Do not install within a closed cabinet or a cut-out space where the bottom is covered. These can be installed under a cabinet, even if there is not a cooking surface underneath the appliance. However, the height clearances outlined in the Installation Instructions must still be met.
Built-in microwaves are similar to over-the-range microwaves, except that they don't sit above the oven, and they do not replace a range hood. Instead, built-in microwaves can be placed on an island or mounted on a wall or cabinet. They allow you to save counter space and keep the range hood as your ventilation system.
There is no requirement that your Over The Range (OTR) Microwave be vented to the outdoors. All OTR microwave ovens can be set up to either allow the fan to recirculate the air back into the kitchen or be vented to the outdoors.
Countertop models can be tucked into a shelf or opening in the cabinetry for a built-in look. This allows you to move the microwave off the work surface. For safety, it's best to find a location that offers landing space below. The more tightly the microwave fits into the space, the more streamlined it looks.
You can hide your microwave by stashing it behind other doors or on top of shelves, situating it under your counters, or modifying your kitchen to accommodate the appliance.
3" of clearance on both sides and the top. 1" clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3" or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping. If located on the counter near a range, we recommend locating it at least 2 ft away.
Over-the-Range microwaves have a cooktop light underneath to help you better see the food you're cooking on the cooktop surface below.
From countertop to built-in
You can install the microwave into your cabinetry alone, or above a wall oven. Built-in installation with a trim kit maximizes counter space and achieves a custom, seamless look for your kitchen.
Yes, microwave ovens need ventilation. However, the venting needs differ according to the model and design. Proper clearance and ventilation are necessary for efficient operation and safety reasons. Adequate external ventilation is a must for microwave ovens without built-in ventilation systems.
A 12 inch deep microwave might be just right. A 12-inch depth microwave is designed to fit inside kitchen cabinets, and it also has the right depth for a correct over-the-range installation.
WHAT IS AN OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVE? Over-the-range microwaves, also called built-in microwaves, are installed above a range or cooktop. They provide kitchen venting and air circulation, as well as overhead lighting.
Over-the-range microwaves (also called OTR microwaves) are great space-savers, but note that in general they do not vent quite as well as a stand-alone hood. The OTR also takes up most of the space above your stove so it's hard to have a special tile feature right above your range.
Microwave sizes are fairly standardized with most over-the-range microwaves measuring around 30" wide, 17" high and 15" to 18" deep with the door closed. Built-in microwave sizes also tend to match standard cabinet dimensions.
They do a better job of extracting toxins and smoke (although not at the same level as a range hood). A vented option will remove these fumes and vent them to the exterior of your home. A recirculating OTR microwave uses charcoal filters to neutralize air before it is pumped back into your kitchen.
The thing is if you don't have a lot of room in the kitchen, is it possible to put a microwave in a cupboard? The simple answer is yes. It can fit just fine, like a built-in oven. However, this must be done with caution to avoid any difficulties because of the enclosed space.
A microwave oven, designed exclusively for a kitchen countertop, has vents that are built into the back of microwave. If installed into a cabinet, these vents will be blocked and unable to release steam from the microwave,. Talk about a fire hazard for your kitchen.
Hold a microwave bracket up against the wall so that it rests on a single stud, taking care to do the same with the second stud. You can then attach the wall brackets to the wall studs and place the microwave on the two brackets to attach.
You can put a countertop microwave in the cabinet, but you must do so cautiously. This is because installing a microwave in a cabinet puts the device in an enclosed space, which can cause some complications. Therefore, it is vital to know the proper way of installing the appliance before actually doing it.
While over-the-range microwaves have been stylish for years, the trend is on the way out in 2018.
$125 – $500 Installed
The labor cost to install a microwave above the stove is $125 to $500 plus the cost of the microwave oven. When the cost of the microwave unit is added, the total project cost ranges from $300 to $1,100. Custom cabinet work, adding an outlet and replacing the vent hood are extra costs.
Examine the countertop microwave to locate all vents on the two sides, top and back panels. Since a countertop microwave is designed to rest on a countertop, the vents are often placed on the sides or top to ensure the vents have proper air space to clean out dust and expel hot air during operation.