How Do You Measure the Height of an Over-the-Range Microwave?

Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves may be a sleeker alternative to traditional countertop models, but they’re also much harder to install. Even if you’re replacing an existing OTR microwave, you’ll need to take a few different measurements to make sure your new unit will fit in your kitchen. So, how do you measure the height of an over-the-range microwave, exactly? Let’s walk through it.

What Is an Over-the-Range Microwave?

As its name suggests, an over-the-range microwave is mounted above your stove or range. Many people install this type of microwave to save counter space, but it offers other benefits, too. Specifically, OTR microwaves have vents to capture smoke and odors from your cooktop. They have built-in lights as well, which is particularly useful in kitchens with limited natural lighting.

How to Measure Over-the-Range Microwave Height

When it comes to OTR microwaves, there are two kinds of height measurements to keep in mind: the height of the microwave itself and the clearance space between the microwave and your cooktop.

Measuring Microwave Height

Over-the-range microwaves are typically around 17 inches in height, but there are also low-profile models that are about 10 inches tall. To measure yours, hold a tape measure against one of the microwave’s vertical sides.

Measuring the Clearance Space

When installing an OTR microwave, you should maintain at least 30 inches of clearance between the top of the cooking surface and the bottom of the cabinet above the microwave. You can measure this distance by running a tape measure from the tallest point of the cooktop to the underside of the upper cabinet. Be sure to do this before you buy a new microwave so you understand the maximum microwave height for your space.

Once the microwave is in place, there should be at least 13 inches between the cooking surface and the underside of the microwave. This will give you enough room to use your stove comfortably and safely. To determine the height of this area, subtract the height of your new microwave from the total clearance space that you measured previously. If you’re left with 13 inches or more, there’s enough room for the microwave.

Again, make sure to run these calculations before you purchase a microwave; otherwise, you could get stuck with an appliance that’s too tall for your space. If you aren’t confident in your measuring skills, it might be better to call a professional microwave installer near you.

Other Over-the-Range Microwave Measurements to Consider

In addition to height, there are a few other size factors to consider when shopping for a new over-the-range microwave. 

Width

For starters, you’ll need to know the width of the cutout—which is the area where the microwave will go—in order to buy the right size microwave. To do this, hold a tape measure across the open space of the cutout, stretching it from the vertical edge of one cabinet to the edge of the opposite cabinet. 

Fortunately, cutout widths typically align with standard microwave sizes. For reference, OTR microwaves are typically around 30 inches in width, but some models may be bigger or smaller.

Depth

It’s also important to measure the depth of the cutout. You can do this by measuring from the wall to the outer edge of the cabinet that will sit above the microwave. 

If you want your microwave to fit that space snugly, choose a model with the same depth as the cutout. You can also pick a unit that’s deeper than the cutout, but just be aware that it will jut out from your cabinets. When the microwave door is closed, most over-the-range microwaves are 15 to 18 inches deep.