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New Sharp Microwave Drawer Problems?

8 years ago

Help! I'm about to sign-off on my kitchen design, which includes the newest Sharp microwave drawer that sits flush with the cabinetry and has a flip-out control panel.

I've read a couple of horror stories about how the microwave drawer ventilates downward onto the cabinetry below instead of through a vent trim, destroying the cabinetry. There are also quality issues where they are arriving damaged and not in working condition and that Sharp replaces them with refurbished, also damaged drawers.

Should I consider an older style model such as a Wolf? Downside is that controls are on the front and the price is high. Or should I consider a speed oven, but I've read they can't be installed below the counter.

http://www.sharpusa.com/ForHome/HomeAppliances/Microwaves/Models/SMD2470AS.aspx

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Comments (4)

Melissa Kroger
8 years ago
I'm not sure why there would be problems with this mw drawer. All are made by sharp, including Wolf. I'm planning on getting this Model because of the easy to read controls and flush design.
J K thanked Melissa Kroger
J K
Original Author
8 years ago
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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Hi, K R. If you happen to see this, could you please tell me how far your counter overhangs (from cabinet face), and also if the counter also overhangs the face of the microwave? Our kitchen designer has the counter overhang set at 1 and 1/2" (from cabinet), but with overlay doors, only 5/8" overhanging the door fronts. I don't want the microwave controls to be hard to access with too much overhang, if we choose to increase it, but also do not want any spills or drips going straight onto the top of the microwave. (I am not certain of the depth of the face of the microwave.) Are you able to shed any light on finding the overhang sweet spot for these tip-out control microwave drawers? Thanks! I am concerned abiut pkacement of
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Joe Henderson
8 years ago
In flush installs we have been recommending leaving clearance top and bottom. Top to allow for fingers to get in to pull out the control panel, and bottom to allow the heat/steam to escape more efficiently. This isn't stated in the manual, but one of my designers pointed this out and it makes a lot of sense. Sharp is a good company, a little odd, but they are responsive and the few major issues we have had over the years '(VERY FEW considering how many we sell) have been resolved quickly and happily.
J K thanked Joe Henderson
J K
Original Author
8 years ago
It appears my KD has allowed plenty of space so we are going for it.

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