How to Fit a Microwave Oven in the Kitchen Cabinet

Measure the total length and width of the cabinet space, along with the length and width of the microwave. Compare the four measurements. The microwave must be at least two inches shorter in length and one inch shorter in width. In addition, the microwave must be one inch smaller than the total height of the cabinet space.

Examine the microwave to locate all vents. Vents are on the sides or the top of the appliance. There must be at least one inch of space between the vents and the cabinet paneling to ensure the microwave gets to expel the air as required.

Locate the closest electrical outlet near the cabinet. Microwaves must be plugged into the outlet itself, so avoid extension cords and power bars. Determine the best place inside the cabinet to make a small cut in the panel, where the microwave cord comes out to reach the power outlet. The panel can either be the back panel or a side panel serving as an end panel.

Mark the area you wish to cut on the cabinet panel using the pencil. Create a small half-moon design large enough to fit the cord itself and the electrical head. Cut the small space out using the reciprocal saw. Sand the splinters away, so the splinters do not dig into the cord. Place the microwave in the cabinet and pull the cord through the hole and plug it into the outlet. Adjust the microwave in the cabinet, so all vents have at least one inch of space in front of them.