No extra framing was needed. Higher-watt microwaves help to provide better quality results, especially with convection cooking. When we were designing our new kitchen, I knew right away that I wanted an under counter microwave in our island. Even though the class action was over, they acted as if they would replace the microwave if they could verify the fire. Have a licensed professional do the electrical work. For some people, other factors are more important than the cost. Your cabinet manufacturer can probably supply a length of matching stock. Expert step-by-step DIY directions for installing a microwave door, including selecting size, cabinet alterations, and more. If youre considering a drawer microwave, keep reading to learn all about how they work, the pros and cons, and more. Although it is nice not hearing the kids slamming the door closed. The instructions say that the plug has to be in the top left corner of the cabinet. Are there any tips on keeping safe for use as we have been reading about fires. This post may contain affiliate links. Shopping for home improvement essentials has never been easier. Delicious meals are just moments away when you incorporate microwave drawers into your elegant kitchen design. A 24-inch drawer requires a 22 1/8 opening width and a 30-inch drawer requires a 28 1/2-inch opening width. Manufacturers spec sheets are famously imprecise and often confusing. The technician said, "yup you definitely had a fire," took photos, and said it wasn't working properly -- to me. We also added a gorgeous French Lacanche Range that is a showstopper and panel ready appliances. The older I get I think it's going to get even harder. This is 24 in a 30 cabinet. Many people love the modern, sleek design of having a microwave in their island. They are often installed below an upper cabinet, above awall oven, or even as part of the lower cabinetry in a kitchen island. Hi! If putting it in a framed 24" cab, alteration would be necessary. A built-in microwave drawer may be the answer to one of kitchen remodelings eternal questions: where to place the microwave, without a) sacrificing valuable counter workspace or, b) creating another major project of reconfiguring the ventilation system above the cooktop. If your answer is yes, maybe it would mean a few extra months of saving. The cabinet people told me that I need support for both sides installing the microwave. The anti-tip block should be screwed to the cabinet sidewall. I would imagine it's the same for the 30. Generally,higherwattmicrowaves cook meals faster. This picture shows the drawer open, in my 24" frameless cabinet. How Does an Under Counter Microwave Work? A microwave drawer can give homeowners the ability to tuck this appliance under the counter in their kitchen design. I dont have any experience with an undercounter, just the drawer. If you do need to trim, you can use a router with a trim bit and guide or a reciprocating saw to enlarge the opening. With a helper, set the complete microwave unit on blocks inside the cabinet, using shims to get it to exactly the right height, parallel to the bottom of the countertop and/or top rail. Ft. 950 Watt Drawer Microwave with Sensor Cooking, 24 Inch Wide 1.2 Cu. Another factoid for your decision matrix: The 24" and 30" Sharp microwave drawers have the SAME interior capacity. Now that youve weighed all the microwave drawer pros and cons and determined that it may just be the perfect appliance for your kitchen, its time to pick out the best one to suit your space. :). Don has: Over 30 years experience as a remodeler and builder. Written more than 30 home improvement books. Served as Senior Editor at Home Magazine. Appeared as a segment host on HGTVs The Fixfor 3 seasons. Been a featured expert on MSN.com, US News, and many others. Learn more about the trusted HomeTips brand! accurate shipping estimates, product availability info, 24 Inch Wide 1.2 Cu. Also, these are the only microwaves that dont rely on turntables to heat food, so the parts are unique. I have 15"pullout cabinets with drawers on either side of the microwave though. If you want the microwave drawer look and function, youre going to pay more for it. Ft. 1200 Watt Countertop Microwave with Smart Inverter, 21 Inch Wide 1.1 Cu. They provide all the functionality youd expect in a traditional microwave but feature a unique drawer design that you can incorporate into your lower built-in cabinetry. It was the most visually unobtrusive option, and you all know that I love a clean, minimalist kitchen. Some homeowners like to stack their microwave drawer just under a wall oven, so all of their cooking appliances are together in one place. I needed every last inch to make my design work. However, if youre considering the form, function, and premium features of a microwave drawer, the higher cost may be worth it to you. The microwave isn't particularly heavy. No advantage to it other than to enable you to use an existing 30" cab. Don Vandervort writes or edits every article at HomeTips. The opening height for both sizes must be 14 3/4-inch. As with any built-in appliance, the installation is more complicated than choosing a countertop microwave and plugging it in. Maybe they love the sleek, uncluttered look of having a microwave in their island. Only the door is wider in the 30." Ft. 1000 Watt Undercounter Drawer Microwave with 12 Sensor Cook Settings, FREE Standard Ground Shipping on Orders over $49, See complete Promotional Terms and Conditions, Providesa high-end