What Type of Microwaves Can Be Put Over an Oven?

Manufacturers

• Many manufacturers of kitchen appliances make microwave models for over an oven or a range. Whirlpool and Maytag, for instance, offer makes of over-range microwaves in white, black and stainless steel, which makes it easy for homeowners to purchase a microwave unit that matches the other appliances in their kitchens.

What Makes an Over-Range Microwave Different

• Over-range microwaves are ventilated by the extraction fan commonly included on the bottom of an over-the-oven microwave. Some microwaves may also include built-in lights, which provide lighting for the stove or range below.

Installation

• Over-range microwaves generally come with brackets and a mounting plate on which to install the appliance. The brackets attach directly to the wall and the cabinets over the oven and stove. The microwave attaches to the mounting plate, which connects to the brackets to hold the microwave in place. When connecting a microwave over an oven, you must also be able to plug the microwave into an electrical outlet and, in some instances, be able to connect to a pipe that vents to the outside.

Working the Microwave

• Microwaves that install over an oven work similarly to a countertop microwave, though the front generally has a few extra buttons. Standard buttons include the number keypad used to enter times, the "Start" and "Stop" buttons and the "Power" button to change the power level. Additional buttons on an over-range microwave include the "Fan" button for the extraction fan and the "Light" button for the built-in stove light.