OTR MICROWAVE OVEN | Pros vs Cons | But mostly cons...

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey all! Microwaves emit non-ionizing radiation. I linked to an article in the description from the FDA talking about it. Just wanted to post a correction. Thanks so much for watching.

[@ravenstarver1360]

Which is also the radiation that falls between visible light and radio waves. Just really focused in on a frequency for effecting the polarity of water molecules. BTW why have you hearted a few spam comments?

[@josiahpaez4601]

So glad you noted this, there is a big difference between the two.

[@jeremyjedynak]

Many good points in this video. Thank you for the pinned comment correcting the error in the video, and confirming that microwaves actually emit non-ionizing radiation.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks! I do my best to correct myself when I mess up. It happens a lot. lol

[@billvojtech5686]

I love my OTR microwave. I have a small kitchen in a small apartment. The kitchen actually doubles as the entry hall, so there is no exterior wall. A single purpose hood would just be set up to recirculate air anyway. I’m not afraid of microwave radiation and I don’t tend to stand in front of it when it’s on. I’ve never felt at risk with taking hot things out with it at eye level.

[@MTKDofficial]

I feel for you..lol. jk. Thanks for the comment. The main thing, is that you like it and it works.

[@billvojtech5686]

@@MTKDofficial I've since seen pictures of other OTR microwaves. Either they were mounted much higher than mine, or the person in the picture was very short. I'm 5'10" and my microwave is approx 54" from the floor and I look down into it. The person I saw pictured would not be able to see the bottom of the inside of their microwave. When I bought the apartment, the kitchen had an archway between it and the living room and the ceiling in the kitchen was lower. I had a contractor take out the arch and raise the ceiling and extend a peninsula into the living room 29.5". Add in the 6" thickness of the archway and I picked up almost 3'. I could fit a standard fridge and stove. Previously they had tiny appliances and almost no counter space. I wish I did a few things differently, like a counter depth refrigerator would have looked nicer. Also, a separate cook top and oven. I wasn't sure there was sufficient power to run an electric oven.

[@TheMoonSeesMe]

I’ve watched a lot of kitchen youtube channels and yours is off the better ones. Keep it up.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey!! Thanks so much. That is really appreciated.

[@edwardcasper5231]

In my small galley kitchen, counter space is at a premium. Not only that, but my home doesn't have a plethora (i.e., a lot) of outlets near the counters as it's an older building. I can add an outlet on one side, but that'll require tearing out some sheetrock (which is minor), fishing wire through the wall, drilling through a stud, and adding an outlet (a short extension cord/plug strip is a possible option on the other side of the kitchen). Another consideration is the position of the countertop microwave's door and how it swings. To optimize my space, I really would need a left-handed unit. The microwave's door gets in the way of the food traffic flow, and there's no space to put both a microwave and food down on either side of the stove. I could use a cart, but that would require added wiring and outlets or an extension cord. I use my microwave at least once every day, and I also use it as my main rice cooker (it's easier and more foolproof than using a saucepan), so having one is an issue. I'm not worried about the radiation as it's a fraction of what one gets from exposure to the normal environment. Radiation is all around us. But obviously, it's the *added* radiation that "breaks the camel's back", as it were, but I'm not using my microwave to cook two hours a day, either. One other factor that comes into play is that I live in the Phoenix, Arizona area. Since It's a hot climate, the HVAC ductwork is placed high, not low, as it is in colder climates (cold air falls, warm air rises). My stove is next to an interior wall, and the hood vents outside through the roof. My current vent hood only moves 200 cfm. The microwave I'm considering moves 400 cfm, twice as much. And some hoods I've seen with that rating cost more than the microwave/vent unit I'm considering. The least expensive 400 cfm hood vent I've seen costs over half as much as the relatively inexpensive microwave/vent combo I'm considering. So those aren't exactly cheap either. The cons in my case are ergonomic. One has to lift food into and out of an over the stove microwave, as the counter isn't conveniently located next to the unit. But that's going to be an issue In my kitchen no matter what I do, as there's extremely limited counter space on the cooking/storage side of my kitchen. The "antique" harvest gold range that was in my townhome when I bought it had a microwave/regular oven combination, but that, and most other parts of the unit, weren't working, so I replaced the thing.

