Rules for installing a microwave oven: proximity to other equipment

In 2021, a resident of the Volgograd region won a lawsuit against manufacturers of household appliances after a microwave oven caught fire in his apartment, which led to a fire. The victim sued 4 million rubles because the court found that the microwave was installed correctly and the reason was a manufacturing defect.

To minimize the risk of equipment damage and fire, and to make the kitchen pleasing to the eye with harmony, we will tell you in this article how to place a microwave in large and small rooms.

How to install a microwave in the kitchen

When choosing kitchen appliances, including microwave ovens, consumers increasingly prefer more compact, easy-to-use models.
Microwave ovens can be either free-standing or built-in – it’s up to you to decide which one to choose. But it’s better to choose a place for the equipment in advance. And based on this, you should select a model. We will tell you how to install a microwave oven and where it is best to place it. It is also important to know how to properly connect an electrical appliance so that it can be used conveniently and as safely as possible. What types of microwave ovens are there?

Before moving directly to the installation stage, let's look at what microwave ovens exist. So:

• the simplest microwave ovens with a minimum set of functions (heating and defrosting);
• Microwave ovens with grilling function;
• models with a convection system that can easily replace your built-in oven.

Placing Built-in Models

Built-in models ease the installation problem
Most modern microwave models are built-in. This allows you to arrange them so that they take up little space and look monolithic with the kitchen set. As a rule, the first priority is to purchase kitchen furniture and after that you can start choosing a built-in model for the existing space.

There are several options for where you can place a built-in model of this type of equipment:

• under the tabletop;
• above the oven;
• in the kitchen island.

These are the most common options, but when making a custom-made set, you can provide another option for installing a microwave. It all depends on the layout and area of ​​the room. It is also worth considering the intensity of use of the device.

Choosing a location and method of embedding

The installation method for microwave ovens depends on their type and location. Today there are several options for installing a built-in microwave oven. After familiarizing yourself with them, you can determine the location for the electrical appliance.

The traditional and, perhaps, the most aesthetic installation method is to integrate the microwave oven directly into the kitchen unit.

You can order a cabinet for a microwave oven along with kitchen furniture. Or find a suitable size cabinet in an existing set.

In this way, you can place the stove, for example, under the countertop, above the stove, in the upper cabinet or any other place. The built-in model can also be placed in a plasterboard niche. This type of installation is more labor-intensive; preparation for it should begin during the renovation.

The most modern, compact type of installation is placement in a drawer. The body of the electrical appliance is built directly into the drawer of the kitchen furniture. To use the microwave, you just need to pull it out of the front. This placement saves kitchen space as much as possible, and also ideally disguises the appliance itself.

As for freestanding microwave ovens, there are more options for their installation. The easiest way is to place them on a countertop or other flat surface.

But such placement often takes up a lot of space, which is sometimes not enough in the kitchen. How to install a microwave, where to put it to save work space? And most importantly, can a regular microwave be built into kitchen furniture? We'll talk about this below.

In principle, installing a conventional microwave oven is possible, but important points should be taken into account.

The main thing is to ensure proper air circulation so that the microwave does not overheat during operation.

If the niche is too narrow, it will simply be impossible to ensure the flow of cold air and the removal of warm air. For the built-in model, this process is carried out through the front panel. Therefore, it does not require any gaps in the cabinet. For free-standing electrical appliances, this is the main condition for proper operation of the device.

In the case of a conventional microwave oven, the size of the niche directly depends on its dimensions.

For models with convection, the height and width of the niche should be 20 cm greater than the height and width of the oven, the depth - 10 cm. For conventional models, 10 cm on all sides will be enough. Select the installation location taking into account the location of the free outlet.

It is not advisable to use an extension cord to connect equipment to the network.

It is not recommended to place the device close to the hob, sink, or refrigerator. This may cause it to break. The distance between household devices must be at least 45 cm.

What type of microwave oven to choose

Microwaves are much smaller than refrigerators, but they always lack space. When it comes to placement, it turns out that there is a shortage of free space in the kitchen. If you place the stove on the countertop, a portion of the working surface will be lost, which is unjustified in a cramped kitchen. There are also miniature models, but their capabilities are limited.

If you want a microwave with different functions and auto modes, think in advance where to install it. If you have space in your kitchen cabinetry, it may be best to ditch the freestanding model in favor of a built-in one. This is a rational option that allows you to save space and fit your household appliance beautifully.

The installation method and location will depend on the type and dimensions of the equipment. If you buy a small model, it can be locked in a closet on any shelf.

All microwave ovens can be divided into:

• ordinary;
• small;
• built-in

The process of installing a microwave oven

If the location for the device is chosen taking into account the above recommendations, you can safely proceed to the installation process itself.