and custom look to yourkitchen, Ideal for both right-handed and left-handed people, Incredibly smooth drawer mechanics ensure liquids dont spill, Large-capacity designs accommodate large casserole dishes andmore, No turntable to fuss with, resulting in extra room and a streamlined design, Access from above to stir dishes, add ingredients, andmake adjustmentswithout removing the dish from themicrowave, Free up countertops and space in your upper cabinetry design, Easy to incorporate into a kitchenisland, ADA solution because they are lower and easier to reach into,especiallywith heavydishes, More expensive than most other microwaves, Can require a professional electrician to add proper wiring, Can sometimes require professional installation unless you are particularly handy. Filler pieces. Technically, you can put an over-oven microwave in an island IF the ventilation comes out the top front. Thank you! Heres a bit more about each one. Microwave drawers are one of those kitchen appliances you may not know you need until you experience them for yourself. You gave us information that I didnt see anywhere else online, and you helped us make a decision on our purchase! There are three main types of microwaves: countertop, over-oven (aka built-in), and under-counter (aka microwave drawer). And finally, the parts are high-quality and up-to-date, which means they will cost more. Subscribe now for coupons, exclusive deals, and inspiration! When youre trying to determinewhetherto feature this pull-out wonder in your home, consider the pros and consof microwave drawers. Phone: (800) 375-3403, Email: cs@build.com402 Otterson Dr. STE 100, Chico, CA 95928 20002022 Build.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved. If you do not receive the coupon soon, check your spam folder. Thats it! A 24-inch microwave drawer has a top overlay of 3/8-inch, a bottom overlap of 1/8-inch and a side overlap of 1-inch. Youd need to build a base for it to sit on, add brackets for it to rest on, and make sure it is ventilating properly. Additional restrictions apply. Proper Distance Between Cooktop & Cabinet, How to Replace the Light Bulb in an Amana Radarange Microwave Oven, Copyright 2022 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Lifestyle, All Rights Reserved. I am putting mine in a 30" cab so that if I want to swap it out one day for a steam oven or an Advantium, I have that option. I love my Sharp MW Drawer. For the latest trends and design inspiration, sign up for the Build with Ferguson catalog or browse the online version today. Many styles of cabinetry can work in conjuction with microwave drawers as long as they have the requisite specifications. Outside width: 24 or 30 (24 is the most popular size), Interior measurements (same for 24 and 30 models): 17 5/16 W x 7 1/8 H x 16 9/16 D (1.2 cu. I have decided to purchase the Sharp black stainless steel product but it only comes in a 24" width. Many warming drawers offer additional features, as well. Thats worth it for years of enjoying what you want, right? It has side walls to the cabinet that indeed DO support the countertop. If not, try cutting out the back of the cabinet to gain more space. Improved accessibility is a big reason many people choose to go with under counter microwaves. Some units operate with both, and all other electronic controls are usually mounted on the drawer front. My plug is located in the center of my 27-inch cabinet, but towards the top of the opening. New subscribers will receive a 5% off couponfor total savings up to $200. You may also order new doors or drawer fronts of the correct size to finish the opening below the microwave installation. Ft. Built-In Microwave with 1000W Cooking Power, 30 Inch Wide 1.7 Cu. Microwave drawers come as preassembled, self-contained units with ventilation systems built in. For others, they love the improved accessibility it offers. They are commonly installed in your base cabinets, and the size of your cabinets must be able to accomodate the width and weight of a microwave drawer. They feature a traditional swing-out door and often incorporate a vent into the bottom of the design to double as your range exhaust. If the cabinet doesnt have a face frame, you may have to add some 1-by-2s or some other form of filler panels to the inside of the cabinet sides to narrow the opening and provide an adequate fastening surface for the microwave drawer flange, which will ultimately be screwed to the cabinet face to hold the unit in place. lol Also, I love that it is hidden in the island and not a visual distraction within my upper cabinets. Close the drawer with another touch of a button. It is basically a modified 3 drawer stack with the micro taking the place of the top two drawers. Ft. 1000 Watt Over the Range Microwave, 30 Inch Wide 1.8 Cu. That's a 36" induction cooktop, a 24" Sharp Drawer MW, and double ovens. I wanted the microwave to be next to the stove but he said the "microwave" needs support, so he added a spice rack next to it. In general, 24, 30 or 33-inch cabinets are required. HomeTips articles may contain links to Amazon.com and other partner programs that provide helpful products and services. Please read our disclosure policy. Simply put, a microwave in the island is a lot easier to reach and clean. I really haven't noticed opening and closing the drawer to be bothersome. Most manufacturers recommend that the outlet be positioned in the back of the cabinet at the top. containerEl: '#fd-form-613a59a67accb4c021020376' She also