The height of an undermount microwave can vary depending on the specific model, but the average is around 16-17 inches in height. The width will also vary but is typically around 30 inches and the depth is usually between 13 and 15 inches.
This type of microwave fits under a kitchen counter and typically includes features such as LCD displays, programmable buttons, and a stainless steel finish. It is important to check the measurements of the microwave against any cabinets and countertops before purchasing to ensure it will fit correctly.
What height should a microwave be installed?
Ideally, a microwave should be installed at a height of about 54-57 inches from the floor to the bottom of the microwave. This ensures that the height is comfortable for accessing food from the microwave and that you have a safe working height for your appliance.
It is recommended that the microwave should also be installed below eye level to avoid eye strain from prolonged use. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the microwave is placed away from any gas appliances and mounted on a sturdy, properly rated wall bracket for safety.
Can you mount a microwave under a 12 inch cabinet?
Yes, you can mount a microwave under a 12 inch cabinet. First, check that the size of your microwave matches the size of your 12 inch cabinet. Each microwave and cabinet will have their own specific dimensions that you should verify when measuring.
Make sure to measure both the microwave and opening from the bottom of the cabinet to the cabinet top as well as the inside of the cabinet and the outside of the microwave to ensure a proper fit. If measurements are correct, you can then begin the mounting process.
With assistance, lift the microwave into position and locate the mounting template which should have been included with the microwave. Use the template to mark the holes for the screws that will hold the microwave in place.
Use an appropriate drill bit to install the screws or if not available an anchoring screws or bolts may be used to secure the microwave. Finally, double-check all screws and bolts are properly tightened and connections are secure, and your microwave should be mounted safely and securely.
How high should a microwave be above a countertop?
The ideal height for a microwave above a countertop is between 20 and 24 inches. This measurement allows you to have an ergonomic posture while working with the microwave, making it easier and more comfortable to use.
Additionally, this height allows for a safe distance between the microwave and any items stored in the countertop, potentially avoiding things from becoming overheated. Furthermore, this height ensures that any steam or smoke created by your cooking will not damage the cabinets above the microwave.
What clearance is required for microwaves?
The clearance required for microwaves depends on the size of the microwave, whether it is an over-the-range microwave, and any additional combustion devices (such as a vent fan). Generally speaking, for an over-the-range microwave, you will need a minimum of 30″ from the top of the cooking surface to the bottom of the microwave.
For a standard built-in microwave, you will need at least 24″ of clearance between the top of the cooking surface and the bottom of the microwave. Also, if you are installing a vent fan with your microwave it may require additional clearance.
It is important to check the manufacturer’s requirements to make sure you have the proper clearance.
Do not install microwave lower than 36 in above the floor?
It is important to not install a microwave lower than 36 inches above the floor for a few reasons. Firstly, a microwave installed too low could cause a safety hazard. If the microwave is placed too low, a young child may be able to reach inside the microwave and injure themselves.
Additionally, gas stoves situated above the microwave must have at least 30 inches of unobstructed space between them, according to National Fire Protection Association guidelines.
Another reason to keep the microwave above 36 inches is to reduce the risk of heat damage to cabinetry and countertops below the unit. If the microwave is too low, then the heat could cause premature damage to the materials in the kitchen.
The last reason is to increase the comfort of the user. It is typically easier to reach food items if the microwave is at a comfortable arm’s reach height. Installing the microwave too low could make it difficult to reach or remove food.
It is best to install the microwave about 36 inches above the floor for safety, maximum lifespan and convenience.
How much clearance do you need between stove and microwave?
When installing an over-the-range microwave, you should ensure that you have a minimum of 30 inches of clearance between the stove and the bottom of the microwave. This will allow enough space both to adequately vent the steam and heat of the stove, and to ensure safe operation of the microwave.
In addition, you should make sure that the clearance between your microwave and the cabinets above it is at least 12 inches to ensure proper venting and operation.
How high can a microwave be in a kitchen?
The height of a microwave in a kitchen is largely determined by the height of the person who will primarily be using the appliance. If the height of the person is fairly average, then it would be recommended to place the microwave at a height of between 18-30 inches above the countertop.
If a taller person will be using the microwave, then it could be placed a few inches higher and vice versa for a shorter person. Additionally, it may be beneficial to position the microwave at a height that is comfortable to reach but not so high that it causes too much strain.
Placing the microwave close to eye level may also prove beneficial in case a quick visual inspection is needed while in use.
Should an over the range microwave be flush with cabinets?
Generally speaking, it is an ideal situation for an over the range microwave to be flush with cabinets. This gives the most streamlined and aesthetically pleasing look to your kitchen. It also causes less disruption to the air flow than if the microwave were not flush.
Without being flush, the air flow can be disrupted, which can impact the efficiency of the microwave. Additionally, when the microwave is installed flush with the cabinets, it prevents any gaps from forming that may allow heat or steam to escape from the microwave.
This will ensure that all of the heat and steam released from the microwave will stay contained within the appliance. Finally, installing a microwave flush with cabinets ensures that things such as spills, splashes of food, and oils won’t accumulate in any crevices.
What is the standard height for cabinets above a counter?