Let's look at the most common installation instructions. It involves performing the following steps:

1. Carefully inspect the equipment for damage and various defects.
2. In the operating instructions, find the installation section and read it.
3. If a mount is included, install it.
4. Make a hole in the cabinet wall to provide easy access to the electrical outlet when using the device.
5. Place the device in the cabinet, remove the cord, and insert the power plug into the outlet.
6. Install the frame if it is included with the built-in oven. How to secure it can be found in the instruction manual. In the case of a regular microwave, there are no decorative frames. Remember its need for proper heat dissipation.

As you can see, if you look at all the points, installing the equipment yourself is quite simple. But if you doubt your abilities, consult a specialist.

However, installation of a microwave oven should be carried out taking into account all recommendations and rules. Then the electrical appliance will work correctly and will serve you for many years.

Microwave installation

You bought a microwave oven. Before turning on the power, you need to install it correctly. Step-by-step instruction:

• Wipe the camera with a sponge lightly moistened with water. Be sure to check the tightness of the door. Make sure there is no damage: defects in the chamber or near the door.
• Place the microwave in its designated place: on a table or sturdy shelf. Weight varies depending on the model and can be 4-15 kg. When carrying the stove, keep in mind that it is heavier in front - do not lose your balance and drop it.
• To ensure proper ventilation, leave at least 10 cm of clearance between the back and sides of the appliance and other objects. The top of the stove should be at least 20 cm away from other surfaces.
• Remove the packaging material from the chamber. Replace the roller stand and turntable and check that it rotates.
• Ensure that all openings and ducts in the appliance are open. If they are blocked, the device may malfunction. Place the stove legs so that there is air flow to the bottom. Therefore, when placing the mat, make sure that there is a gap between it and the bottom cover.
• Damp or hot places are not suitable for installation - near radiators or stoves. Unfavorable proximity leads to damage to electronics and mechanical elements.
• You should not use the device at temperatures above 40°C.
• The installation surface must be level and durable.
• The oven can be plugged into an outlet with a current of 15 A.

People ask if it can be put in the dishwasher. According to the rules, it is recommended to place the device as far as possible from any equipment: from a radio to a computer. This is necessary to eliminate mutual influence of devices. Anyone can check that even mobile communications don’t work well near a microwave. But these rules have their own nuances, which we will discuss later.

What sizes

When you go shopping, measure the area where it will be placed. The dimensions of the models differ, so choose them taking into account your data - otherwise the purchase will not fit in the allotted space. Ovens with a depth of 30 cm will fit in a kitchen cabinet; deeper ones will have to be placed on the countertop or find another placement option.

Standard 15-17 l - the most popular option - has dimensions:

• width - up to 50 cm;
• depth - up to 40 cm;
• length and height - up to 30 cm.

Where to put the microwave oven

There are several installation methods:

• on the tabletop;
• hang on brackets - it is important to secure it securely and safely;
• for other household appliances - for example, for a washing machine (an option for a cramped kitchen);
• integrate into the headset;
• on the windowsill, if it is wide enough for this.

How to choose a built-in microwave oven (2019)

It is difficult to imagine a modern kitchen without a microwave. For some, it is just a convenient way to quickly heat up food, while others use it as a small oven for full-fledged cooking. In modern kitchens, a fully integrated microwave oven is increasingly being chosen.

Built-in technology has one undeniable advantage - aesthetics. Fitting harmoniously into the overall set, it does not take up extra space, does not get in the way, and does not distract attention to itself. Instead of the old-fashioned way of placing the microwave on top of the refrigerator, hiding it in the corner of the table, or coming up with a separate shelf for it, the built-in model has its own specific location.

Most often, microwave ovens are built above the oven in a corresponding high cabinet. But if you have a set made entirely to individual sizes, you can come up with your own separate wall cabinet for the device or build it under the countertop.

Method 1: Install the microwave under a wall cabinet

Installing a microwave under a cabinet. One of the most common methods of placing a microwave to minimize occupied space in the kitchen

It would be much more effective when using this installation method if the microwave oven had a special air circulation system or an additional hood. For standard furnaces, the situation may arise when installing additional ventilation. If you have chosen a place under a wall cabinet to place the microwave oven, carefully read the installation steps:

1. At the beginning of the work, you need to find load-bearing frame beams in the wall to secure the microwave to at least one. In the modern world, a special device has been invented for searching for beams; if a detector is not at hand, you can use the old, proven “old-fashioned” method, using a hammer. By tapping the wall and hearing a dull sound, you can find the beam and drill a small hole in the wall to confirm this. The vertical beam required for installing the microwave is located at a distance of 50 cm, on average, parallel. Outline the line of the found vertical beam, determining the width using a regular nail;
2. The next stage of work will be to determine the location for the special plate when installing the microwave. This is the main basis for creating a strong fastening; if the microwave kit comes with a special stencil, marking the holes will become much easier. The upper level of the plate must be tightly adjacent to the structure of the wall cabinet, and all decorating elements must be removed. If the cabinet has protrusions on the outer facade that interfere with the installation of the microwave oven, most likely they will have to be carefully cut down;
3. Each instruction manual describes a step-by-step, standard method for installing a microwave. To mount under a wall cabinet, you will need a template (stencil) that is attached to the base of the cabinet. We apply a stencil to the already determined place for the template, drill holes of the required diameter with a drill (remember that for a carriage screw - 5 mm, for screws and bolts - 10 mm). Also, you will have to drill an additional hole, about 4-5 mm in circumference, to route the microwave oven power cord. A prerequisite will be the presence of an outlet near the microwave installation; the use of extension cords is highly discouraged. If there is no electrical outlet nearby, it is recommended to install a new outlet;
4. An important step is to secure the plate for mounting the microwave, which will support the weight of the equipment during operation. The main rotors on which the bulk of the microwave will be concentrated are carriage screws, screwed into the frame vertical beam. A special device of folding bolts, special “wings”, firmly secures the template, twists while pulling the plate slightly towards itself;
5. The last stage of installation is the direct placement of the microwave oven. To avoid an emergency during the installation process, it is better to carry out the work together, at a minimum. Route the power cord to the power source, fix the oven, tightening all fastening screws to the maximum so that the microwave and the base of the cabinet fit snugly together.

Dimensions

The size of the built-in microwave is the first point from which you need to start selecting a device. The width, height, and depth of the stove are important. To clearly understand which models to choose from, you need to measure the inside of the microwave cabinet without taking into account the outer walls. Most models are available in the range of 55–56 cm in width, about the same in depth and about 38 cm in height. It should be taken into account that in the height parameters a decorative frame takes up several centimeters, which covers the outer walls of the cabinet. The height of the oven “box” itself will be less by about 4 centimeters.

Installation diagram for built-in microwave oven

Installation of built-in equipment is not difficult and does not require special knowledge. You can do it yourself.

Advice. Before installation, carefully read the operating instructions for the household appliance. It contains data for a specific model.

Installation of a microwave oven in a cabinet is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Prepare a place for installation - it must correspond to the dimensions of the device. The required furniture dimensions are indicated in the operating instructions.
2. New equipment is unpacked and inspected for damage.
3. Check for the presence of a separate outlet. The mains voltage must correspond to the voltage specified in the technical documentation. If there is no connection point to which the cord can reach, install a new one. This should be done by a qualified electrician. The use of extension cords, adapters, and tees is not recommended.
4. A hole is made in the back wall of the furniture so that equipment can be connected to an outlet. When installing some models, it is required that this part of the cabinet be completely absent.

5. A plastic-paper stencil, which comes with the microwave oven, is placed on the lower surface of the niche. Marks are made on it for fastening.
6. Fix the fastening element (clamp) with bolts in the designated places. Then carefully install the microwave oven. The cord is passed through the hole.
7. Then install the decorative frame that comes with the microwave.
8. The cord is connected to the power supply and the functionality of the device is checked.

Power and features

Conventionally, microwaves can be divided into two types - for heating food and for cooking. Low-power microwave ovens usually have rather limited functionality, while more advanced models may already be equipped with convection, grill and other useful options.

Models up to 800 W are mainly suitable only for heating food. In principle, you can cook in them, but the process will be slow, and not all recipes will be suitable. At the same time, such devices will also not warm up quickly - at least several minutes.

800–1000 W is the most standard power of devices. Allows you to cook any dish and quickly heats up food. Most often, such microwave ovens have several power modes – from low to high.

1000–1500 W – high-power devices. They handle cooking with ease, heat up food with lightning speed, and also have several operating modes.

The functionality of the microwave also needs to be selected based on your needs. It is worth saying that modern devices cope perfectly with any culinary tasks no worse than an oven. If 10–15 years ago food in microwaves did not always turn out well, now there are no such problems. Baked goods can be as tender and fluffy as in the oven, and various stews, porridges and other dishes can be juicy and cooked evenly.

Convection is the main assistant for cooks. Convection is the uniform ventilation of hot air inside the chamber. Due to the movement of hot air, any dish is cooked evenly on all sides. This is especially true if you cook in large quantities or love baking - in the convection mode, any dough rises better and better.

Grill – an additional heating element on the upper wall of the chamber. Allows you to achieve a crispy crust for any dish. The presence of a grill is worth paying attention to if you like hot sandwiches, fried meat and chicken, and grilled vegetables.