has degrees in economics and business and teaching. Microwave drawers are an alternative to traditional microwaves that open with a door. Buehl you are a virtual treasure trove! Join me in celebrating the simple joys of life with easy recipes, effortless home decor, entertaining ideas and more! I had a regular bag of microwave popcorn go on fire, and I complained. Only you can decide that. For more information see our disclosures, Laminate, Bamboo, and Vinyl Plank FlooringBuying Guide, Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner Buying & Installing, Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Home's Plumbing, Home Depots selection of microwave drawers. You need to establish a shelf or platform for the microwave drawer to rest on. More accessible, less noticeable and highly space efficient, microwave drawers are a welcome newcomer in kitchen appliances, Its not how many drawers you have in your kitchen; its how they work for you, See the pros and cons of locating your microwave above, below and beyond the counter, Energy zapped from trying to pick a microwave model and location? Pull out microwave drawersdo resemble the look of warming drawers,and you can always feature both in your kitchen design. If cost is your only consideration, there are definitely more affordable options in microwaves. I am also looking at installing a Sharp 24" drawer micro. They are much smaller than an oven, making them an energy-efficient way to keep hot dishes at the proper temperature until theyre ready to serve. There will be 2 - 12 inch drawer bases, 2-24 inch sink bases and vanity area comprised of another 12" drawer base, 30" narrow drawer with 24" linen pantry next to it. My question is.. can I eliminate the spice rack? Will the microwave drawer unit fit in, or will you have to trim the inside edges of the face frame? I understand that trim kits are available to adjust for 24 - 30 " but not available for this model. We respect your privacy and promise to never spam you. Most kitchen cabinetry styles can accommodate a microwave drawer as long as they meet the size specifications. This technology allows you to free up your counter space. This is why microwave drawers are at their current pricepoint, and its why they arent likely to drop any time soon. Thanks, Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros. In addition to a modern under counter microwave, we updated our kitchen with panel ready appliances that blend seamlessly with our creamy inset cabinets. If theyre already spending $900 on a base microwave, it makes sense to add high-quality parts. Almost all major brands make their own model, but most of the controls and features are similar across brands. The drawer will slide out, rather than swing on a hinge like traditional microwaves. All that drawer really requires is that the drawer front be the correct height, since the sides can easily be lower. what about the extra 3 inches on each side? Microwave drawers are self-contained united, meaning that they have ventilation systems built in and no additional ventilation systems are necessary. Use them to quickly warm up leftovers, pop a bowl of popcorn,or warm up a favorite dish in just a matter of minutes. Personally, I dont think there is much to not love about having a drawer-style microwave. Just a few featuresyoulldiscover as you shopfor the best drawer microwaves to add to your routineare: Whetheryoureadding a drawer microwaveovento an existing kitchen or designing a new kitchen for your home, choosing all your appliances in the same finish is key for creating a cohesive look. With so many different options, choosing the best drawer microwaveovenis all about the features of each one, such as: Space planning is key when it comes to any kitchen installation, so take the time to choose the right size drawerstylemicrowave for your configuration. Samantha Kemp is a lawyer for a general practice firm. There are a variety of makes, models, styles, and finishes to choose from. Heres a list of some of the pros and cons of under counter microwaves: Theres no way around it. Have a question? Keep reading for some of the pros and cons. The exterior trim is larger on the 30" drawer. One other thing to consider is that microwave drawers can be installed flush with the cabinet face for a more seamless look or installed proud, which means protruding slightly in front of the cabinets. I also have found that there is a "flush mount deflector vent" for this model but I don't understand how this works, how mant I would need, or if it would be the answer to my problem. You already have most of the info I can share: Both 24" and 30" drawer MWs are the same interior size. This post may contain affiliate links. Also note in the drawing above that youll need to install an anti-tip block wedge to the installed microwave drawer against the top of the cabinet. Lower your food inside the tray, then select your desired settings on the control panel. Sharp has the worst microwave drawers and customer service! Before the fire, I cleaned my microwave any time I saw any splatters, and at least twice a week, so that is certainly not why it was malfunctioning. As an Amazon Associate, HomeTips earns from qualifying purchases which allows us to continue creating helpful DIY content. }); window.fd('form', { However, I checked the Sharp site and under "Downloads" found that you can indeed install a 24" MW Drawer in a 24" cabinetthere are two documents that might help you, depending on your cabinet type: framed or frameless (IIRC, you're going w/framed, correct? * Valid on select products. Some can slow-roast items much like your slow cooker would,and many have a special proofing function for baking breads and pastries. These handy appliances come from all the top appliance manufacturers,makingit easy to keep your entire kitchen suite cohesive within one brand. Im Julie, author of JulieBlanner.com! The main trick to installing microwave drawers successfully is to select carefully and match the size of the unit to the space available inside the cabinet or wall niche you plan to install it in. They are designed to sit right on your countertop or storagecart,and they can range from extremely compact to large and multi-functional in design. If you are retrofitting an existing lower cabinet system,a little lightwoodworking may berequiredto remove an existing cabinet and replace it with a drawer microwaveovenand another storage solution, such as a smaller cabinet or pull-out drawer. Two common sizes for microwave drawers are 24-inch and 30-inch models. They are the ultimate in form and function, taking the kitchen design world by storm as soon as they hit the market. "i want to install a 24"sharp microwave drawer in a 30" cabinet. I have Kenmore appliances and wonder if the color will match. Keep reading for all about microwave drawers and how they can benefit your kitchen! Michaels advice on microwave drawers is geared to help homeowners understand the basics of installation. formId: '613a59a67accb4c021020376', Ft. 950 Watt Built-In Microwave Drawer with Sensor Cooking Technology, Contemporary 30 Inch Wide 1.2 Cu. Also compare the inside depth of the cabinet to the depth of the microwave drawer enclosure measured from the face flange to the back of the unit. However, they can be installed under any countertop or in any wall cabinet. Anyone have experience with this? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Is this possible? No "support" between each. With my old microwave, having to lift hot food out and bring it down to stir, was always a little scary. Then, Sharp calls and said they couldn't replace the microwave because I had misused it by having food particles on the wave guide! Is there another class action or did I just get a defective microwave. When the temporary position of the unit seems perfect, mark the inside of the cabinet walls, tracing with a marker against the bottom of the microwave enclosure. The best way to ensure a seamless integration of your drawer style microwave with the rest of your kitchen design is to choose it during the planning process and have it installed by professionals as your cabinetry,and other appliances are being added. Hi! Thanks everyone! These dimensions are nominal and refer to the width across the drawer front from left to right. Sharp Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer | Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven with Handle | Bosch Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer | Frigidaire Professional Convection Microwave Oven with Drop-Down Door | Thermador Drawer Microwave | KitchenAid Microwave Drawer. Cannot be combined with any other offer or special quotes. As you select and plan, also mind the door height, the height of the microwave enclosure thats to fit inside the cabinet and recommended clearances specified by the manufacturer. Unique equals more expensive. We just bought a Sharp undercounter microwave. For many people, the higher price tag is worth it. The pictures on line make the color of the stainless look different that any other brand. Microwave drawers can be easily installed in base cabinets below countertops or in wall assemblies like wall ovens.A microwave drawer offers exceptional convenience without sacrificing coveted counter space. Because they take up a space typically occupied by an exhaust, and not by cabinetry, they can be a great way to free up valuable counter space without taking the place of precious existing cabinetry. You cant put a regular counter microwave in an island, because it doesnt have the right ventilation. MW drawer can go into a 24" cabinet with no cabinet next to it. They are often the most affordable of all microwaves and are easy to move from one location to another when necessary. Fasten wooden cleats to the inside of the cabinet inches below those marks and then fasten the plywood shelf on top of them. Our microwave drawer is in a 24" cab at the end of the island; there are no cabinets to the right or left of the microwave. The cooking compartments may slide in and out with a slight pull or push that activates an electric motor or at the touch of a button. Stock base cabinets are generally available in widths from 12 inches to 60 inches wide in increments of 3 inches, so it shouldnt be difficult to obtain a cabinet into which the microwave drawer unit will fit, if theres not one in your kitchen already.Key installation dimensions of a Sharp 24-inch microwave drawer Sharp Electronics. Good luck In my picture, you'll see the drawers sticking out at the bottom, those are my toe kick drawers which would have been just empty space. Unlike warming drawers,drawer style microwaveovensare designed for speed. A 30-inch microwave drawer requires a 30 3/8-inch flush inset width. For aesthetic purposes, its also important to measure the overall width and height of the microwave drawer front to make sure that itll overlap the rails and stiles of cabinet that it will be installed in and align pleasingly with