Are you contemplating if how far should microwaves be above stove? There may be a difference in distance between the microwave and the range top based on the microwave you intend to use.
Because they are designed to handle higher exterior temperatures, over-the-range microwaves require less room between the stove and the microwave than countertop models.
Microwave cooktops mounter over a ranger have a capacity restriction set by the manufacturer. The BTU output of a typical residential range is much larger as compared to this type of range.
Fort that reason, GE says they shouldn’t be used on ranges with burners that produce more than 60,000 BTUs. So you won’t have to be concerned about this unless you have many powerful burners.
What do The Experts recommend?
When it comes to how far should microwaves be above stove, the recommended space between your microwave and your stove should be at least 13 inches, depending on your microwave model. The distance between a countertop microwave and an over-the-range microwave depends on whatever type you have.
Also, consider the following recommendations for the particular installation that you wish to perform. It is based on what the experts suggest, so consider making your kitchen look better and maximize space.
#1. For the kitchen countertop microwaves
To avoid a fire or an overheated countertop microwave, keep it far enough away from the range. As a bonus, spills from food on the stove won’t get into the microwave.
Using a countertop microwave over the range requires placing it at least 2 feet away from the stove because of the design limitations. Therefore, they should never use them over the cooktop.
#2. Mounting over-the-range
Ventilation systems for venting and filtering exhaust from the cooktop are built-in of this type of microwave. These types allow you to choose between exhausting to the exterior or returning exhaust vapors to the kitchen. Depending on who you ask, the ideal distance between these appliances and the stove varies.
There must be a 30-inch clearance between a range top and any flammable surface, as specified by the International Residential Code. Still, microwaves that can tolerate less clearance must be installed following the manufacturer’s recommendations. This clearance is the basis for most municipal building codes.
A microwave’s lowest shelf should not be more than 54 inches off the floor, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association This means that a typical 36-inch cooktop can be used with a microwave that’s only 18 inches wide.
Some manufacturers permit smaller clearances. Microwaves, according to GE, must have between 13 and 16-inches in clearance between the cooktop and their microwave. Large pots on the range can be a pain if your cooktop isn’t very spacious. To give you a clear perspective, read on why is a stove called a range.
#3. Microwave induction cooking
It is recommended by the National Kitchen and Bath Association that a clean landing spot be provided near a microwave so that cooks may place microwaved dishes there.
Place the landing point above, below, or adjacent to the microwave door on a 15-inch-wide platform. The counter space around the cooktop must be free because an over-the-range microwave does not have a direct landing spot.
Microwave Over The Range Vs. Integrated Microwave: What’s The Difference?
Though they are both designed to save valuable counter space, the two types of microwaves differ in several important ways. Long-reach microwave ovens are in handy for two reasons. In addition to being microwave ovens, these appliances can be used as an alternative for stove vent hoods.
A countertop microwave oven can be concealed behind a cabinet or mounted on a wall as a built-in option when space permits. Even though they free up a lot of counter space, installing them can be a bit difficult. A licensed electrician is recommended if you’ve never done electrical work before.
Where Should You Put Your Microwave Oven?
Place your countertop microwave at least two feet away from your burner when using it. If at all feasible, put it on a counter next to where you prepare food. A countertop microwave will make your kitchen run more smoothly if more than one person is cooking at a time.
Try it out in several different spots in your kitchen if you’re unsure where to put it. Then pick the one you prefer. These devices are portable due to their small size and lightweight. Test out the counter space close to the landing area in a nook or on a cart to see how it performs before committing to it. To understand better, know how close can a microwave over the stove be.
It’s A Wrap!
There is no fixed measurement as to how far should microwaves be above stove. If you are taller than usual, you may want to consider moving the microwave up within your reach.
Conversely, heat from a cooking surface can harm heatproof panels if they are installed lower than the manufacturer recommends. But installing a lower microwave could free up more space on the stove for other pots and pans.
If your kitchen cabinetry is higher than the required height, you may have to raise the microwave a little higher than the manufacturer recommends. As long as it’s simple to get to, you can install the microwave above the stove at any height you wish. Do you want to read more about stoves? Check out how to clean stainless steel stovetop. Thank you for reading!