Yes, it is a good idea to put a microwave above your gas stove. However, you should ensure that the distance between the gas stove and the microwave is at least 30 inches to ensure safety and prevent appliance damage.
The microwave should have a vent at its bottom to prevent damage caused by overheating while in use.
What are the Reasons for Putting a Microwave above a Gas Stove?
As a regular kitchen user and homeowner, one of the reasons for putting a microwave above a gas stove is to save on space.
Since they are not that dangerous when space is observed between them it can really help one to organize the kitchen.
Having the microwave above the stove leaves me with enough space on the countertop to work with and makes the kitchen look less cluttered and more organized.
And because the order is what makes my kitchen appealing I will vow for it any time.
The other reason is that having the microwave above the stove ensures that all my cooking appliances are positioned within reach. It makes the cooking process to be easy and also reduces kitchen accidents.
This will give you more flexibility when preparing and cooking your meals.
Imagine a scenario where you can defrost your chicken in the microwave while cooking your vegetables on your gas stove while standing at the same spot.
What should be the Safest Distance between your microwave and the Gas Stove?
Placing a microwave above a gas stove should not be done haphazardly, more so if your stove has powerful burners.
The microwave should be in the correct position to ensure the efficient use of these appliances.
The first thing to note is that not all microwaves are designed for above-the-gas stove placement.
Microwaves designed to be placed above a stove have vents at the bottom.
Place the microwave at least 66 inches from the floor to the microwave.
There should be a 30-inch distance between the bottom of the microwave and the top of the gas stove.
If your microwave has vents at the top or on the sides, ensure no obstructions around the vents if you decide to place them above a gas stove.
When you follow the above steps when setting your microwave and gas stove you and everyone else are safe
Can Steam Emanating from the Pots while Cooking Damage your Microwave?
If you install your microwave considering the recommended spacing, the steam coming from your pans and pots will not be close enough to damage your microwave.
Although you might see some steam-producing water droplets on the microwave door, you can easily wipe it off using a soft cloth.
Occasionally, steam will pass through your microwave door, causing fog buildup on the glass.
The reason is that air freely passes through the glass doors of such appliances.
If you notice fog on the inside of the glass door, open the door for at least five minutes.
This will lead to evaporation of the moisture from the glass door.
Pros of Placing your Microwave above the Gas Stove
Firstly, microwaves placed above the stove have vents that can double up as hood vents.
You can set the microwave to circulate air in the kitchen or vent outside.
The circulation option is ideal in kitchen spaces where it is difficult or costly to vent outside, or there is no option for venting outside.
Secondly, a microwave placed above the stove clears counter space.
If your kitchen is small with limited preparation space, the microwave above the gas stove will open usable square footage.
You may have enough space on your kitchen counter, but a bulky microwave may alter the look you want to create in your kitchen.
Cons of Placing your Microwave above the Gas Stove
Microwaves above gas stoves are inconvenient for short users as they are mounted at least 13 inches above the gas stove.
This can make it challenging to cook for shorter people and be tedious when cleaning the microwave.
If you have younger children who use the microwave regularly, they will have to use a stool to reach the microwave or wait until they attain the right height.
Final Take
It is a good idea to place your microwave above your gas stove. Ensure that you mount the microwave considering the proper distance between it and the gas stove.
Also, ensure that the microwave has vents underneath it to guarantee the safety and effectiveness of the appliances.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.