I was wondering the same thing , I hate to spend BIG money for a built in , a lot of over the range have better reviews , but I think is because they sell more , when you throw in convection and a trim kit the prices are above $900.00 for a Bosch , I do see a Panasonic model that has mixed reviews on a built in , but I am wary of spending to much for something that may not last , hope you get answers ....

Anyone else use an over the range microwave in a wall cabinet configuration?

Thanks!

An OTR needs the bottom exposed for ventilation. It hangs from an upper and doesn't rest on a platform like a built in an oven cabinet does. Now, I have done a faux built in look by using a 15"cabinet to hang it from, then used 3/4" side panels, and a trimmed up filler across the front to link the two panels. But it can't be enclosed below and live long.

We are remodeling our kitchen and I wanted to put our over the range convection microwave (which I like) in the wall. I contacted GE (our brand) to see if I could purchase a vent kit. I was told that over the range ovens can NOT be put in the wall. They are totally unsafe to be used in this manner and not approved for this usage. It's so sad since all of the wall convection microwaves are so much smaller. I realized you only asked about microwaves but wanted to share our experience too.

I am doing an over the range microwave on a open wall underneath a 33" upper cabinet. It is custom built with side panels extending down 16 inches it is also 15 inches deep to limit the amount of extra microwave showing. Area for microwave will be about 32 inches wide with would be a inch on both side of the microwave which would allow the microwave door to open without interference. I did this because I didnt want to pay for a built in and I wanted the ability to change out the microwave with ease once it goes out. 30" OTR microwaves will always be available.

Ive got a picture of cabinet layout that shows it if anyone wants to see it

This post was edited by eyezonz on Fri, Jan 10, 14 at 15:18