Defrosting - usually presented in several automatic modes depending on the type of product. Just select the desired option, and the microwave itself will select the power and defrosting time.

Cooking programs – in most models you can find ready-made modes for certain dishes. In some cases you need to choose the type and weight of the product, in others - a specific recipe. It is convenient because the device itself operates at optimal power and cooking time. All you have to do is press a couple of buttons and you can forget about cooking.

Combination modes - Please note that even if a microwave has both convection and grill, this does not mean that it can operate in both modes at the same time. Each model has its own capabilities for combined cooking modes. For example, convection + microwaves, grill + convection, etc.

Pros and cons of building in a microwave

The main advantage of built-in household appliances is saving space in the kitchen. A compact microwave oven is installed in a closet, pencil case, niche, occupying the entire space, leaving no useless idle areas. Other advantages of such ovens:

• Large volume. Despite their compactness, built-in microwaves are not inferior to conventional ones in internal dimensions. This allows you to heat food on large plates or place several dishes inside at once.
• Quality and functionality. Built-in models are produced for long-term use, which is why they have an extended service life and additional protection against overheating, moisture, and power failures. Since such microwaves are made only by popular brands for the high price segment, they are almost always equipped with a grill, convection, automatic doors, an improved display and other additional functions.
• Hygiene. The microwave completely occupies its niche, which eliminates the accumulation of dust and debris in the cabinet. Installation inside the cabinet will protect the internal gaps, cracks, and buttons of the stove itself from contamination, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns. All that is required from the owner is to periodically wipe the door frame of the device.
• Aesthetics. The integrated microwave merges with the facade of the kitchen, eliminates voids and cracks, does not spoil the appearance with wires, and therefore looks better in the interior. This stove fits especially well with a country or classic style design, where openly standing modern appliances look out of place.

Disadvantages of built-in microwaves:

• Difficulty of repair. If the stove fails, you will have to dismantle it to transport the device to a service center. The same problem will arise when moving or rearranging the interior - the need to remove and reinstall the microwave will waste extra time and effort.
• High price. With equal quality and functionality, built-in models are 20% more expensive than regular ones.
• Difficult to install. To install the stove, you will have to take your own measurements, buy fasteners, carry out ventilation, and ensure the connection of the device to the electrical network. For safety, it is recommended that two people work together. The alternative is to pay professionals for installation, but this will result in additional costs.
• Impossibility of replacement. Built-in stoves are unique in size, so it is impossible to install another model in the same niche. Due to the rapid change of lines, it will also be difficult to buy the same microwave. If the appliance malfunctions, you will have to change the interior of the kitchen or be content with a free-standing stove.

Problems with built-in microwaves arise from the inability to move them. If the appliance is placed poorly, this can create difficulties with cleaning, maintenance, and heating food, so you need to choose carefully.

Additional options

The comfort of using technology depends not only on the main functions, but also on the little things. Everything from the door opening to the interior materials matters.

The maximum timer time is important if you plan to use the microwave for cooking. Varies mainly from 30 minutes to several hours. If you like recipes with long simmering times, choose 90 minutes or more so that you don’t have to manually start the process again.

Delayed start is not present in all models, but it can be useful if you clearly plan your time and do not like to be distracted by household chores. You can, for example, marinate meat in the morning by programming the microwave to turn on for the evening - a delicious, hot dinner is ready for your arrival.

Mute the sound. All microwave ovens indicate the end of the cooking cycle with a sound signal. But this can become a hindrance if there is a small child with a light sleep in the house or you do not live alone in a studio apartment. Although this is not the most important option, it is sometimes very pleasant.

Design

Built-in microwaves have an attractive facade and a “rough” body that is completely hidden in the furniture. The front part of the device can be made in a variety of styles - from strict steel high-tech to vanilla Provence with bronze handles. Selecting a model to match the overall style of the kitchen and other appliances will not be difficult.

If we talk about design features, it is worth mentioning that not all modern microwave ovens have a traditional door opening. Nowadays there are many models with a door that hinges from top to bottom in the style of an oven. The choice depends solely on your convenience. However, it is worth considering the height of the microwave - if it is installed too high, the hinged door can create significant inconvenience.

The diameter of the tray will dictate how you can use a particular dish. Usually it is from 24 to 32, less often 36 cm in a microwave oven. There are trays that are larger, but this is already rare. Pay attention to this detail if you not only plan to cook with it, but also in large quantities. Due to the fact that the tray rotates during operation of the microwave, it is strictly not recommended to use dishes that are significantly larger than the tray.

By the way, modern microwave ovens are often equipped not only with a rotating tray, but also with baking trays at different levels.

The inside of microwave ovens is usually lined with either stainless steel or enamel .