[@Fairland3]

When we gutted and remodeled the kitchen, I didn’t want the microwave over the stove, and I differently didn’t want it on the counter! We built it in under the counter. I also didn’t want a hood over the stove, instead I put the hidden hood tucked behind a fitted piece of trim. Also No White Cabinets!!! We went with Black Cabinet. Black Granite counters. Handles are stainless long pulls and cement floor tiles with veining. The kitchen has a steakhouse vibe with Hexagon dark brown backsplash that wraps around the kitchen. We absolutely love it! Thank you for this informative video. You are a Pro! Let me know if there’s away to send you a picture!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thanks so much for watching. Although I like white cabinets, black looks so sharp and is becoming more and more popular. I'd love to see it. send a pic to [e-mail]

[@curtnobrain4024]

Personally I love the height and convenience of an over the range microwave. For most people the microwave is used 10 times more than any other appliance multiple times throughout the day it needs to be in a very very convenient spot in for me that’s above the range. In addition the microwave vent system can be vented outside just like a hood vent. It may not be as powerful as a hood vent but it’s probably enough to get the job done for most people. And there is a problem not having the microwave vented if you move it to the countertop or anywhere else because surely Using the microwave produces plenty of moisture and odors too. So now you’re just dumping all that microwave moisture and odors straight into your house not with no venting at all.

[@sinfulbeliever7083]

finally someone who agrees with me about these otr microwaves

[@Submarinatx]

Space is goat. What about furniture made to store the microwave away the working area beside the fridge? Would you still place it 3 foot tall?

[@emmanuelcasado]

It would be cool if you show pictures of every option you are sharing because people like me that are not native American can have some trouble figuring out what are you trying to communicate. Thanks for your videos, I think you're the best.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks for the input. I think it's time to remake this video, so I will definitely will add more visuals!

[@TxHoneyBee]

I agree with you on this! I'm under contract on a new build home, and by default, it comes with a range hood instead of the OTR microwave. If I want an OTR microwave, it's an added expense 'upgrade', and I really don't see the point at all. The OTR microwave doesn't work as well as a range hood. I love cooking filet mignon steaks and searing the heck out of my favorite meats. So I need a powerful hood. I don't want to pay for a cabinet that will just be used to hide the OTR microwave duct. Also, I lived in Europe for three years, and I never had a microwave. I prefer cooking my food from scratch or using the stovetop or oven to reheat. I barely use a microwave. I don't see the point in paying more for this 'upgrade'. Thanks for sharing this video!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey. Thanks for watching and commenting! Did you use induction while in Europe? I’ve heard reheating food on them is super fast.

[@milleniumraz]

This is so spot on! My mother did a full house a remodel and mindlessly went with an OTR microwave on a external wall that USED to have an external exhaust vent! Her contractor stupidly sealed up the old vent so now her new OTR microwave recirculates and spews greasy fumes upwards into the kitchen and all over her brand new custom cherry cabinets. The brand new kitchen ceiling now has a hazy grease spot forming from the damn microwave. Today My brother and I took down the OTR microwave to try and install an external vent straight out the back wall. Unfortunately, when we cut open the dry wall, we found a stud directly in our way with both electrical and propane attached to it with no slack for relocating them. Absolute nightmare. I could strangle her contractor. Would have been so easy to vent this thing outside when the walls were all torn apart during remodeling but he took the easy route. I’m seriously considering trashing her OTR microwave and relaxing with a powerful range hood that vents straight up into the attic and through the roof. The microwave typically only gets used for popcorn, cups of coffee, or a random plate of leftovers so most people really only need a small countertop unit tucked into a corner or a pantry. Great video that really struck a chord with me today!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Brett! Thanks for the comment. I was cringing reading it lol. So brutal. Appreciate you sharing. Take care!

[@mariemedeiros5672]

I want to get rid of mine. What do i do with cabinets

[@jaxandmore440]

Excellent video and I agree with all of your points. I loathe OTR microwaves. When I remodeled the kitchen in my previous home, I opted to stick with an inexpensive stainless cabinet-mounted range hood and countertop microwave, since I had plenty of counter space. I loved that setup. In my new home, they installed an OTR microwave due to limited counter space. I get the need in this case, but I hate it. When I'm cooking at the stove, I'm not comfortable with a microwave running in my face, for safety reasons. Also, the microwave died, so I'm forced to spend $300 on a new OTR microwave when a comparable countertop model would be about $75. Not to mention I'll be throwing out a perfectly functional range hood. Such a waste!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Yep, the OTR is the worst. It's unfortunate that they are still the go to solution for many people for above the range. I hate being around the microwave when it is running too. Thanks for the comment. Love your logo.

[@jaxandmore440]

​@@MTKDofficial Thanks! Keep pumping out great videos. I'm newly subscribed and you're teaching me a lot about kitchen design. Very useful info for a house flipper like myself.

