What Material to Use to Level a Built-In Whirlpool Oven

Proper Oven Installaton

• When installing ovens, homeowners should carefully follow all safety instructions as recommended by the manufacturer regarding shutting off the breakers, making gas and electrical connections and fastening the oven to the cabinet structure. Leveling the oven properly keeps the unit in correct position for safe operation and will prevent uneven baking from tilted pans within the oven.

About Built-in Ovens

• Built-in ovens come in both gas and electric units. Gas units are connected to the household natural gas line through flexible conduit. They also require wiring to a nearby junction box for electricity. Electric units are connected to the junction box alone. Fireproof materials are generally used beneath built-in units to prevent overheating of construction materials.

Installing Built-in Ovens

• To install a Whirlpool built-in oven appliance, you should carefully measure the area available for the unit and purchase the correct size. A platform must hold the unit within the cabinet area and be sufficiently strong to hold the oven. The area must also be close to a junction box for wiring to the household electricity. The doors of the oven are removed and the unit slid into position in the cabinet. The use of a level will determine whether further material is required to correct unevenness of the oven within the cabinet space. After adjusting to balance the oven correctly, it is then fastened into place and the exterior trim is installed around the unit.

Materials Used for Leveling Built-in Ovens

• Wood shims are the preferred material used to level built-in ovens during installation, according to the AJMadison website. The shims are generally inserted at the corners of the unit and screwed into place. A level is used to ensure that all edges of the oven unit are properly positioned. The side trim is then positioned to cover the shims and fastened into place. Other pieces of standard lumber can also be used to support the oven within the cabinet structure depending on problems encountered during installation.