Enamel is more affordable, easy to clean, and looks nice (if it’s important for you to admire the inside of the device). It cannot be cleaned with powders or hard brushes. Over time, it can gradually chip and provoke rust in the cracks.

Rating of built-in microwave ovens

Popular models of built-in microwave ovens:

The popularity rating among Russian users includes mainly small-sized budget models. Fans of wide functionality should pay attention to microwave ovens from Samsung, Hansa, Siemens, Kuppersberg, Ariston.

What is the problem with installing a microwave on a refrigerator?

A microwave oven, like a refrigerator, is an isolated device. This means that microwaves propagate exclusively in the interior of the appliance, and the cooled air produced by the refrigerator does not leave the chambers. Thus, these techniques can theoretically coexist with each other .

But in fact, there are a number of arguments against installing a microwave on a refrigerator:

1. The distance from the microwave to the ceiling should be at least 20 cm, which is not always possible to achieve.
2. When a microwave is used for a long time and frequently, a lot of warm air is released, making it difficult for the neighboring unit to cool the food .
3. There is an increased risk heated liquid or food on yourself
4. If the refrigerator is not installed level, it will vibrate a lot. This can lead to displacement and even a drop in the microwave frequency .
5. Some microwave oven models have vents on the bottom . And if you screw the legs of the appliance, it will not be able to stand stably on the refrigerator.

Having assessed the situation, some users decide to place the microwave next to the refrigerators. In this case, the devices will not affect each other’s functioning.

How to properly install a microwave

Considering the need to provide ventilation when the microwave is operating, the most suitable places can be identified. The distance between the back panel and the wall should be at least 15 cm. Based on this criterion, we will analyze possible positions where you can place the microwave.

When installing a microwave on a countertop, it is very convenient to place it in a corner kitchen wall. It can also be placed on a low cabinet. In this position, it does not occupy a convenient space for cooking and technical standards are met.

The microwave must be mounted on the wall using special brackets or a stand. This method will allow you to find the most convenient place in the kitchen:

• hang above the desktop if there are no hanging cabinets nearby;
• attach near the dining table or other options.

It is undesirable, but acceptable in some models, to make a microwave element of a built-in kitchen. In this case, the stove can be located either in a hanging cabinet or adjacent to one of the sides close to the cabinet wall (depending on the design of the ventilation outlets and the density of the metal frame of the equipment). In this case, for ease of use, it is worth considering the location of the oven door and cabinets.

Often in the kitchen there are appliances that are not directly related to cooking - a TV and a gas boiler. In principle, these elements can be located next to each other while complying with safety standards.

If the microwave is located near an installed gas boiler, it is important that the column is of a closed type: it is dangerous to allow steam to connect with an open burner.

A possible option is to install a microwave next to the TV. Modern plasma models are usually placed high on the wall for maximum convenience and visibility. Thus, the operation of the microwave is unlikely to affect the operation of the TV if there are no such restrictions in the instructions. It’s another matter if the idea arises of putting a TV on a microwave - such a combination is hardly possible. If the oven is used for a long time, the heating of the panel may melt the plastic stand of the TV, and the release of hot air will affect the screen.

What is written in the instructions

The operating rules of most manufacturers do not provide for the possibility of installing one device on another. The instructions do not say anything about this, but the risks associated with such an arrangement must be taken by the owner of the devices .

The microwave overloads the refrigerator's compressor, causing it to use more electricity. The compartments become warmer, and the engine may wear out prematurely and fail.

If the fact that the microwave oven and refrigerator are adjacent is known to the service department, warranty repairs will most likely be denied. But these actions are illegal if the instructions do not directly prohibit them.

You can minimize the impact of microwaves on the refrigeration chamber by following the rules for its installation. In this case, the devices can work for years without breaking.

How to hang a microwave on the wall

The most ergonomic and safest option for placing a microwave oven is to hang it on the wall. This method is chosen by families with small children and residents of small apartments. But in order for the design to be durable and beautiful, you need to take into account many nuances.

Preparation

The first thing you need to do before installing the microwave on the bracket is to prepare the place where it will be mounted.

Attention! Since the bracket and the device placed on it have significant weight, it is worth making sure that the wall on which the structure will be attached is strong. It is preferable that the wall be concrete or brick - drywall does not always guarantee complete safety of the fastenings

The second thing you need to do is measure the dimensions of the device, select suitable brackets for them, calculate the distance between the holes for fastenings, and check the building level.

In order not to make a mistake with the location of the wall-mounted microwave oven, it is worth consulting several times with all family members on this issue. Moving the bracket will be problematic, and there will be traces of the fastenings on the wall, so it’s better to immediately think about all the possible nuances.