[@robertknight4672]

My grandmother has an overhead microwave but she has the downdraft vent on her range.

[@MTKDofficial]

Oh, interesting combination. Downdrafts are quite nice. As long as they work. lol. Like anything I guess.

[@TwentyMinuteGuitarPlayer]

Wow I didn’t realize a microwave above like that was a bad idea!! Good to know!!

[@MTKDofficial]

They used to be all the rage. But not anymore. We are finally starting to see the light.

[@trimmr]

It's not a bad idea. A bad idea is the HUGE range hoods that everyone is putting in now days. For the once or twice a week the average person cooks on the range and needs an exhaust, let's hang a range hood the size of a small car above the 400 square foot range. Yup, that is a great idea.

[@thefuzzbutler]

so, out of curiosity, where does one put a microwave when renovating a very small (7.5x8.5 ft) L shaped kitchen if you want to also maximize counter-space and preserve storage? we only have one wall of upper cabinets thanks to the lovely big window over the sink and no room for an island. the current microwave is in a spot that will disappear when we move the stove 6” to gain some useable workspace on the other side. otr seems to be the only option.

[@MTKDofficial]

It's not always possible to get a way from the OTR. My suggestion is to try and make sure it's properly vented. As long as the kitchen is functional for you, it's all good.

[@thefuzzbutler]

@@MTKDofficial i’d love to know more about why the venting is so important. i’ve read about the various air quality issues from particulates and vocs from daily cooking, but i don’t actually know anyone who uses their vent hood unless they actually burn something. i don’t burn anything, but i use my (recirc) hood to keep moisture from fogging my window

[@MTKDofficial]

The main concern is about getting moisture out of the space. Recirculating will not accomplish this and it can become unhealthy. If there is good HVAC in the room, this will help combat that too.

[@petermulhall2564]

Your videos are awesome mark,thank you👍🏻

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Peter! Thanks so much for the kind comment. Very appreciated.

[@petermulhall2564]

@@MTKDofficial hi from Ireland,I'm.loving your videos mark👍🏻

[@MTKDofficial]

@@petermulhall2564 Ireland! Cool, my ancestral land! Thanks so much for watching.

[@petermulhall2564]

@@MTKDofficial I guessed that,I grew up with a Mrs Tobin just down the road👍🏻

[@carynvanwyk]

I am disabled so reaching above my head to get to a microwave is a no for me. My daughter is 35 years old and 4 feet 8 inches and she could not reach one that high either.

[@krehbein]

I have a small microwave in an open cabinet in the island. Out of the way, easy to see what’s going on in it, and these smaller ones are cheap. Just enough to heat up soup, meal, etc…

[@furstenfeldbruck]

I live in an old apartment with no air vent in the kitchen and I always wondered why anyone would put a microwave above the stove. A pot of boiling water would destroy it. I never knew there could be a vent under the microwave

[@goodwolf866]

Perfect timing. I've been going back and forth about this option. Now I am further convinced that I don't want this over the range.

[@Ryan-re1rs]

Yeah. But getting that counter space back is amazing and well worth hanging it up. I see zero reason to have this on the counter at all. I've seen people hang them up over a counter and have seen cut outs for them too.

[@goodwolf866]

@@Ryan-re1rs those are some good ideas. I'm so pressed for space in my design I was thinking of a rolling cart for the microwave with butcher block top for extra prep space. Kitchen too small for an island I'm afraid.

[@adamliny15]

If you primarily cook with one element is the CFM a big deal?

[@MTKDofficial]

That depends. But a little is better than none.

[@robinq5511]

I am considering some remodeling ideas for my kitchen which was mainly to add a tile backsplash & repaint. But I realized I do have space for a smaller microwave where I now have a toaster oven I NEVER use. And since the vent cabinet is already plumbed over the stove - getting rid of the OTR microwave now sounds doable and gives me more decor options for the wall behind the stove. Funny how you can change someone's mind...Thanks.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Robin! Glad I could help. lol.

[@pamlano634]

I now officially feel smart that my most recent kitchen plan includes a microwave shelf instead of an OTR micro. :-)

[@MTKDofficial]

Yes!! Very smart, lol.

[@D_Syno]

If it's still over-the-counter, what's the difference?

[@michaellocher1530]

I really like the 12x24 inch under cabinet microwave from GE (NOT OTR). No one I know of is cooking in a microwave anymore...so a smaller form factor is perfect if all you are doing is heating up a plate of leftovers.

[@tjmoore1084]

whats your thought on a microwave above a wall oven?

