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New, Larger Sharp MW Drawer Question!!

14 years ago

Sharp announced some months back a 1.2 cu ft version of its MW drawer that's about 1" or so deeper than the version that's been sold over the past several years ("fits a 7" mug or 20 oz. cup"). The smaller, older version is also OEM'd as Dacor, Wolf and Viking model.

The older version vents to the front. I've been unable to see how the new unit vents, as no dealer seems to have them on display! I've read some comments elsewhere that the new drawer MW vents into the cabinet below creating a potential moisture issue.

Sharp finally posted some pictures of the newer unit's venting system on its web site.

KB-6524 (24" model) showing the vents:

Here's the KB-6525 (30" model) showing the full front panel and how it covers the vents:

Here's the older model showing the vents along the front, with the door stopping above them (no obstructions):

Does anyone have or has anyone seen the newer, deeper model? Does it vent adequately to the front or do the vents direct the exhaust into or over the cabinet below? We're interested in the larger, deeper unit, but don't want to buy something that could damage our cabinets over time.

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Comments (8)

southernstitcher
14 years ago
Very interesting question, as I'm about to hit the button to order mine! I certainly don't want a problem on my new cabinets - we use our MW a lot.
I really want the larger height in there too. Looks to me like there is nowhere else for the steam to go but out toward the front of the unit, and then down, no matter where the vents are pointing.
Have you called Sharp?
beemer1981
Original Author
14 years ago
I emailed Sharp, no reply. One of the local appliance dealers called the rep, who simply stated that there would be no problems, it was properly designed. Big surprise there! When I suggested that the dealer ask for a letter that Sharp would replace my cabinets if they got damaged from the microwave, we both shared a good laugh.

It looks like it could be an issue, so we're reluctant to take the plunge. Hopefully someone here on GW will be able to answer my questions.
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mdrevs: i had the same problem. it is the hidden vents. they are directed onto the cabinet face below. depending on the style of cabinets (inset vs. full overlay) the moisture may hit them a little or a lot. the moisture has to escape the microwave through the vent. I now use my 17 year old microwave on my counter. The counter sometimes gets moist from the vent, depending what i am cooking, but no damage to my quartz unlike my cherry cabinets. i love the idea of a microwave drawer. when and if one is designed like the original sharp microwave, with exposed vents, i will consider purchasing another. until then, my cabinet is kind of damaged, i am getting a drawer made for it, which should cover the damage. i would have designed my kitchen differently if i had known this. biggest mistake i made.
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I will be watching this topic close also for I am in the same boat. I did look at a push button open MW drawer the other day from Wolf and it was very nice. Of course it was a bit pricey. Sore can't help. I seem so helpless on this forum seeing that I am a young buck and have never had to go through the process of picking out certain appliances. I am asking alot of questions asking for help from everyone and not being able to give them any when they have a question because I have no experience with these higher quality appliances. Good luck.
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The bottom of the drawer on mine is completely level--as it should be. Items that you heat should be level, otherwise liquids or semi-liquids would flow to the downhill side, be thicker, and not heat evenly. So sorry you're having problems. We are still getting used to the power of the MW. I've boiled over more than a few cups of hot chocolate. But we are very happy with ours--at least after two months.
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Thanks melis918. I like the more ergonomic control panel and flush installation too. However, I have read reviews that the concealed vents direct steam directly at the cabinetry below leaving condensation dripping down and into the cabinetry and could damage the cabinetry where the older Sharp models (including those rebranded for Wolf and other names) direct the steam outward using more obvious vents. This latest design with the concealed flip-out control panel is only available in the Sharp name at this time. I don't see the point in paying a premium for a name brand that is a rebranded Sharp, but I'm concerned about going for this new model if the steam will ruin my cabinetry and if others are having issues with quality. That is the reason I'd consider Wolf--to complement my other appliances, and while the controls won't be as convenient, it is flush and may be less likely to ruin my cabinetry. I see that my KD has some clearance between the microwave and the counter and the drawer below so I'm hoping this won't be an issue. Maybe I'll just have to take my chances and hope they stand behind their product should I have any issues.
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beemer1981
Original Author
14 years ago
Anybody?
Buehl
14 years ago
I would post this on Kitchens as well. I remember a couple of people talking about getting it, but I don't remember who... Unfortunately, I cannot help since I have the older model.
southernstitcher
14 years ago
Well I went ahead and ordered mine. I really need the extra height for a large glass measuring cup I use frequently. Maybe it's so energy efficient or insulated it does not generate enough outside heat to be a problem?
beemer1981
Original Author
14 years ago
The extra height is what's keeping my interest in it as well. I cross posted this on the Kitchen Forum, and you might follow that thread as well.

Once you have it installed, if possible please post some pictures and observations.

Here is a link that might be useful: Sharp Drawer Post on Kitchen Forum
beemer1981
Original Author
14 years ago
Bumping this one to the top as a reminder in case there are any updates.
southernstitcher
14 years ago
Bump. Mine should be in this week. Friday will be two weeks since I ordered it from Abes. No call yet from the freight carrier... If it does come in this week, it'll still be about 3 weeks till install.
I will post pictures and observations once it's all in.

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