Required tools and materials

Many manufacturing companies install microwave ovens on brackets. But such a service costs a lot, and therefore many householders decide to implement this idea on their own. In order to hang a microwave oven on the wall, you will need the following set of tools:

• electric drill or hammer drill;
• screwdriver;
• building level;
• roulette;
• pencil for marks.

Apart from this, you will need some materials. Namely:

• fasteners for your type of wall (anchor bolts, dowels, etc.);
• construction tape;
• the brackets themselves;
• corner shelf (if the device is placed in the corner of the room).

Advice! When purchasing brackets and fasteners, you should make sure that all elements fit together. Manufacturers usually provide detailed information about various fastening methods on the product packaging.

Bracket selection

A microwave bracket is a structure consisting of a crossbar and L-shaped holders attached to it perpendicularly. You need to choose a stand for this device only from those models that are designed specifically for microwave ovens.

There are several parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing a suitable bracket:

• maximum permissible weight - you should add a few kilograms to the weight of the device to account for the food heated in it and choose a bracket with a good margin of safety;
• the size of the bracket must correspond to the dimensions of the microwave oven;
• retractable supports are preferable to stationary models, since in the future it will be possible to install another microwave model on the same shelf, in addition, the ability to move the device can be a big plus when operating and washing the device;
• The presence of rubberized inserts will help secure the microwave to the bracket more securely; with them, the risk of “dropping” the stove is minimized.

In addition, you should pay attention to the color of the bracket. Standard models come in white, black, silver and golden shades - matching the common colors of various household appliances and kitchen design elements

Metal bracket

The size must correspond to the dimensions of the microwave oven

On a note! Many manufacturers of microwave ovens offer customers to purchase brackets for each specific model, which greatly simplifies the search for a suitable support, saving time and money.

Fastening stages

A properly mounted bracket on the wall is the key to safe use of the stand and microwave

That is why it is important to follow a certain procedure. To attach the bracket to the wall, you must:

1. Measure the distance between the two crossbars of the bracket, corresponding to the length of the microwave, mark the mounting points on the wall with a pencil;
2. Check the levelness of the marks using a building level;
3. To avoid scattering construction waste throughout the room, stick construction tape under the marks;
4. Drill the required number of holes with a drill or hammer drill in accordance with the markings;
5. Drive dowels into the resulting holes;
6. Attach each of the corners in turn with the holes to the dowels, insert self-tapping screws into them and tighten tightly.

At the end, you can check the horizon again using a level, and, if necessary, redo the holes. Special plugs are installed on all open parts of the fasteners.

In what cases can an exception be made?

Placing a microwave oven on the refrigerator body is allowed in the following cases:

1. The microwave is used occasionally and no longer than 5-7 minutes in a row. In this case, the equipment and the air around it will not overheat.
2. It is possible to ensure normal ventilation of devices. Preference should be given to stove models with ventilation holes on the side or at the top.
3. Unhindered access to the microwave will be provided .

To save space, you can purchase a built-in microwave. It is easy to hide behind the facade of the kitchen unit.

Method 2: Install the microwave on a shelf or cabinet

Installed microwave oven on a shelf. An effective method of placing a microwave in a residential area; the open design ensures maximum ventilation of equipment

The most widely used method for positioning a microwave oven. Before installation, you must ensure that the vents are as open as possible and that there is no packing paper on the ventilation openings. Placement on a shelf, countertop or other table does not require the use of physical actions associated with drilling holes or punching a supporting beam behind the wall, in contrast to the wall-mounted method of installing a microwave. To position the oven correctly and maintain the optimal distance from the nearest wall or cabinet wall, it is important to know some of the ventilation features of the microwave model you have chosen:

• Many manufacturers allocate space for ventilation holes on the side of the cabinet and at the top of the oven, but there is a range of microwaves with rear compartments for ventilation;
• If it is difficult to determine the exhaust openings by visual inspection, you can use the following method. Place the equipment on a flat surface (on a table, for example) and turn it on by selecting one of the modes. During operation, you need to run your hand along the side panels, back and top walls of the microwave. The warm air flow created during the process of heating food will let you know where the ventilation compartment is located in this microwave model.

So, let's look at the stages of properly installing a microwave oven on a shelf or in a cabinet:

Installed microwave oven in the closet. It is possible not to disturb the created designer interior in the kitchen if the selected microwave oven does not match the color scheme of the entire set. Equipment can be hidden in a small cabinet

1. After removing all packaging material from the microwave oven, inspecting for visible defects, and checking that the door is tightly pressed to the body, you need to install the microwave on a flat, flat surface. It is worth giving preference to one that has high strength and can withstand the weight of the equipment;
2. All additional components, in the form of a rotating plate, must be installed after the microwave has been completely fixed and checked;
3. When installing on a shelf or in a cabinet, you need to check in advance the availability of a direct connection of the microwave to the network (the presence of an outlet), whether the power cable is long enough to reach it. And also provide and prepare an outlet for the cord in a shelf or cabinet. You should definitely leave open access to the electrical socket in case of unforeseen circumstances (fire, power surges and other emergencies);
4. The main condition for installing a microwave is good air circulation. The gap from the walls of the shelf or cabinet to the stove body must be at least 4-5 cm. Closing the ventilation compartments with other materials is prohibited, be it decorating with designer items or false protection from dust (towel, for example).