[@MTKDofficial]

I don't mind that as much, because you are not reaching over a stove and normally they can be installed a little lower. I put these in a lot actually.

[@gatorwoman71-the-real-one]

Honestly, I was surprised how snarky this video was. Not all of us have enough countertop or cabinet space for any design options other than OTR. Right now, my microwave is in an awkward spot in my dining room because there is no space for it in the kitchen. I'm willing to take my chances on radiation in order to have the convenience of a microwave. While I appreciate that your design alternatives are probably beautiful, they're completely useless in my little kitchen. If I were to hire a designer, I would find someone with more empathy for what it's like not to have a lot of space options.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Ginger. Sorry you found the tone snarky. I understand the limitations of many spaces and when appropriate, the OTR is a viable option. Hopefully a vented one. Thanks for watching and taking the time to call me out.

[@Cyberdine.Systems.Model-101]

Stop being so sensitive. I'm sure he doesn't walk into clients homes and insult them for having small kitchen spaces. He's simply stating that he personally doesn't like OTR microwaves! Isn't anybody allowed to state that they dislike something anymore without offending the Karen's of the world? Newsflash: he wasn't personally attacking you.

[@joemanzo4453]

⁠@@Cyberdine.Systems.Model-101 totally agree! Geez! We are allowed to have our own opinions!

[@traciemcbeth6866]

Loving your videos! I advise friends and realtors to open the dishwasher and pretend to put your dishes away. If you have to off load to a countertop first and then to a cabinet . . . not a good design. For seniors, and I qualify as one, don’t lift anything heavier than a coffee mug. I love drawers instead of cabinets under the countertops in new builds. Dishes are convenient in a middle drawer,using a peg board to hold them in place.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Tracie! Thanks for the comment. That sounds like really good advice, thanks for the input!!

[@cobbles62]

It's greasing up it's insides. That is the biggest negative I have with OTR microwaves. Where a normal range hood has a nice clean short channel that gets rid of the greasy cooking vapors as quickly as possible, an OTR microwave has narrow ventilation channels left and right and all around, running wherever the designer saw some space left, without much consideration of bad aerodynamics or grease deposition. Those little filters can do only so much in holding back the grease before you can find it everwhere inside the machine. I think the only reason why we don't see a lot of kitchen fires start by an OTR microwave is because those things typically last only a few years until they get swapped out by a new clean one.

[@ravenstarver1360]

I still dont really see your problem with them. When you consider the space would be used by a range hood instead with similar vents taking up cabinet space, and since when is counterspace so abundant that you wouldn't want the microwave off of it?

[@Racontact]

That's the thing they don't really work well as vents though but ventilation is a primary necessity for a kitchen and the one place where a ton of air pollutants originate you should have maximum CFM pulling that stuff out of your house a microwave however can really be placed anywhere so why would you try to put it in the one spot that is the most crucial

[@modernarchive7502]

An OTR oven lets you get rid of your range. I've been using a convection/microwave in convection for all my baking for the last 5 months. I had been using a gas range. I find this hard to believe but my power bill hasn't increased. If I can get used to a two-burner portable induction cooktop I might replace the gas range with a 30" base cabinet and continue the tiled countertop across the top of it. That sounds like bliss.

[@MTKDofficial]

Ha. Awesome! Or build the induction cooktop into the surface (porcelain) so you have the best of both worlds. Invisible cooking surface and countertop.

[@katjafranczek7714]

Still don't understand why no one addresses what to do with the step stool required to safely reach the contents in the otr. I just bought a brand new builder grade house. Of course I brought and use my trusty countertop. 3 weeks later, I decided to give in and try the vent. It starts at High. Why but okay just hit it twice to be able to carry on a conversation. Even on high it doesn't draw a tissue held under either vent. Oh wait there are no filters installed. Hmm why is there no manual or filters for the otr? Best guess is the installer couldn't get it to work either. Glad to hear I'm not the only one to find venting back into the room ludicrous.

[@MTKDofficial]

Yah, that thing needs to go.

[@TheDecoCottage]

My gripe with countertop microwaves is that they take up counter space. It is a big deal for people who have very little counter space.

[@MTKDofficial]

Agreed. The best place for a microwave is in a yard sale. lol

[@D_Syno]

Apparently getting rid of everything, including the house, is the solution.

[@jasonmims5057]

Ok this was shocking to me that over the range microwaves are hated but then i did some thinking and ive come to this conclusion (my opinion) i think over the range microwaves have been a design trend for so long that people are just bored with them now. I had a countertop microwave growing up so i always thought the over the range microwave looked neat and i was happy when the condo i bought came with one but my kitchen is pretty small so its saves counter space. I do see a potential downside that if the microwave stopped working it would be a more expensive fix than a countertop one. But i like my over the range microwave.

