitchen with an elegant, timeless copper range hood.
- Dealing with heat
Kitchens are synonymous with generating heat. Most of us use our kitchens to cook and enjoy meals. If you love to entertain, or you’re passionate about cooking or baking, it’s important that your kitchen can deal with the intense heat produced by boiling, steaming, grilling and frying. Range hoods cope with heat much more effectively than microwaves. This is beneficial for home cooks, but it’s particularly advantageous for chefs working in commercial kitchens.
Replacing your microwave with a range hood? Tips to find the ideal product for your kitchen
If you have decided to replace your over-the-range microwave with a new range hood, it’s important to find the right product for your kitchen. Here are some top tips to help you find the ideal match:
- Consider your requirements
The first step is to consider your requirements. Think about the size of your kitchen, how often you cook and how you use your kitchen. You will need to consider these factors to help you decide on the size of the range hood, the CFM (ventilation power) and the mount style. CopperSmith provides kitchen range hoods for a wide range of clients. If you’re unsure which product to choose, our knowledgeable team can offer advice and recommendations based on your needs and preferences.
- Explore design options
We offer an extensive selection of range hoods in an array of materials and finishes. Whether you want your range hood to be a statement feature in your kitchen, or you’re looking for something to blend in seamlessly, it’s an excellent idea to explore design options. Our beautiful designs cater to contemporary and traditional kitchens with hoods to suit every style and taste. You can choose from a huge range of colors and finishes to complement your personalized design plan. We also offer customizable range hoods to enable you to design a bespoke product for your home or business. Click here to request a custom quote for your project.
- Set a budget
The cost of a range hood varies according to the size, design, material and finish. Before you start browsing designs or customizing a range hood online, set a budget. If you have a budget in mind, you can filter results and modify customization options to help you find a range hood within your price range. If you need inspiration, or you’re looking for a spectacular range hood that won’t break the bank, we’re here to help. We can provide personalized recommendations or make suggestions based on your budget.
Summary
Over-the-range microwaves were a popular design feature, but many people are now choosing to replace them with range hoods. Range hoods offer a raft of benefits for home and business owners, including enhanced ventilation, stunning aesthetics and the ability to cope with intense heat and strong odors. If you’re looking for a range hood for your kitchen, take a look at our fantastic collection. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or you’d like more information.