If you have an over the range microwave, it is more than just a microwave. As it sits over your stove, it also functions as a hood vent. Unfortunately, it isn’t just smoke and exhaust that rise up into this vent in your microwave, it is also grease particles. To protect the appliance and the vent, your over the range microwave is equipped with a grease filter. If you have taken a peek at the underside of your microwave and found that it is looking extra greasy, it is time to replace it.
If you notice physical grease, the vent is no longer venting smoke, or you have a bad smell coming from the microwave, it is time to replace the grease vent. Luckily, as it needs to be done regularly, replacing the grease filter isn’t hard.
In most over the range microwave models, the grease filter may just slide right out. Place your fingers on it and move it to either the right or the left. If it slides, then it will slide out. It is worth noting that if the microwave fan is on, it may cause some suction that may prevent the filter from moving.
Once the filter is removed, it is best to replace it with a new filter rather than trying to fruitlessly degrease the old one. Once the filter is out, it is also a great time to clean the area around it and behind it. If any grease has gotten through the filter, you will need to scrub it off the vent and the fan blades. Cleaning thoroughly before inserting a new filter will ensure that the bad smells are fully removed and prevent the new filter from clogging as quickly.
While replacing a microwave filter is fairly simple, there are other repairs that can get very complicated, very quickly. If you need help, contact us today to see what Central Valley Appliance Repair can do to help.