What Is the Proper Distance to Separate a Microwave & a Range Top?

Building Codes

• The International Residential Code (IRC) recommends a distance of at least 30 inches between a cooktop and any noncombustible surface above it. Your state, county or local building code may also include guidelines for microwave-oven-to-stove-top clearances. Before you install the oven, research code information carefully by contacting the relevant authority. The local code may suggest a clearance of anywhere from 16 to 30 inches. Alternatively, the regulations may be expressed in terms of the distance of the microwave from the floor. In such a case, deduct the height of your stove top from the distance figure. For example, if your local code says that the microwave should be installed at least 66 inches from the floor, and your stove is 40 inches tall, the clearance should be 26 inches.

Guidelines and Recommendations

• The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) publishes its own recommendations, alongside those of the IRC. The NKBA suggests a clearance of 24 inches between stove top and microwave oven. Experienced residential building inspectors in your area can also offer guidance.

Manufacturer Requirements

• The manual that accompanies your microwave oven may specify a clearance figure. Commonly, manufacturers recommend a minimum distance of 30 inches. Some manufacturers may distinguish between gas and electric stove tops, relative to clearance. The figure for a gas stove -- which involves open flames -- may be higher than that for an electric stove.

Clearance Concerns

• What may not be immediately apparent is why the clearance is important. Heat and fire safety are primary concerns. For gas stove tops in particular, if the microwave is installed too near the top of the stove, scorching or burning of the microwave -- or the shelf on which it is installed -- may occur. The distance between the stove top and microwave is also important because it must accommodate the height of pots or pans that may be placed on the stove top. Though skillets and frying pans are not very tall, stockpots can measure up to 8 inches or more. In addition, the clearance must be enough to allow for the placement and removal of pot lids, the stirring and turning of food and other cooking tasks.

Common Sense Precautions

• While you must comply with minimum microwave-to-stove-top clearance requirements, common sense should also be taken into account. For example, if your local code suggests the clearance need be no greater than 16 inches, but you know you often cook with tall deep-frying equipment that generates high temperatures, as well as oil splatter, you'll want to leave more space between the two elements. Guidelines are just that. In the end, the installation height of your microwave should accommodate your stove-top cooking styles, methods and frequency.