Can I Install a Sharp Convection Microwave Oven Over the Counter?

What Are Convection Microwave Ovens?

• Convection microwave ovens combine traditional microwave cooking with convection cooking, which expedites the cooking process while enhancing the flavor of food. When convection microwave ovens first came on the market, they cost exponentially more than traditional microwave appliances, yet there are now less expensive models available to consumers. Convection works by heating the microwave cavity to cook food in a manner similar to a traditional oven, which differs as conventional microwaves excite food water molecules by emitting electromagnetic energy waves. The end result of a convection microwave oven is food heated evenly without losing moisture.

Mounting Tips

• The majority of Sharp convection microwave ovens can be installed over the counter; however, any Sharp microwave oven may be installed above a counter with an over the counter assembly kit, which comes with stainless steel mounting brackets designed specifically for Sharp microwaves. To install an OTC microwave, remove a wall cabinet that measures at least 24 inches in width and secure the microwave to the wall through the wall mounting brackets. To create a built-in appearance, install a 2-inch valance on the bottom portion of the surrounding cabinets.

Sharp Convection Microwave Models

• As of October 2011, Sharp offers a total of eight convection microwave ovens. These units offer between 1.1 cubic feet and 1.5 cubic feet of cooking space, and each oven has a variety of cooking features. These appliances are available in white, black and stainless steel, and all of them can be installed over the counter.

Design Considerations

• If you have a small kitchen with limited counter space, mounting a convection microwave oven above a counter and installing side paneling will free up counter space while adding a visual focal point for your kitchen. While you can install an over-the-range unit over the counter top, these models are wider than traditional microwave ovens so plan accordingly.