Love Your Kitchen's Form And Function with A Microwave Shelf Above The Stove

Having limited counter space in your kitchen can be frustrating. From meal prep to setting down grocery bags, you never seem to have enough room for all your cooking needs. But what if we told you there was an underutilized area that could give you back some precious real estate? Enter the over-the-stove microwave shelf.

Installing your microwave above your stove opens up your counters and makes it easily accessible while cooking. Read on as we explore the benefits of an over-the-stove microwave and how to integrate this space-saving appliance into your kitchen design.

What is an Over-the-Stove Microwave?

An over-the-stove (OTS) microwave is installed directly above your range or cooktop instead of taking up room on your countertop. It serves two key functions - operating as a standard microwave oven for reheating and cooking while also acting as a range hood to ventilate the kitchen.

These built-in microwaves are sometimes referred to as over-the-range microwaves since they hover above the cooking range. They can be a great solution for small kitchens, apartments, and anywhere counter space comes at a premium.

Why Choose an Over-the-Stove Microwave?

Deciding to mount your microwave above your stove offers several advantages:

• Frees up limited counter space in your kitchen for other tasks
• Easy to access above the stove when cooking
• More affordable than custom cabinetry or shelves
• Two appliances in one - microwave and ventilation
• Some models include handy storage drawers

By keeping your microwave off the counter, you can reclaim some precious real estate for juicers, stand mixers, and other oft-used appliances. The overhead placement also makes it handy when you need to quickly heat up a side dish or beverage.

Safety First: Proper Ventilation and Mounting

When installing any microwave, safety should be a top concern. Microwaves release radiation when in use, so it's crucial to consider proper ventilation to remove cooking fumes and grease buildup.

We recommend installing a true microwave hood rather than just a shelf to allow for better ventilation. Microwave hoods include built-in fans and ductwork specifically designed to redirect heat, smoke, and odors outside.

Additionally, be sure to mount the microwave at the proper overhead clearance - at least 24-30 inches above the cooktop. This gives enough ventilation space for safety.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting your over-the-range microwave, keep the following features in mind:

• Size - Measure your existing space and stove to find the right dimensions.
• Ventilation power - Expressed in CFM (cubic feet per minute), look for at least 150 CFM.
• Cooking capacity - Larger ovens heat more evenly.
• Auto menus - Presets for one-touch cooking.
• Price - Compare prices online for the best deal.

Also consider brand reputation, warranty coverage, and customer reviews. Your microwave is a long-term investment, so choose wisely.

Installation Made Simple

Proper installation is key to getting the most out of your over-the-stove microwave. Here are some pointers:

• Hire a professional installer if uncomfortable doing it yourself.
• Electrical work may be required, especially for gas stoves.
• Ensure the mounting surface can bear the weight.
• Use metal ductwork to route ventilation outside.

Your installer will handle ductwork, ventilation, wiring, and securing the microwave safely. For a built-in look, add matching trim or cabinetry facade.

Design Ideas to Match Your Decor

An over-the-stove microwave doesn't have to be an eyesore. Use these design ideas to seamlessly incorporate it:

• Center above stove for symmetry.
• Add coordinated cabinetry or shelving for a unified look.
• Paint or use contact paper to match your color scheme.
• Install a decorative trim kit for a built-in aesthetic.
• Opt for a model with stainless steel or glass door.

Placement is key - installing off-center above the stove looks haphazard. With some creativity, your over-the-stove microwave can look like it came with the kitchen.

Alternatives to the Over-the-Stove Approach

While an over-the-stove microwave works well for many, it's not the only option. Alternatives include:

• Shelf or floating shelf
• Wall or cabinet mounting
• Countertop (takes up space)
• Custom built-in unit
• Microwave cart

Take into account your budget, kitchen layout, and aesthetic preferences. An over-the-fridge, built-in, or wall-mounted microwave may better suit your needs.

With its dual oven and vent, an over-the-stove microwave is a kitchen multitasker. Place it above your stove to open up counters and make cooking more convenient. Focus on proper installation for safety. With strategic design choices, it can seamlessly blend into your cook space.

This innovative appliance lets you maximize form and function. So free up some room, declutter your counters, and let microwave innovation enhance how you cook and use your kitchen.