The standard height for cabinets above a countertop is typically 18 to 20 inches. However, depending on the individual’s height and what type of activities will be taking place there, a range of 16 to as high as 54 inches can be appropriate.
When installing cabinets, it is important to consider the activity in the space, such as meal preparation and other activities. For a kitchen counter, the standard distance from countertop to bottom of the wall cabinet is 18 inches, while the recommended distance from countertop to top of the wall cabinet is 24 inches.
For a bathroom countertop, the standard distance from countertop to bottom of the wall cabinet is 16 inches, while the recommended distance from countertop to top of the wall cabinet is 30 inches. Ultimately, when installing cabinets above a countertop, it is important to consider the user’s height and the activities taking place in the space as well as any existing hardware or objects that need to fit beneath the top of the cabinet.
How much clearance does a microwave really need?
When it comes to how much clearance a microwave needs, it depends on the make and model. Generally speaking, most microwaves require a minimum clearance of 4 inches on each side, and 6 to 10 inches above the top of the appliance.
A few top-of-the-line microwaves may require a bit more space — up to 12 inches above the appliance. Additionally, some refrigerators and other kitchen appliances require an even greater clearance space.
Be sure to check the user manual for more specific clearance requirements for the specific make and model you’re installing. Finally, before installing a microwave, make sure to also check with your local building codes and regulations to ensure that you’re in compliance.
Can a microwave be enclosed in a cabinet?
Yes, a microwave can be enclosed in a cabinet. There are special microwaves designed for built-in enclosures, such as under cabinet microwaves. These microwaves can be installed directly inside a cabinet, with easy access to the door, control panel, and cooking area.
Additionally, both over-the-range microwaves and countertop microwaves can also be enclosed in a cabinet. When using this type of configuration, ventilation must be ensured so that air and steam can escape, thus preventing a fire hazard.
Before enclosing a microwave in a cabinet, make sure the microwave is the right size for the available space and that there is a sufficient gap around the edges, of at least one inch, to allow heat to disperse.
How deep does a cabinet need to be for a microwave?
The depth of a cabinet required to fit a standard size microwave oven will depend on the size of the microwave oven itself. For example, the countertop microwave ovens measure between 11 and 15 inches, and will typically require a minimum depth of 17 inches in a cabinet to accommodate the oven and still be able to open the door of the oven.
Over-the-range or built-in microwave ovens, which are larger than countertop microwaves, will usually require a minimum cabinet depth of 24 inches in order to open the door fully. It is important to ensure that the cabinet is large enough to allow adequate ventilation to help extend the life of the appliance.
In some cases, a cabinet depth of 26 inches is recommended to allow sufficient space for air circulation.
Does a built in microwave need ventilation?
Yes, a built in microwave needs ventilation. A microwave oven generates a lot of heat and must be properly ventilated to help ensure safe operation. A built-in microwave requires ventilation at either the top or back of the unit to vent all of the heat that is generated by cooking.
To provide adequate ventilation, the manufacturer’s installation instructions should be followed to ensure proper air flow and temperature is maintained within your kitchen. This might include the installation of a vent hood above the control panel or a vent fan at the back of the unit.
It is also important to take into account the other appliances that are being used nearby, as these may be contributing to an increase in the temperature within the kitchen. Once the installation is complete, it is important to keep the fan running when the microwave is in use and to regularly clean or replace the filter or mesh screen in the vent if necessary to ensure proper ventilation is maintained.
Why do microwaves need space around them?
Microwaves need space around them to ensure they can circulate hot air and steam created as the food cooks. If there is not enough space around the microwave, then heated air and steam may not be able to escape, leading to inefficient heating.
Furthermore, if the microwave is placed too close to any other heat-emitting source, like an oven or heating vent, it can affect the efficiency of the microwave and could cause it to overheat. In addition, if the microwave is too close to a wall or countertop, or if the vents are blocked, this can cause some of the heat to be redirected and result in damage to the wall or surface.
Finally, microwaves also need to have ventilation to pull in air and keep the internal components cool.
What is microwave cutout depth?
Microwave cutout depth is the measurement from the wall or cabinet to the front edge of the microwave. It is important to consider the depth of your cabinet or shelf when buying or installing a new microwave, to avoid any potential installation issues.
Generally, a microwave cutout depth of 15 inches is recommended, as most standard size microwaves will fit comfortably in that space. It is important to check the specifications of the microwave that you are buying to ensure that it will fit in the allotted space.
Additionally, if you are mounting the microwave above the range, you may need to purchase a special mounting kit which can make the cutout depth much deeper than 15 inches.
What size cabinet goes above microwave?
The size of the cabinet above the microwave will depend on the size of the microwave and the space available in the kitchen or other area where it is being installed. Generally speaking, there should be enough clearance between the top of the microwave and the bottom of the cabinet above it to allow for proper ventilation of the appliance and to avoid any potential overheating.
Additionally, the cabinet above the microwave should also be wide enough to accommodate both the microwave and any accessories or items necessary for its use. For a standard countertop or over-the-range microwave, you will typically need a cabinet that is either 15″ or 18″ wide.
However, if you have a larger countertop or over-the-range microwave appliance, the cabinet above it should generally be at least 20″ wide.