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Under Cabinet OTR Microwave Dimensions Question

13 years ago

I am in the process of completeing my cabinet order and wonder what should I allow for the microwave (I have not purchased yet). The cabinet maker has allowed 16" for the microwave but I still have time to change the cabinet size above it if I need to. I'd like the bottom of the microwave to be at the 18" like the cabinets on each side of it. Do I need have the microwave purchased first or is there a standard size that we leave for the microwave. I mean microwaves don't last forever so I didn't think it was a big deal till now.

Also, is it okay to bump out the depth of the cabinet over the microwave to say a 13" to 15" depth instead if the 12". Does that hinder the use of the range drastically? I think it give some dimension...that would be the only cabinet I could bump out in my kitchen. Has anyone else bumped out the depth of their cabinet above the microwave?

Thaks for the help everyone. I thought I posted this last night and logged on this morning and didn't see it anywhere.

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Comments (3)

herbflavor
13 years ago
I would definitely select your microwave, read the spec sheet and note the install dimensions. I think the microwave and cabs above and around look better all flush with each other.Reason:microwaves are not all that attractive, the look will never be decorative, whatever you do, so I would keep it streamlined.Will it be vented?
mountaineergirl
13 years ago
If the microwave is vented up through the cabinet, you could probably bump out the cabinet. Some of them have vents on the top (but toward the front) and so if its vented out into the room you cannot cover up those vents.

As far as the height of the microwave, I've seen them even with the cabinets, and sometimes a few inches higher than the bottom of the surrounding cabinets. Since the vent isn't that effective, you wouldn't want it too high, plus that would make it even more difficult to use (if you're short)

and you're absolutely correct to think it won't last very long. My first 2 lasted 4 years each, and the one I have now is going on 5 years so I expect (and I'm hoping :)) that it will die soon.
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mountaineergirl
13 years ago
hmmm I see you posted this question twice? there's another one on page 2 with some responses.

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