I've been lurking here a lot lately and learning a LOT about appliances for my upcoming kitchen remodel. Thanks to all of you!

I've got a small kitchen so I'd like to use an OTR microwave to increase my available counter space, even though I understand they are inferior to a dedicated vent hood. I'm finalizing my cabinets and was reading the installation instructions for my range choice (Electrolux electric slide in) and noticed that they require 30" clearance between the range top and combustible materials.

My question is this: does the 30" apply to the metal/plastic underside of the microwave? I was planning on putting the MW 24" above the range, is this too low? I'm having a really hard time with the idea of putting a microwave 30" above the range as it would make it virtually unusable (or at least really scary to use).

Maybe this is the dealbreaker and I'll just have to put in a vent hood and live with the counterspace loss of having a regular MW. Help?

TIA,

Bri