The bottom of an over-the-range microwave typically needs to be 18 to 30 inches above the cooking surface of a gas stove.
For an over-the-range microwave above a gas stove, the standard vertical clearance is 18 to 30 inches between the stove's cooking surface and the bottom of the microwave. Most manufacturers require a minimum of 30 inches of space to combustible materials or metal cabinets, meaning the absolute bottom of the microwave must clear this threshold.
To install an over-the-range (OTR) microwave above a gas stove, you must strictly follow manufacturer instructions and meet national safety codes:
"Check specs for the cooktop and hood. They will tell you the dimensions recommended for clearance." "Household cooking appliances shall have a vertical clearance above the cooking top of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) to combustible material or metal cabinets."
The minimum distance is typically 18”; some professional style ranges require 30” Also to be considered is the recommendation that the bottom of your microwave be no more than 54” above the floor. Go to your state building codes for the right answer.
All current Over-the-Range microwaves, Advantium ovens, and vent hoods, can be installed over gas ranges and cooktops* with a combined surface burner BTU rating of approximately 65,000 BTUs or less.
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For an over-the-range (OTR) microwave, you should leave 18 to 30 inches of vertical clearance between the top of your stove's cooking surface and the bottom of the microwave. The industry standard for most kitchens is 18 to 20 inches, which provides ample room to stir large pots without bumping your head.
The standard required clearance above a gas range is a minimum of 30 inches from the top of the cooking surface to the bottom of unprotected combustible materials (like standard wood cabinets).
Solution. Yes. All of our over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are certified by Underwriters Laboratories for use over a gas range.
National building and fire codes (like the IRC) require a minimum 30-inch vertical clearance between the top of your cooking surface and any unprotected combustible materials, such as standard wood cabinets. However, specific installation clearances vary depending on the model.
People are ditching their microwaves to reclaim counter space, upgrade food quality, and embrace holistic lifestyles. Modern alternatives like air fryers and toaster ovens, coupled with a shift toward intentional cooking, have made microwaves feel obsolete.
What is the Code for Installing a Microwave Above a Stove? The NEC (National Electrical Code) requires that OTR microwaves have a dedicated 15- or 20-amp circuit and a clearance of at least 30 inches above the cooktop (some local codes may differ).
The hood above a gas stove is best suited for ventilation, so installing a microwave would block its airflow. However, it is safe to put a microwave above a gas stove if the distance between both appliances is at least 30 inches to prevent appliance damage and ensure safety.
Yes, a gas stove can absolutely make you dizzy. This is typically caused by poor ventilation or a malfunctioning appliance, which can lead to indoor air pollution, a gas leak, or dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) buildup.
The "best" microwave depends on your cooking style and budget. Panasonic is the top pick for overall heating performance due to its true inverter technology. For budget-friendly countertop models, Toshiba and Farberware lead, while Breville dominates the premium multi-function (air fry/convection) market.
For an over-the-range microwave above a gas stove, maintain a minimum of 30 inches of vertical clearance from the top of the cooking grate to the bottom of the upper cabinet (or the microwave's top frame). This typically provides about 18 to 20 inches of usable space between the stovetop and the bottom of the microwave.
Why is California Phasing Out Gas Appliances? California regulators, especially the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD), are enforcing rules to phase out gas appliances to reduce harmful pollutants called nitrogen oxides (NOₓ).
The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that the bottom of the microwave should be no higher than 54 inches above the floor, which would allow for 18 inches of clearance between the microwave and the typical cooktop height of 36 inches. Some manufacturers allow smaller clearances.
Clearances are required to limit the probability that heat radiating from a cooktop or from open fire will ignite nearby combustible materials which could lead to the spread of fire. The minimum clearance required directly above the cooktop is 750 mm (30") to combustibles.
Yes, you can install a microwave over a gas stove, provided it is an Over-The-Range (OTR) microwave specifically designed for this purpose. You must ensure it is installed with the manufacturer-recommended clearance (typically at least 30 inches between the cooktop and the bottom of the microwave) to avoid fire hazards and heat damage.
Over-the-range microwaves
Interior space usually ranges from 0.8 cubic feet for compact microwaves up to 2.1 cubic feet for full-sized models. Widths will usually be roughly 30" to match the standard width of the range below and the standard cabinet width where the microwave will be mounted.
Capacity is around 1.1 cubic feet of space, a little smaller than a standard over-the-range microwave, but still large enough to fit regular-sized dishes. Width is the same as a standard over-the-range microwave, roughly 30 inches to match the width of the oven below.