What is an over-the-range microwave?

An over-the-range microwave is a food heating appliance and cooker that is mounted above the range or stove cook top. An over-the-range microwave mounted above the range includes a ventilation system that replaces the typical range hood found above a cook top.

Over-the-range microwaves are mounted to a wall or underneath a cabinet adjacent or above the range top. The ventilation system to circulate air, steam and smoke from the range is hidden underneath the microwave's base. These microwaves serve the same function as counter top microwaves and have the capacity to reheat and cook food quickly, even while simultaneously using the range.