[@jchesney2535]

I dislike cleaning them. Mine broke. I didn't buy another one and currently don't use one. Should I get one? The only thing I used one for was reheating my second cup of coffee, which I never finish anyway.

[@MTKDofficial]

Not worth it for a cup of coffee. Get one of those Ember mugs that heat it for you.

[@jchesney2535]

@@MTKDofficial Great idea! It's less expensive than a microwave. The money can go somewhere else. Did I say how much I've always hated cleaning microwaves? The food sold in the grocery stores for microwaves is awful, too. It never occurred to me how little I used it and really don't need it! I've gotten rid of my microwave, iron, and coffee machine that uses the K-cups, too. I'm re-thinking the dishwasher, now. Some dishwashers are pull-outs inside of drawers, so you can buy a small one just for plates and bowls and wash the pots and pans by hand. My sister and her husband don't use their dishwasher at all anymore. They wash all their dishes by hand. Handwashing is good for one or two people, not families.

[@barbsdee3831]

I had to watch this to find out what OTR meant. Here in the uk we don’t often have this location and it’s usually built in above the built in oven in the same cupboard, if you know what I mean 🇬🇧

[@MTKDofficial]

The best kitchen ideas usually do come from Europe in general, so I don't know how this one slipped through the cracks. lol

[@sylviawolff433]

So what do we do if we have an above range microwave?

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Sylvia. No worries. Most people do, in fact I had one for years. It was fine, just not something I would consider again. It's hard to get rid of and replace with a vent hood, because there is no other space in the kitchen dedicated to the microwave. So unless you are also converting another cabinet to house a microwave, just stick with what you have. As long as you find it functional and it works for your kitchen, it's all good.

[@RyanBissell]

4:20 microwaves are not ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation would crack water into H and HO radicals. All microwaves can do is boil water. Hence, not ionizing. EDIT: I was in such a hurry to correct someone who was "wrong on the internet", that I didn't read the pinned comment. Thanks for correcting.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! No worries! Thanks for the comment. I always try to correct myself (or try not to talk about stuff I know nothing about anymore. Like ionizing radiation .lol.)

[@planesandbikes7353]

Strongly disagree about the height for a microwave. I recently removed my OTS microwave/fan unit and plopped a countertop unit on my countertop. Yes the OTS unit was getting caked in grease, and also I found they only lasted about 5 years. But the height was about perfect. My countertop one is difficult for me to use being so low down. I can't read the screen well and button labels forget it. I can't see what's going on inside as I am looking through the roof of the thing. The ideal is a countertop microwave in an upper cabinet meant for it. But upon planning for my upcoming kitchen remodel I noticed that IKEA no longer sells such an open-shelf upper cabinet for microwaves, they steer you into one of their built in units I do not trust. Thus I may go for HD Eurostyle kitchen cabinets instead (canada). Also Microwave radiation is NOT ionizing radiation, it's like trying to hear the kick drum from a 1/2 inch tweeter, a completely different range on the spectrum.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thank. I pinned a correction on the radiation a while back. thanks, Not sure why IKEA doesn't add a microwave wall cabinet into their sku's. The ideal height for a microwave is in a base cabinet with an oven door style microwave. That way you don't have to look at an ugly microwave in a wall cabinet or over a range. Appreciate the comment. Thumbs up for Eurostyle!!

[@vociferonheraldofthewinter2284]

I see that many people love their OTR microwave, but when designing a kitchen, we want to try to make it for as many people as possible. I'm really short. For an OTR mic to be at a height where I can reach it, it's going to be in my husband's face when he's cooking eggs. People often don't realize that short people have short *everything*. It's not just height. Our little arms are short too. For me to reach up AND back, I lose a LOT of access. The items on the second shelf of my upper cabinets may as well be on Mars, but the same height shelves in my pantry are doable because I can stand directly in front of them. The stove keeps me about 28 inches away from the wall, so that means the microwave interior is even less accessible. And I'm the one who has to clean the damn thing. I refuse to have to drag out a step stool and a bucket every time I have to wipe spots off my microwave ceiling or back wall in my own damn house. Seriously, how would you feel if your 11 year old were reaching UP above their head-level to get a bowl of super hot soup soup? So don't do this to little wives. And as I said, *to get it low enough for a short woman to safely and effectively use, now YOU'RE cooking with a microwave directly in your face*. Nobody wants that. And no. I'm not a dwarf. 5'1" is still within the 'normal' range for a human woman, dammit. I'm actually the second tallest woman in my family. (Yes, at the reunions I do feel like a god.) We are a wee people, but mighty.