How to install a microwave oven on a refrigerator correctly

Having figured it out, you can place microwaves on refrigerators; you should pay attention to the rules for its placement:

1. There should be a gap of 20 cm at the top, and at the back and sides - at least 10 cm .
2. The stove should be located slightly below the person's shoulder . If the height of the refrigerator is 170 cm or more, it is not recommended to place any equipment on it. The only exception is if the person’s height is more than 2 m.
3. To prevent heating of the surface of the refrigerator, chipboard, rubber or plywood is placed . It is prohibited to use tablecloths, paper, oilcloth or cellophane for these purposes - such materials can melt or even ignite.

If the microwave is installed correctly, adult family members can use it freely, and children will not be able to drop the device on themselves.

What not to put in the microwave

In order to save space, many people prefer to use the microwave as an additional shelf and place a kettle on it, without particularly wondering whether this can be done. Some people use it for bread boxes, flowers and other items. This is fundamentally wrong, as there may be undesirable consequences. Many stove models have a ventilation strip on the top panel; if water, crumbs and other small solid particles get there, the appliance can burn out.

Above the microwave, on a separate shelf at a certain distance, you can install other interior items.

Despite the fact that popular items that are placed in the microwave are a teapot and flowers, there are many other nuances. The question of whether it is possible to put a mobile phone on a microwave is hotly debated. The negative impact of devices on operation has not been proven, but theoretically, a magnetic field is formed around a working oven, which affects the magnetic strip of the SIM card in the phone. Its charge level may also decrease faster. You should not conduct experiments: if you put the phone on a working microwave and nothing happened, this does not mean that there can be regular contact between the devices. After all, the microwave can get very hot, and how a hot panel will affect the phone’s body is anyone’s guess. This rule also applies to the location of the laptop on it. Surely the zone of influence of the telephone, portable devices and oven is difficult to determine, much less prove.

If there is a large window with large window sills, many housewives begin to use them not only for flowers, but also as an additional surface for equipment.

To make it clear where to place the microwave, it is necessary to divide the kitchen area into several parts and define the concepts: the ideal place according to technical standards, what is strictly prohibited and what are the undesirable areas.

Safety precautions

If the microwave is on the refrigerator, you need to take into account the features of its operation:

1. Sockets must be grounded. Due to fire safety requirements, one socket cannot be used for two devices, even through an adapter. Otherwise, the network will be overloaded.
2. You need to make sure that the wires do not come into contact with the back wall of the refrigerator. It does not matter whether the unit is equipped with a know frost system.
3. There should not be any water sources nearby.
4. Do not install the microwave near heating devices.

To use the microwave safely, it must stand firmly on the surface of the refrigerator body.

Places you shouldn't use

Along with places that can be used to install a microwave oven, there are also places that are absolutely not suitable for this. There are several of them:

• above the radiator;
• close to the hob;
• next to the TV;
• under direct sunlight;
• above the stove;
• on the refrigerator.

All of these locations are unsuitable because they do not comply with microwave oven regulations. In each case, the device will be exposed to negative factors that can cause operational problems.

Consumer Opinion

To understand whether it is rational to place a microwave on a refrigerator, it is worth studying user reviews. People have different opinions on this matter. Some believe that appliances stacked on top of each other spoil the interior of the kitchen. In addition, to use it, a child or short person may need to stand on a chair, which is unsafe.

Others argue that baking on the refrigerator is the best option. Small children cannot reach it , so they cannot experiment with heating spoons and other inappropriate objects. And if the room is small, there may not be another place for the device.

Choosing a place for a microwave - basic rules

Most modern city apartments dating back to the period of Soviet development cannot be called spacious. As a rule, all household appliances are placed in them according to the simple principle “any free corner fits”. However, if you follow some rules, it is quite possible to correctly and functionally place all household appliances, including a microwave oven.

You should not install the microwave too low to the floor, as it will be very inconvenient to use. The distance between it and the floor should range from 0.6 to 1.5 meters. You should also not place the microwave oven too high, as you can easily get burned when taking out heated food.

It is necessary to calculate the height so that it is comfortable for all family members, both large and small. It is preferable that there is a tabletop nearby on which you can immediately place a hot plate.