adjacent cabinet fronts, namely doors and drawer fronts. Best of all, a drawer style microwaveovendoesntfeature a turntable, freeing up valuable extra space for those large rectangular casserole dishes and oddly shaped containers. The necessary size of your cabinets will depend on the size of your microwave drawer and the type of installation. If youre thinking of adding a microwave to your island, make sure to check out my Kitchen Island Dimension Guidelines. Sharp Electronics. Selecting the Right Size MicrowaveCabinet AlterationsSupporting the Microwave DrawerFinishing the Installation. Moving the plug at this point will be a huge ordeal. what about the extra 3 inches on each side?". Thats not always so easy without actually getting your hands on the unit(s) youre interested in and taking the overall measurements of the part that fits inside the cabinet. Drawer microwaveovensrange in wattages starting around 900 and extending up to 1750 or more. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thank you for the great information, Julie! I had the misfortune of buying a Sharp drawer in Spring of 2021. Ft. 950 Watt Drawer Microwave with WiFi Connectivity, 24 Inch Wide 2.2 Cu. Drawer microwavesfeature a special design that pulls out as a drawer instead of having a drawer that swings open. Use a block of 2-by lumber trimmed to whatever dimension provides a tight fit. Can I add an additional question about this 24 inch micro drawer? If youre not quite ready for a big remodel, take a look at my Kitchen Remodel Ideas on a Budget and How to Update a Kitchen with Oak Cabinets (Without Painting Them). A 30-inch drawer has the same size top and bottom overlap as the 24-inch model, but a side overlap of 3/4-inch. Matte black or brushed nickel hardware for birch color cabinets. Across all brands, the basic choices are 24-, 27-, and 30-inch microwave drawer units. Base cabinets and kitchen islands are appropriate options for a microwave drawer. I am so glad you asked this. To edit your subscription preferences, login to your accountand go to Account Details. Appreciate any help I can get. They can go against a corner or next to a wall basically anywhere a wall oven can be installed. So, unless you already have a 30 cabinet that you need to fit for, you may just want to go with the 24" It is a little less expensive too. Thanks Laurie. Ft. 1200 Watt Countertop Microwave, 24 Inch Wide 2.0 Cu. Almost but not quite. Not sure about that we have cabs on both sides, but there's no "support" - they aren't attached other than via the plywood underlayment for the counter (and each cab is screwed into the support 2x4 cleat that's on the wall. Hi everyone, looking at purchasing the Sharp 24" drawer micro; says it can be installed in a 24" microwave cabinet. Had originally thought we were doing the larger one, but after looking at my island, I don't want such a large micro! I am going to do the 24" too. One thing to consider is that sometimes brands will run deals that offer free microwave drawers when you purchase their appliance package. By the way, when I was shopping for mine, the salesman explained that the interior cooking space is the same on both the 24" and the 30" The 30" just has a larger front but it is a false front. Blogging is our family of fives full-time income window.fd('form', { I obviously decided that for me, the answer was yes! containerEl: '#fd-form-613a82b97accb4c0210203d8' Anyone else still having problems? Drive screws through the face flange when its flush with the cabinet front, and youre done. Regardless of the brand, there are currently two sizes available for the exterior of the drawer, but the interior size is the same. This is my late MIL's last kitchen. Microwave drawers are very nice but they are not afodable. The flush trim thing is just a piece of sheet metal angle that sits under the microwave and hangs down over the shelf the microwaveis is sitting on to deflect some heat. Mine is in a 24" frameless cabinet and fits pretty much edge to edge. Microwave drawers are extremely user friendly. Track your carts, orders, and invoices and get up-to-date notifications about your shipments. The best way to have a microwave in island is to purchase a microwave drawer and have it professionally installed. Coupon will be applied to published website price, for savings up to $200.00. Its called a microwave drawer or an under counter microwave. As with any kitchen appliance, different makes and models of drawer microwaves can offerdifferent features. You can use them anywhere you have a standard outlet at your disposal. Microwave drawers are especially popular in kitchen islands, because its such a central, convenient location for use. Mine is on the end of the island. I hope it will give you some inspiration for your own spaces. Don't want the focus on the handles as much as clean lines but want them to be functional (and hopefully not catch on my pockets like a bar pull would). Anyone know if a 24 mw will go into a 24 inset cabinet and if that would look ok? As you shop, take note of the height, width, and depth of the drawer microwaveoven, as well as of theinteriorcapacityinside the appliance. Microwave drawers are a contemporary option that replace bulkier versions that take up your valuable counter space. It is designed to be built in to a cabinet. How you choose to do it depends on your personal preference. Ft. Drawer Microwave with Push Button Opener, Contemporary 24 Inch Wide 1.2 Cu. The answer to this question is entirely up to you.