[@MTKDofficial]

Little wives unite!!! Appreciate your input!

[@dianeleone1634]

I've inherited our parents home. Built in the 1950's, the Wall Oven & cook top are next to each other. About mid 1980's, mom wanted a microwave. Best location was above the Wall Oven, as there is only one small counter next to the sink ..OK, the gas oven had to go byebye, reconfigure the cupboard above & drawers underneath.. Purrrrrfect until 2013, the microwave died..

[@georgemohr7532]

Very informative. Do you have an opinion to share on over the range hood "vents" that are not vented to the outside? Venting a range hood in a coop is (from my personal experience) not allowed. We are considering Ikea's 'ventless' range hood as we plan our kitchen remodel.

[@MTKDofficial]

Good question. I’ve had both. I would never go back to a ventless system. They are just recycling air through a charcoal filter, that often never gets replaced and really doesn’t do that much anyways. Plus the moisture has no where to go. It would have to be the absolute only possibility if I were to do it again. So if you can, when planning a remodel, try and get it vented out. I’m not familiar with the quality off the IKEA hood. However it really comes down to the quality of the filters.

[@georgemohr7532]

@@MTKDofficial No possibility of venting to the outside....it's coop and reno rules are long and strict. I will have to research which hood has the best filters.

[@MTKDofficial]

@@georgemohr7532 ok, well if you can find a Broan or Venmar, that would be good. And get extra filters just to be safe.

[@georgemohr7532]

@@MTKDofficial any advice on corner sinks....maybe a video?

[@MTKDofficial]

@@georgemohr7532 haha. definitely maybe a video. btw I am using your info about the small quartz sizes in my next video. 👍🏼

[@mindthrower8772]

I recently rented an apartment and there's a microwave over the range. Let me tell you how it looks like. First it's covered with a grease everywhere. I took of the upper "ventilation" and it's greasy as hell inside. All electrical components and wires are dirty. It's not safe, because one spark and it will cause immediate fire in milliseconds. In the stove manual it's written that should be at least 76cm space over the cooking area. There's 40cm. All the steam goes directly to microwave. It's a horrible decision to put a microwave like that. It's dangerous in all aspects.

[@williamsjc12]

Was literally going to hire a contractor to replace my hood with a microwave hood combo... But then realized... WHY? 😂 I think OTR microwaves are popular in apartment to save space. We're going with a shelf. Thanks for afriming our thoughts!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey. Awesome to hear it helped! You made the right choice lol.

[@D_Syno]

A shelf and OTR microwave are practically the same thing, so what's the difference?

[@JamieM470]

The main thing I didn't like about my OTR microwave was it made my stovetop look like a dark cubby, unless the light under the microwave was left on all the time. When I replaced it with a range hood, it was amazing how much that opened up the space. So much room over the burners now, and natural light can enter that space; it doesn't look like a small dark cubby anymore. Do I have claustrophobia issues? Maybe. But I just really enjoy the light, open space above the stove top now, in addition to better ventilation.

[@billybudd9236]

LIked the video. It makes a lot of sense. One thing. Microwaves are radiation, but not "Ionizing". Microwaves are not completely benign, but they are not ionizing. Thanks!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thanks, appreciate the input.

[@Chewychaca]

1:04 the anti-hero we needed 😮

[@catherinebullock9748]

I like my microwave over an electric stove. Granted I vent them outside, recirculating smoke and grease aren't desirable. I also plan to replace them every 10 years for safety reasons, don't stand in front of them when in use, and use potholders. We had an island drawer top access one and hated it. Could not walk past the thing without turning it on and the grandchildren thought it was a toy. I have four kitchens and my favorite microwave is a corner countertop model that is undersized I think 700 watts. It looks like a small space-age TV. It reheats beverages, melts butter, and does anything I ask of the other microwaves. I think the key here is to understand your needs and pick the appropriate appliance. Example: Many people want a gas range that requires more ventilation per code than electric. I've been told that many gas ranges only burn at 70% efficiency. I prefer to cook high heat/smoke foods in a cast-iron skillet on my gas grill outside on the deck. That said my favorite kitchen has a bunch of open shelves, and we all know that's not for everyone! Good kitchen design requires the owner to be thoughtful about their cooking needs and give up on the fantasy self TV version.

