Microwaves are incredible pieces of technology. They make cooking a breeze and keep our food piping hot between meals.
However, microwaves can sometimes pose problems for homeowners. One such problem is that they emit dangerous radiation that can be harmful if not properly vented.
Learning how to vent a microwave on your interior wall helps you eliminate these risks while ensuring a safe and comfortable home.
Here’s how to vent a microwave on an interior wall.
Using a template, mark off where you want your vent, considering your microwave’s blower position. Next, drill holes in each corner of your marked-off area. Then, screw the mounting bracket to your wall. Finally, mount your microwave and link it to the exhaust adapter, which connects to the vent cap outside.
In this article, we’ll delve into each of these steps in greater detail. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about venting microwaves. But first, let’s discuss the importance of properly vented microwaves.
Why Should You Vent Your Microwave?
Before we get into the steps of venting your microwave, it’s crucial to understand why you should do it. So, here are four reasons why venting your microwave is essential:
1. To Remove Unwanted Odors
Cooking any number of foods can lead to unwanted odors that tend to linger in your microwave. Over time, those odors can become less and less appetizing. Sometimes cleaning products or other chemicals can leave behind an odor as well.
The key is removing them before they have a chance to build up. By venting your microwave, you’ll be able to avoid these unpleasant smells in your kitchen.
You can also check this article on how to remove unwanted burnt smell in the microwave
2. Removing Smoke
Smoke from cooking is one of those things that can easily escape from your kitchen through cracks and crevices. And, if not removed, it can permeate your walls and ceiling with nasty chemicals.
As a result, it can damage your home and even cause health problems for you and your family. It’s therefore important to remove smoke as soon as possible. And one way to do so is by venting your microwave on an interior wall.
3. Heat Decimation
All microwaves produce heat as they operate, which, if not properly vented, can cause damage to your home. Venting allows excess heat to escape and keeps your kitchen cool and comfortable.
9 Easy Steps On How to Vent a Microwave on an Interior Wall
Everybody wants a home that is both comfortable and safe. Of course, no one wants to live in an unsafe environment. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how to vent your microwave effectively.
Below we’ve listed nine easy steps to vent a microwave on an interior wall:
Tools and Materials Needed
- A drill
- A screwdriver
- Screws
- Brackets
- Exhaust adapter
- A pencil
- Silicone caulk
Step 1: Identifying a Suitable Place
The first thing you’ll need to do is find a suitable place for your microwave vent. In most cases, it is recommended that you vent your microwave into one of your kitchen walls.
However, ensure that no pipes or electrical wires run through that spot. In addition, you may want to check with local building codes. Lastly, avoid putting your ventilation system near heat sources such as ovens and stoves. Once you’ve identified a suitable location, proceed to step 2.
Step 2: Create a Template
Using a pencil, trace a template of your microwave onto the wall. This will be used as a guide for cutting out the hole. Make sure you’re accurate. You don’t want to cut too big or too small.
Also, take into consideration where your microwave’s blower is positioned. The blower should not block any vent holes. If it does, then you need to adjust your template accordingly.
Step 3: Drill the Holes
Using marked holes in your template as a guide, use a 3/16-inch drill bit to drill holes in the wall.
When drilling, ensure you don’t push too hard and crack through any part of your wall. It is also very important that you don’t put any holes in any electrical or plumbing lines.
Step 4: Install the Mounting Brackets
Take your mounting brackets and bolt them into the wall using a drill. Make sure that you line up each bracket to level with one another. Once they are all in place, tighten down each bolt until secure. Once you have bolted all of your brackets, it’s time to mount your microwave onto the wall.
Step 5: Lift the Microwave for Mounting
Mounting a microwave requires some heavy lifting, so it’s best if you enlist some extra muscle. One person holds up one end of the microwave while you hold up its other end. This will ensure that your microwave is level and secure when you mount it to your wall.
Step 6: Mount the Microwave
Using a screwdriver, attach your microwave to its brackets. Ensure that your microwave is level such that it sits flush against your wall when mounted.
If your microwave lacks pre-drilled holes, you’ll need to drill some yourself or find an alternative way of attaching it to your brackets.
Also, remember not to over-tighten the screws as they might damage your microwave. Once you have successfully attached your microwave to its brackets, proceed with securing the power cord.
