Cabinet too low for Over-The-Range Microwave

My daughter has hers over the hood and it came with a fan for exhaust in it.

It seems to me hers is shorter in height but longer in length. I do not know the brand though. It is about 4 years old now.

She had to have an electrcian install a special plug for it.

shirley

I don't have an answer to your question, but I will suggest that if you have a choice, I would avoid a OTR microwave. It is not a good spot for a microwave. It is exposed to additional heat and it is not easy to get food into and out of nor is it easy to clean. I do realize that with some small kitchens it can be an attractive idea and might prove useful. Best of luck.

On Mon 07 Nov 2005 05:07:57a, Joseph Meehan wrote in alt.home.repair:

Sorry, but I can't agree. We've had an OTR microwave in three different homes and have never experienced any of the "problems" you describe. In only one of those homes was saving space a consideration.

If the cabinets are modular and easy to disassemble, it's not too hard to cut them down to size. I did that for a freind. I unbolted the cabinet from the others and the wall, disassembled it, cut down the sides and reassembled it. The doors were no longer available in that style, so I was unable to buy new ones of the right size. The rails and stiles on the door were glued on and came off easily with a dead-blow hammer. I cut them down, as well as the interior panel, and glued the whole thing back together. I had to remount the lower hinges - the most difficult part of the exercise since they are European style hinges.

Most folks couldn't tell the cabinet wasn't made that way. I can, but then most workmen can see the tiny flaws they regret making in a bit of work.

Mike

Thanks, thats kind of what I was thinking, now I just have to learn how cut straight.

Your codes may vary from this but where I am (Ontario, Canada) our building code states that there must be 30" above the level of the burners or elements, except that non-combustible or protected materials may be 24".

"Thanks, thats kind of what I was thinking, now I just have to learn how cut straight. "

If you decide to go that route, I would suggest removing the cabinet and then take it to either a cabinet shop or finish carpenter to downsize it for you. Given the cost of screwing it up, IMO, it's better to have it done by a professional.