I have a kitchen configuration with an existing countertop microwave built into a cabinet above an in wall oven. The microwave I'd like to replace it with (Whirlpool Gold) happens to be an over the range model. Is it OK if I use an over the range model in a cabinet? Reading the installation instructions it's hard to tell since they talk about ventilation, but I'm guessing that ventilation is for the stove below (which won't exist here).
Mount an over the range microwave in a cabinet
appliances
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Best Answer
In almost all cases you can do this. The difference between the microwave models is more about the mounting and how the front looks. There are basically three general types. Your typical countertop microwave which some people just stick in cabinets - which is fine given that the electrical is done right. The you have your over the range which usually have two extra functions - an undercarriage with range venting and lighting, and simple mounting brackets on the top. Then you have your cabinet or built-in models. These are the least sold and usually cost a bit more because they have a nice mounting plate in front.
Any ventilation space that you currently have should be adequate for whatever you get. In your particular case my "problem" would be the undercarriage. These microwaves are generally not made for sitting on their bottoms which have a fan and lights and usually a plastic casing. This casing may break or crack over time. I don't see an "issue" with doing this - although I would simply double check by calling Whirlpool - but I wouldn't do this unless I was 100% certain that the bottom of that microwave wouldn't be damaged because of movement and rubbing. Also I can't see how this aesthetically looks the best of the three options.