[@MTKDofficial]

Excellent point on how it's so important for the owner to lead the way. They know best how they use the space, even if it is OTR's and open shelves. lol I appreciate the comment and glad you have it vented outside!!

[@reptilesgamers00]

I say they're a fine alternative if you're dealing with a rental, you have limited space, or the microwave is going to be mounted on a wall that's not outside. If you purchase your forever home, then hopefully you have the square footage and the means the design of proper kitchen. Get a range hood

[@MTKDofficial]

For sure! A rental property is would fit the OTR well. Saves space and probably a pretty standard unit to have.

[@aron8949]

Dumbest idea ever, mine just blows all the smoke right in to the kitchen, it is pointless. All the smoke alarms go off and all the windows have to be wide open to cook.

[@LudmilaT.]

It's as simple as putting the microwave spot under a different cabinet instead of the one above the oven. America is seriously weird.

[@MTKDofficial]

Totally!

[@sohappytogether88]

Here in southamerica you never ever find otr microwave, it is so weird to me when I see it in USA kitchens, .. I thought: «how the kids would use it? Isnt it completly unsafe? What about ventilation Isnt all greasy for the cooking in the stove?» Now I see I was right 😆

[@MTKDofficial]

Very right! haha. I also have heard the UK and Australia and probably everywhere else doesn't have them either. So I don't know what we were thinking?

[@os2baba]

Can't agree with this AT ALL. It's not so black and white. There is nothing wrong with an OTR microwave if ventilated outside. It saves the cost of the dedicated vent hood and saves counter top space. And it's at the right height. The one I have ordered is 550 cfm. A vent hood can indeed be required if the cfm of the microwave is not good. If the microwave is successful in getting the smell out, then the OTR microwave is the way to go. That should be the driving decision along with counterspace. Not the specious argument you are putting forth.

[@amyl363]

The countertop in the corner is made for the microwave. . . . I don't have anything else I'd want to shove back in that corner, so "taking up space on the counter" is really not an issue. Definitely don't want to be pulling hot foods out of the microwave at eye level, which is where those over-the-range microwaves would leave me.

[@ginasparks5756]

What about one that comes with an oven? I’ve been looking at those? Now, you know, you’re my go-to-guy..lol so, yay or nay?

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Gina. Thanks. Lol. Ones that come with an oven? Do you mean an oven with a microwave in a pantry cabinet? If that’s what you mean, I’m all for it because you’re not reaching over a stove and you have more say in the height it is placed. So it’s a yay! If that’s what you mean 😬

[@ginasparks5756]

@@MTKDofficial yes, over the oven. They come together.

[@ginasparks5756]

@@MTKDofficial thanks greatly for your help! You’re awesome 🤓

[@cabinetmaker9180]

The biggest reason for not having a microwave/ hoodfan over the stove is how ugly they look. There is way more better options to install a custom hood, chimney style or canopy type hood.

[@MTKDofficial]

Well, that could be the whole video right there! Appreciate the comment!

[@thatsgr8]

My reasons for not liking OTR microwave: 1. It's ugly 2. Loud 3. Less efficient than range hood 4. Dual function appliances are unreliable and more likely to need to buy another microwave in the future

[@MTKDofficial]

100% Agree!!

[@gingersnap1568]

I think the best location for a microwave is the dumpster. And that is my number on favorite kitchen reno project that anyone can do. It doesn't cost anything, you reclaim counter space, there is no waiting period, no 'when will this project be done', no cleaning it, no radiation. It the best thing I ever did and I don't miss it one bit.

[@Irishrebel092]

theres no radiation from having a microwave either. amount of radiation from a tanning bed is more than from a microwave.

[@theistrix8675]

This is just silly hipster madness. The microwave is an incredible kitchen tool when used properly.

[@LifelineStreaming]

This was great. I hate OTR Microwaves. Ugly. Space eating. Monsters

[@MTKDofficial]

Ha. Exactly! Glad you enjoyed it. !!

[@stefang2014]

This is such a personal (and technical) matter. OTR microwaves are... simply put... most practical and efficient setup with the least amount of hassle and cost of putting it in. Power supply is already in place. Whereas with range hoods, ducting will be an issue for the vast majority of kitchens. It's pointless having range hood that isn't ducted to the outside. And from aesthetics point of view, I find range hoods against walls and/or kitchens with 8ft ceilings to look out of place. Best and most practical set up for those is tall ceilings and over island cooktops - that's beauty, functionality w/o sacrificing cabinet space, easy and practical to source power and room for ducting.

[@MTKDofficial]

Let's agree to disagree! lol. Thanks for watching.

