Forum Discussion

wandering_bark's avatar
Jun 16, 2019

Microwave over the range: what's difference

Hi. My over the range micro/convection unit has died after 9 years and I want to put just a simple microwave to up in its place. Found one a bit smaller on line, but it is a countertop unit about 800 watts and smaller, which will fit I think...I want to order it from on line. Is there any reason I couldn't put the smaller unit in place of the one I just lost? The plug is up there too.
Thanks for any information you can share.
Fair Winds.
Donnis Thompson

12 Replies

  • Most over-the-range units also function as a vent to the outside.
    You will lose that feature.....and will need to completely close off the outside vent opening.

    ALSO.....you likely will have to make some minor modifications in order to mount the new one securely. Make it about twice as secure as you think it needs to be. Having it come loose due to vibrations or in a crash would be really unfortunate.

    My opinion: While I realize that an exact replacement (or very close) is going to be 2 to 3X the cost, if you really can afford that extra $150 or so, I suggest that you do it. Likely it will be rated at 1000 watts too.