Step 7: Secure the Power Cord
Take the power cord and feed it into your cabinet hole. Make sure you have enough slack in your cord to plug in your microwave when finished. Pulling excess cable through will make your job easier later.
Step 8: Link the Exhaust Adapter to Your Microwave
Apply a bead of high-temperature silicone sealant or any other adhesive around both ends of your exhaust adapter. Allow it to dry for 15 minutes before attaching it to your microwave. Just make sure that whatever adhesive you use is rated for outdoor use and won’t crack when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Final Step: Test Your Vent
Now that everything is in place, it’s time to put your vent to the test. This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it. Turn on your microwave, then go outside and check for any air or steam coming out of the vent cap.
If air or steam flows out, you have successfully vented your microwave. If not, go over each step to ensure you didn’t miss anything.
Faqs About How to Vent a Microwave on Interior Wall
1. Does an over-the-range microwave need to be vented?
Most of these units are self-venting, meaning they do not need to be vented. They come fitted with a charcoal filter that recycles and removes heated air from inside your microwave.
Additionally, they also provide venting outside via an interior wall or window. So, you might want to take that advantage for safety reasons.
2. Can a microwave be vented down?
Venting a microwave by directing its exhaust downward in some situations is acceptable. This is because down-venting causes moisture and grease to build up in your walls, eventually leading to mold growth. In most cases, however, you should direct the vents upwards.
3. What size is the microwave vent?
The standard size for microwave vents is 3 1/4- by 10-inch rectangular or 6 inches (15.2 cm) in diameter, but other sizes are available.
As a precaution, ensure that the total vent length does not exceed 140 feet (42 m), including all elbows, offsets, transitions, and roof caps. Also, don’t forget to include wall thickness when calculating the length.
4. How do you vent the microwave over the roof?
One way to install a microwave over an interior wall is by mounting it near and above ceiling level and then installing an exhaust duct up through that section.
So, you’ll need first to identify your preferred location for installation. Using a template, mark out where to drill holes to mount the brackets to support your microwave.
Then link your microwave to the exhaust adapter and apply silicone sealant around all edges of your new vent. This should prevent air from leaking into or out of your home. Finally, fit your exhaust adapter into place, connect it to the vent cap on top of your roof, and turn on your microwave.
5. Can you use a flexible duct for the microwave vent?
No, you cannot use a flexible duct for microwave venting. A flexible duct is not designed for airflow and can’t handle heat or pressure from your microwave. The type of duct required for venting microwaves depends on your CFM range hood.
6. How do you install a kitchen vent through the wall?
Mark out where you want your vent to go, and drill a hole for it. Use a template if you’re not sure of its placement. Next, make a large hole in your wall to fit your exhaust adapter.
Link your microwave to the vent with ducting applying silicone sealant to each joint. Finally, connect the exhaust adapter to the vent cap outside your and add insulation around all joints.
7. What is a convertible vent on a microwave?
A convertible vent means venting your microwave through your roof or an interior wall. The first step is to decide where you want to place your microwave and where you want it vented.
8. How do I know if my microwave is vented outside?
Check for any visible holes in your cabinet that look like exhaust fans. Also, check if there is an air vent cap outside your house or apartment.
If you do not see either of these, contact a professional and have them install an exterior vent or replace your microwave with a vented one.
9. How much room does a microwave vent need?
When installing a microwave, you need at least 3 inches of clearance around it for proper ventilation. Use a template or a measuring tape to ensure your vent is properly sized.
10. Do over-the-range microwaves have exhaust fans?
Yes, over-the-range microwaves have exhaust fans for proper ventilation. As a result, you do not need to vent them through your wall.
11. How much does it cost to install a microwave vent?
The average cost of installing a microwave vent is around $200. The exact price will vary based on your location, labor rates, and other factors.
Bottom Line
A good ventilation system is crucial in any kitchen, and microwaves are no exception. It ensures a clean environment for your family and protects your home from unnecessary damage.
Getting the measurements right and providing adequate support for your microwave are crucial steps in your DIY project. You will also want to apply appropriate adhesive and sealant so that there are no leaks or air gaps.
And if you come across gas lines or electrical wires while drilling, turn off the power and contact a professional promptly. Also, don’t forget to get approval from your local building authority before starting work. Nevertheless, follow our guide to ensure that your venting is done correctly.
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