[@keith4886]

It's a bad idea. It saves space & that is all. Microwaves over the range collect so much crap & grease you would not believe it. I had one installed over the range sometime ago & I would never do it again. Microwaves don't belong over a range. A stupid idea.

[@imabird1566]

So it’s a spork, basically

[@rosezingleman5007]

How did I miss this video? You know Mark, a kick plate microwave sounds good to me. Anyway I’m going to stick a regular counter microwave into the new wall slot above the regular oven.

[@montelongopc]

I'm viewer #500 :D

[@MTKDofficial]

Sweet!!!! Thanks.

[@gewurztramina]

I am very comfortable with allowable amounts of ionizing radiation from a regular microwave. There’s always natural radiation from other sources, like cosmic rays. As long as the intensity is low, it’s ok.

[@MTKDofficial]

I don't know Christina, something that interrupts my wifi, kind of freaks me out. lol

[@tomsgamer985]

Here's an idea ... just use your stove to heat things up.

[@harveypaxton1232]

You are so hypocritical. You advocate for under-counter microwaves which are very dangerous, and the over the oven microwave that's same as over range. What the the hell?

[@Djynni]

My Pro: I hate to waste the space with just a hood. Having the microwave in that spot means the microwave isn't taking up some other spot.

[@MTKDofficial]

I suppose if the kitchen is very small, but in most cases, I would never recommend this.

[@theistrix8675]

OTR is garbage. Literally hot garbage. I guess if you cook maybe once a month its fine, but go into any restaurant / professional kitchen you'll never ever see this setup. Why? Its bad. Why would you want hot things at head level? Why would you want it over another hot surface? Why would you not want a proper hood? Absolutely worthless if you ever want to use your kitchen.

[@nikolarajkovic3558]

Microwaves don't produce ionizing radiation.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks! yeah I have already corrected myself.

[@nikolarajkovic3558]

@@MTKDofficial My bad, I didn't see the pinned comment. Good job on the video :)

[@johnsok0]

You a microwave elitist. :-) Glad you have adequate counter space, the older galley style kitchens do not.

[@MTKDofficial]

Haha. Good way to put it. Thanks for the comment Kate.

[@dms_bro_]

Microwaves are non-ionizing radiation

[@MTKDofficial]

Yeah, I made a note of that in the pinned comment a while back. Thanks.

[@cameronharris2862]

lol. What a joke. You get more radiation from sunlight and literally from granite that’s all around you if you live in the Rockies

[@MTKDofficial]

You do know I corrected myself right?

[@duke792]

Good grief, dude… you sound too aggravated for something so basic.

[@MTKDofficial]

Got you to comment though!!

[@duke792]

@@MTKDofficial you’re proud of getting negative comments?

[@RisoSystems]

OK, so I get your point about the ventilation usually not being so good. Fair enough. But some of the stuff that comes out of your mouth is SO off base.... MICROWAVE RADIATION IS NOT IONIZING RADATION. That's one. Check it out. As far as it being safer - well, it gets the controls out of the reach of most children. That's not a bad thing. And if you have an older kitchen with limited counter space, saving some is pretty important. But the ionizing thing and the whole scare about "radiation" is just uninformed. Talk to a physicist. Or maybe just READ. Good grief. Your credibility is sliding, Mark.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks! Sorry I touched a nerve. Appreciate the comment.

[@sebastienquirion3257]

@@MTKDofficial you really should at the very least make a correction on that in the video description. Spreading misinformation like that is not helping anyone.

[@MTKDofficial]

@@sebastienquirion3257 Thanks, I pinned a comment and linked to and article talking about it from the FDA.

[@jcmoye1]

Too much taking and not enough showing options of where to put it.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks John. This is a commentary on OTR specifically and not microwaves in general. So, another video should be made on the placement of microwaves as it pertains to functionality in the kitchen. Have a great day!!

[@OnMyFingerTips]

Wish my house had an outdoor vent above the range…

[@tomyri1946]

I am remodeling a small kitchen in my new house so this was interesting, but I need to say that microwaves are NOT ionizing radiation! Please take a look at this electrometric spectrum illustration by NASA. imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/science/toolbox/emspectrum1.html You can see microwaves fall between AM radio and visible light, which means they are longer wavelength, but lower energy. Ionizing radiation (radiation that is powerful enough to knock an electron out of orbit) doesn't happen until you hit the higher end of the UV spectrum, which are much higher energy wavelengths.

[@MTKDofficial]

OH cool. Thanks for sharing that. Good info!