Clearence height for "over the stove microwaves.?

Question

I am installing one of those microwaves that go above the stove. I need to know what the minimum clearence is so the gas stove doesnt melt the bottom of the micro. Do I have to change out the cabinet above the stove also? Anybody???

Answer 1

Typically the bottom of a cabinet is 54" off the ground (which is 18" above the countertop). This is fairly standard for most stoves, but if you have a stove with very high BTU then you might need to consult the manual for exact dimensions.

The height of the cabinet above the microwave will depend on your ceiling height. For ceilings 96" or higher a 42" or 36" cabinet is standard. For a ceiling that is 84" a 30" cabinet is standard, which makes the cabinet above the microwave 15" high. Every kitchen layout might vary based on the designer.

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Clearence height for "over the stove microwaves.?
I am installing one of those microwaves that go above the stove. I need to know what the minimum clearence is so the gas stove doesnt melt the bottom of the micro. Do I have to change out the cabinet above the stove also? Anybody???

Answer 3

Microwave Above Stove

Answer 4

Above Stove Microwave

Answer 5

We have 42" wall cabinets that go to the ceiling. Above the stove we have a 27" cabinet. The clearance above the stove is 16 3/4" and we have had no problems with heat affecting our micro-hood.
If you have the installation instructions consult them for clearances. I believe that the recommended space was 17" for ours. So we came up a little short, but no problems after 5 1/2 years
Hope this helps.

Answer 6

Well speaking as an Electrician with over 23 years of experience you first need to make sure you have a power source for the micro. If your stove is gas there is a 110v outlet behind it to power the clock/timer/igniter. This is perfect to add an additional outlet for the micro. If there is an existing hood fan there, EVEN BETTER! If the cabinet above your stove is larger than 18" you most likely need to change it. Something to keep in mind is the 18" is measured with the top of the cabinet above your stove at the same level as the top of all the other cabinets in your kitchen. My advice for this type of remodel/installation is that it is always best left to professionals. The money you save doing it yourself will definitely not seem worth it if you get electrocuted and/or burn your house down in the process. Most people don't realize this but you have a greater possibility of being killed by 110v than 220v. Better safe than sorry! I hope this helps you.

Answer 7

I use the stove most of the time. For the microwave I put in popcorn and I warm certain items. Call me old fashion but I just don't feel using the microwave for everything is good for you and I have read reports from doctors that support my opinion.

Answer 8

Ours is 14" from the top of the gas stove to the bottom of the microwave. I think the instructions recommended an inch more than that.

Answer 9

generally you would want about 30"-35" clearance from the top of hte stove to the bottom of your microwave.. we just installed one and this height works well! You want to make sure you have this space in order to comfortably be able to reach to the back of the stove for a tall soup pot. Anything under this simply gets too restrictive space wise.

Answer 10

I have a new house. Decided to measure. My built in Microwave is 18 inches from bottom of microwave to top of electric stove. My husband who is a builder says typically they average at 18 inches. Hopes this helps.