An over-the-range microwave can have two kinds of filter, and they are handled differently. Whirlpool publishes steps for washing the grease filter on the underside. GE publishes steps for replacing the charcoal filter behind the vent grille. Which one you have depends on your model, so check your manual. Whirlpool says to clean the grease filter monthly or as prompted by the filter status indicator.
Steps, by source
Whirlpool: the grease filter
Removes, washes and reinstalls the grease filter on the underside of an over-the-range microwave. Source: Whirlpool: Clean the over-the-range microwave grease filter.
- Clean the grease filter (on the underside of the microwave) with mild soap and water.
- Most grease filters can go in the dishwasher for additional cleaning, but check your Owner's Manual first.
- To remove the filter: slide it away from the tab area and drop it out.
- To reinstall: place the end of the filter into the opening opposite the tab area, swing up the other end, and slide it toward the tab area.
What the source lists: Mild soap and water.
From the source. Most grease filters can be placed in the dishwasher for additional cleaning, but we recommend verifying in the Owner's Manual.
How often, according to Whirlpool: Clean monthly or as prompted by filter status indicator.
GE: the charcoal filter
Replaces the charcoal filter behind the vent grille on microwaves with the grille above the door. Source: GE Appliances: Replace the microwave charcoal filter.
- Disconnect power at the main fuse/circuit breaker, or unplug the microwave.
- Remove the screws (two or three); depending on the model, they are on top of the microwave near the front or between the louvers on the grille.
- Pull the grille away from the microwave.
- Remove the old filter and insert the new filter.
- Replace the grille on the microwave.
- Replace the screws.
What the source lists: Replacement charcoal filter for your model (listed in each model's product specifications or Installation Instructions).
From the source. Charcoal filters are model specific, so it is important to replace the correct charcoal filter for your specific model.
From the source. The filter can be smaller than the filter compartment, and may not cover the entire vent opening. This is normal.
Questions
How often should I clean the microwave grease filter?
Whirlpool says to clean it monthly or as prompted by the filter status indicator.
Can the grease filter go in the dishwasher?
Whirlpool says most grease filters can be placed in the dishwasher for additional cleaning, but recommends verifying in the Owner's Manual.
How do I get the grease filter out?
Whirlpool says to slide it away from the tab area and drop it out.
Does the charcoal filter have to match my microwave?
GE says charcoal filters are model specific, so it is important to replace the correct charcoal filter for your specific model.
My new charcoal filter looks too small. Is that normal?
GE says the filter can be smaller than the filter compartment and may not cover the entire vent opening, and that this is normal.
Models vary, check your manual. These steps come from the sources linked above and HouseHack doesn't verify them. Follow your appliance's manual and safety labels.
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