Microwave Inside Cabinet How To
Installing a microwave inside a cabinet provides a streamlined, built-in look for your kitchen while freeing up precious counter space. But properly incorporating a microwave into cabinetry requires some planning and handiwork. Follow this guide to integrate your microwave oven into your cabinets like a pro.
An inside cabinet microwave installation allows you to hide the appliance away when not in use, reducing clutter in your cooking space. Tucking the microwave behind cabinet doors also minimizes dust build up and makes it easy to wipe down the exterior. For small or galley kitchens, installing the microwave internally gives better accessibility without eating up counter real estate or walkways.
Benefits of Installing a Microwave Inside a Cabinet
Integrating your microwave oven into your kitchen cabinetry offers several advantages:
- Saves precious counter space since the appliance is concealed when not in use
- Provides a streamlined, built-in look for a cleaner aesthetic
- Reduces dust accumulation on the microwave exterior
- Allows for better accessibility in compact, small, or galley kitchen spaces
- Keeps the microwave at a safe height to prevent accidents
For those with limited counter space or containing a more contemporary style, an enclosed cabinet microwave can maximize room utility. The hidden integration also lends a high-end, seamless look for more modern kitchen spaces. Just make sure to account for proper clearance and ventilation.
Considerations When Installing a Microwave Inside a Cabinet
While integrating a microwave into an enclosed cabinet does provide some useful benefits, some careful planning helps ensure proper functionality and longevity. Consider the following factors before installing a microwave oven inside cabinetry:
Microwave and Cabinet Dimensions
You need adequate width, height, and depth in your cabinetry to fit your appliance. Measure the interior dimensions of your cabinetry as well as the external dimensions of the microwave to ensure compatibility. In general, you need at least an inch of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation. But consult your appliance manual for specific recommendations. Also account for extra interior depth if you plan to install a trim kit for a flush fit.
Ventilation Requirements
Adequate airflow prevents overheating, which can damage your microwave or cabinetry over time. Most over-the-range microwave ovens come equipped with ventilation systems that route heat and steam outside. Make sure to account for proper ducting out of cabinets before installing your appliance. Carefully review your microwave manual to understand the CFM rating and necessary ventingCFM (cubic feet per minute) indicates the airflow needed.
Electrical and Outlet Placement
Microwave ovens have specific electrical requirements, usually needing their own grounded outlet. Place this electrical source accordingly within the cabinet for easy and safe functionality. You may also need to drill entry points for routing the power cord. Consult your appliance guidelines for exact amps, volts, and outlet regulations to have your kitchen properly wired.
Cabinet Stability and Weight Considerations
Microwave ovens can weigh over 50 pounds, placing significant weight loads on cabinets, especially smaller spaces. Ensure shelves and frames feature sturdy construction with durable brackets and reliable hardware to prevent collapse under the appliance mass. Also inspect that the cabinet door has suitable hinges and anchoring to account for the microwave weight when opening and closing repeatedly.
Microwave Door Clearance
When installing your appliance into cabinetry, ensure adequate room for the microwave door to fully open without obstruction. Check that adjacent cabinet doors or shelves do not block access so you can properly place and retrieve food items.
Prep Work Needed Before Installation
Performing some simple prep work before mounting your microwave paves the way for smooth installation:
Remove Existing Microwave
If you currently have a countertop microwave, safely remove the unit and transport it to its new integrated home. This usually includes unplugging, detaching any venting, and lifting upward. You may need another person to assist slide out and carry if heavy.
Prepare Cabinet for Built-In Installation
Clear out cabinet shelves and contents to make adequate room for the appliance. Place removable shelving in another location. Remove any screws or hardware obstructing insertion. Also vacuum and wipe down shelves to remove debris before installing your microwave.
Gather Tools and Materials
Having the proper tools and hardware on hand prevents delays in getting your microwave installed promptly. This includes a tape measure, stud finder, drill, screwdrivers, protective equipment like gloves and goggles, ducting, trim kits, and anything else specified in your appliance installation manual.
Take Measurements
Carefully measure the depth, width, and height of your cabinet space as well as the microwave dimensions including housing, venting, and door clearance. Compare these numbers keeping ventilation clearance in mind. Repeat these numbers with the future microwave location empty before installation day.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Once you complete the appropriate planning and prep work, follow these steps for seamlessly incorporating your microwave into a kitchen cabinet:
Cut Out Ventilation Openings
Using a jigsaw, create cut outs in the cabinetry back panel, sides, or base as needed per manufacturer instructions for proper ventilation. Carefully make these openings following measurements and markings for accurate duct placement.
Attach Mounting Plate
Screw the provided mounting plate into the interior upper cabinet per your microwave's guidelines, keeping ductwork placement in mind. This plate securely anchors your appliance into place once fully installed. Use a stud finder to locate strips and use enough provided screws for stability.
Insert Microwave into Cabinet
Slide the appliance onto the mounting bracket while feeding the power cord into the cabinet interior outlet or hole cutout as applicable. Two people help lift and guide the microwave into place without strain.
Secure Into Place
Using a drill and screwdriver, insert accompanying screws through the front of the microwave and into the mounting plate per specified spots by the manufacturer. Some models may require additional side or top anchors as well, especially for heavy-duty or commercial units.
Connect Venting, Electrics and Trim Kit
Attach venting ductwork to redirect heat, moisture, and odors properly to the outside. Also safely connect the power cable and outlet fully within the cabinet. Install any accompanying trim kits for a streamlined fit and professionally finished appearance. Kits should blend and match your cabinetry style.
Open and close the cabinet door with the microwave installed to ensure suitable clearance and operation. Heat a microwave-safe container filled with water to confirm required ventilation was properly installed without overheating issues. Check your owner's manual for any post-installation testing procedures.
Integrating your microwave into a kitchen cabinet provides a built-in, hidden appliance look that maximizes room utility. But carefully consider sizing needs, ventilation, electrical planning, and hardware requirements ahead of installation. With the proper prep work and adequate electrical and handiness skills, you can safely tuck your microwave away inside cabinetry for optimal streamlined style and function.