It is undesirable for a microwave oven to be adjacent to heating appliances and an oven. It should not come into contact with the refrigerator. Do not install other household appliances (kettle, coffee maker) on the microwave oven. You need to make sure that the microwave door opens freely and does not hit any obstacles.

Alternative accommodation options

If in the end it was decided to place the microwave in another place, you should pay attention to the following options:

1. On the kitchen countertop . In this case, you should make sure that there is enough free space on the working surface. The distance from the microwave to the sink and stove must be at least 50 cm.
2. On the windowsill . In this case, problems with ventilation may arise, but if the window is wide, there will be a suitable place for the stove.
3. In a ventilated cabinet . To find the optimal solution, it is recommended to consult with the headset designer.
4. Using special brackets or a shelf, you can place the microwave in the desired area, even if the kitchen design has already been formed. Most often, the stove is hung above the work surface.
5. Above the oven . This idea can be brought to life at the stage of integrating units into the headset. It is necessary to take into account that the devices must have equal width.

Basic rules for installing the device

To ensure that when using a microwave oven it remains operational for as long as possible, you should follow some rules when installing this device. There are several of them:

• The distance from equipment that generates heat during operation must be at least 15 cm.
• The maximum placement height should be no more than 1.5 m.
• A distance of at least 15 cm must be maintained from the wall or adjacent side of another surface to the microwave body.

It is also worth considering that the surface for installing the microwave oven must be perfectly flat and as stable as possible. This is necessary not only for ease of use, but also to prevent damage to equipment during operation.

In addition, it is better to place the device no higher than arm’s length, otherwise using it will be very problematic.

Where to put a microwave in the kitchen - 25 successful solutions

To place the necessary attributes - a refrigerator, sink and stove, we have already come up with the rule of the working triangle, which allows you to rationally organize the kitchen space. A microwave in the kitchen has become an equally important item in any modern family. But there are no specific recommendations for its placement.

Where to place the microwave in the kitchen so that it is convenient to use? Choose the option that suits you from the recommendations below.

You can get a lot of ideas from this video:

Why is it important to choose the right location?

It is important for a microwave to find a suitable place
When placing a microwave in the kitchen, a place must be chosen so that it is not only convenient to use it, but the risk of damage to the device is eliminated. If placed incorrectly under the influence of a number of factors, malfunctions may occur in the operation of the microwave oven or it may completely fail.

Another reason why it is necessary to carefully consider the placement of this equipment is the safety of the inhabitants of the home. This point is especially relevant if there are small children among the residents. In this case, the microwave should be placed in such a way that access to it is impossible for small residents.

If it is not possible to find an inaccessible place for placement, you should choose a model of equipment with child protection.

Basic rules for placement

Since you have to use a microwave oven often, you need to pay due attention to where it is placed.

General requirements for placement:

• optimal height from the floor – 60-150 cm;
• should not be placed near a stove, oven, radiator or other heating appliances;
• position it so that you can easily reach it with your hand;
• do not place the microwave oven next to the sink;
• make sure that nothing prevents the door from opening and closing;
• ventilation openings must not be blocked. They are usually located on the top panel. If particles of food or water get there, the device may burn;
• Do not store interior items or kitchen utensils on the appliance.

Ignoring advice on ergonomic and safe placement is not recommended. Due to improper use, the microwave oven will quickly break down, and if it is inconveniently positioned, you risk spilling hot food on yourself and getting burned.

Rules for placing a microwave oven

To begin with, it is worth noting that there are a huge number of options for how to place a microwave oven in the kitchen. But even if you leave this device on the table or kitchen cabinet, you will have to take care of some installation nuances.

So, a few rules for placing a microwave:

1. The first thing to consider is the height of the device. All family members (except small children) should be able to easily reach the microwave;
2. The device should not be located close to the wall or the walls of cabinets, refrigerators, etc. It is necessary to leave at least a couple of centimeters of free space to allow air access to the ventilation holes;
3. A microwave above the refrigerator is not the best option, even if the latter is short in height. The heating surface of the oven can lead to malfunctions of the freezer;
4. To prevent washing your microwave oven from becoming a regular activity, you should not place it near the stove. In addition, being located next to a sink can cause a short circuit;
5. A window sill can be an excellent place for a microwave, but a problem can arise in winter due to the temperature difference between the device and the cold window - condensation easily forms on it;
6. Another important condition is that the microwave oven should be placed at a distance of at least two meters from electronically controlled appliances;
7. If you have indoor plants in a certain place in the kitchen, the oven should be placed away from them to avoid the influence of harmful, in this case, microwave radiation.

Placement options
In general, you need to choose a location for the microwave in which all family members will have free access to it, and at the same time the device will not interfere with the opening and closing of the unit doors, passage and use of other devices.