Putting an over-the-range microwave over a counter?

14 years ago

last modified: 14 years ago

Is it weird to put an above the range microwave over my counter? I really love my current above-the-range MW but in my new kitchen I don't want it over my stove anymore. I noticed that an above-the-range requires less depth in my new cabinets. If I change to another type of microwave, I have to sacrifice wattage in order to get something that's not so deep. Plus I really love the handle on the door as opposed to a push-button open. What do you think?

Featured Answer

PRO

User

12 years ago

Sure, you can "faux" an OTR as a built in. It cannot go in an oven cabinet for ventilation's sake , but you can hang it from a 15" deep upper, with side panels and a filler across the bottom at the front. I've done it in several kitchens, this being the latest. No pics of the actual install yet, sorry.

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Comments (25)

Emily Hurley
14 years ago
Hi Paula, Does the microwave have a vent system on the bottom? Is that the concern?
feeny
14 years ago
Here's a photo of a kitchen with a configuration that is a bit like what you are describing. The microwave here isn't an "over the range" one; rather, it is a built in GE Profile model, but it is a similar size and is positioned in a way that sounds similar to what you are contemplating.

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paula32
Original Author
14 years ago
Hi Emily, it does have a vent system on the bottom. I don't think it would be very obvious, my husband could even put a steel plate over it to cover it. I think my concern is more that the microwave is 30 inches wide and wondering if it will be "obviously" meant to hang over the range and I just didn't use it that way.
paula32
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks for that photo Feeny. That microwave also looks to be pretty wide and doesn't look odd to me at all! Most microwaves on houzz seem to be either smallish, or hidden below the counter, so seeing one that is still pretty prominent and looks good makes me feel better. :)
feeny
14 years ago
last modified: 14 years ago
Um, Vikrant, there are hundreds of microwaves that are built with vent fans beneath them precisely to be installed over the range. This is an extremely common kitchen configuration, though it isn't usually recommended for use over high-power professional ranges which need stronger external venting.
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jackpiper
14 years ago
The over the range microwave was a better size for my cabinet configuration since I wanted it up at cabinet level and not in a base cabinet. It is not obvious unless you lean under the microwave and look. I actually forgot that it was an over the range until I had a similar size issue in a new house I am building and went back and looked at my current microwave.
minellahome
12 years ago
Hi - I have a similar situation, did anyone reply with a solution? thanks.
Helen Allen
12 years ago
have just replaced my gas range and want to replace an ineffective range hood with an over the range micro but I don't have the 16" clearance needed between burner and top cabinet. are there otrange microwaves that are 13" in height any suggestions
Carol Johnson
12 years ago
I think the question should go to the appliance manufacture. Can the vent function be turned off? If it cannot, then I would say no to that style of micro turned into a version which is built into a cabinet. Strictly my opinion though. Check with your appliance dealer.
Carol Johnson
12 years ago
Thanks for the tip, ProSource, I haven't done that before!
kitandkaboodle
12 years ago
The over the counter 1.5 cu ft, 1100 watt by Sharp is made to be installed from a cabinet. Sharp R-1211.
lamiller99
12 years ago
For my GE Profile OTR convection/microwave (PVM1790SRSS), the manual states that the cabinets above and to each side of the microwave can only be 12" - 13" deep. Does anyone know why? And would that still apply if it was being installed over a countertop instead of OTR? I would love to have the cabinet above be 15" - 16" deep, but I don't want to cause problems.
jb66
11 years ago
kitchen remodel: I want to hang my 30" OTR microwave under 30"cabinet right of frig, left of stove. anything wrong with that?
jb66
11 years ago
my cabinet person thinks I'm crazy, but I cant' find cabinet microwave that has a handle
soopergal
11 years ago
jb66. I see nothing wrong with that. i'm planning to install ours in a different location too.
drew kreiling
10 years ago
I bought an over range microwave. I am having my kitchen re-done and need a microwave. Can i use it on the counter till I am ready. It vents out the back so that is not an issue
laurab77
10 years ago
This article was very helpful, thank you! I too want to replace my 30" MW /shelf with a 30" OTR MW. The built in light will be helpful, but yes would like to disconnect the fan somehow.
suezbell
10 years ago
Keep what you like and put it where you want. If there is a vent underneath the microwave intended for above the stove, simply set the microwave on a new shelf; or, if you need to leave the bottom open for the light -- and if it doesn't bother you visually, then leave the fan as is and ignore it most of the time -- who knows, it might even help when you're dicing onions..
Cheryl Glenn
8 years ago
i have a Samsung microwave and a range hood. I'm leaning more towards the hood, but wondering where do I put this microwave at now? can it go under the sink area? There is a large space that truly will not be used for anything. cabinets are in and I truly don't want it to sit on counter tops
Matthew Kohrs
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
We struggled with this decision and opted for a more modern look and powerful hood venting above the range. We are in the midst of our project and having installed a Jenn Air OTR nice unit with side recess to open door installed under a cabinet above the counter. My wife dislikes the push-button microwaves and only OTRs have handles or recesses like this.

This unit also has convection on model JMV9196CS. https://jennair.com/appliances/details/JMV9196CS
James Sitton
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Can I temporarily set my over-the-range microwave on my counter until I can get it installed? Will the vent on the bottom damage my counter-top?
dawitngs
8 years ago
yes you can set it on your counter and it wont damage your counter and remember the vent runs only when you turn the vent on.
PRO
Anthony Perez
8 years ago
OTR MW are mean to be used as such, however they could be use inside a cabinet

if the vent option can be turned off. Another thing to remember is that must over the range microwaves are about 15 to 16" deep and have the door hinge on the left side, if you were to have a cabinet that is 15" deep next to it on the left side, then the microwave door will hit that cabinet preventing it from opening fully

see sketch of possible configurations
HU-302291343
5 years ago
GREAT ADVICE FRM BOTH of YOU: dawitngs & Anthony