Find 61+ Beautiful Can I Put A Microwave Above A Kitchen Sink For Every Budget

If you're renovating your kitchen or simply looking to free up counter space, installing an over-the-range microwave can be a great solution. Not only does it provide a convenient place to heat up your meals, but it also includes a ventilation system to help remove cooking odors and smoke from your kitchen. But can you put a microwave above a kitchen sink? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to consider before installing one. Let's dive into the details.

The first thing to keep in mind when installing an over-the-range microwave is the clearance requirements. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends a minimum of 13 inches of clearance between the bottom of the microwave and the cooktop. This is to ensure that there is enough space for you to comfortably use your stove without hitting your head on the microwave. However, it's always best to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific clearance requirements for your model.

When installing an over-the-range microwave oven, it's important to have a dedicated circuit for it. This means that the microwave should not share a circuit with other appliances, as it can cause electrical issues and potentially trip the circuit. You can check the circuit requirements in the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional electrician for assistance.

One of the main benefits of an over-the-range microwave is the built-in ventilation system. This can help remove cooking smells and smoke from your kitchen, making it a more pleasant space to cook and eat in. When installing an over-the-range microwave with vent, make sure that the vent is properly connected to an outside duct or a recirculating system. This will ensure that the ventilation system is working effectively.

Some over-the-range microwaves come with an exhaust fan that can be used in place of a traditional range hood. This can be a great space-saving option, but it's important to make sure that the exhaust fan is properly installed and vented to the outside. This will help prevent any potential fire hazards and keep your kitchen free of smoke and odors.

If your kitchen doesn't have an outside duct for ventilation, you can still install an over-the-range microwave with venting. These microwaves come with a recirculating system that filters the air and releases it back into the room. While this may not be as effective as venting to the outside, it can still help remove cooking odors and smoke from your kitchen.

If you do have an outside duct in your kitchen, it's important to make sure that the over-the-range microwave is properly connected to it. This will ensure that the ventilation system is working effectively and removing any unwanted odors and smoke from your kitchen. It's also important to regularly clean and maintain the ductwork to keep it functioning properly.

In some cases, it may not be possible to install an over-the-range microwave with ductwork. This could be due to the layout of your kitchen or other structural limitations. In these situations, a ductless venting system can be used. This system uses a charcoal filter to remove odors and smoke from the air before releasing it back into the room. However, it's important to regularly replace these filters to ensure they continue to work effectively.

Similar to ductless venting, an over-the-range microwave with recirculating vent also uses a filtration system to remove cooking odors and smoke. These microwaves come with a built-in charcoal filter that needs to be replaced every 6 months to a year, depending on usage. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper maintenance of the recirculating vent system.

Lastly, you can also install an over-the-range microwave with external venting, which allows you to connect the microwave to an existing range hood or vent. This can be a more cost-effective option if you already have a range hood installed in your kitchen. Just make sure to properly connect the microwave to the external vent to ensure proper ventilation.

In conclusion, installing an over-the-range microwave above a kitchen sink is possible, but it's important to consider the clearance requirements, dedicated circuit, and proper ventilation options. By following the manufacturer's instructions and consulting with a professional if needed, you can safely and effectively install an over-the-range microwave in your kitchen. Enjoy your new and improved cooking space!