Choosing the right placement for home appliances can be a bit tricky.
A microwave is no exception. Instinctively, you will be made to place them on top of platforms such as countertops and tables.
You could even think of putting it somewhere close to the refrigerator.
So, Is It Safe To Put A Microwave Oven Next To A Refrigerator?
Yes. It is okay to position a microwave oven next to a refrigerator. If there is enough space there, there is nothing that can prevent you from keeping the oven there. Accessibility is the major factor to put into consideration when choosing a placement point for microwave ovens. An area near a refrigerator is undoubtedly one of the most accessible.
Well, in this article, we will tell you all you need to know about putting a microwave oven near a refrigerator.
We have also added more placement ideas, safety tips, and much more.
Let’s get to it.
Can You Put A Microwave Next To A Refrigerator?
If there is a countertop next to your refrigerator and you are considering putting a microwave oven on it, there is nothing you should worry about at all.
Only a few things to take note of for general safety concerns.
1. Microwave Oven Door
First, always ensure that the microwave door does not bang on the refrigerator when you open and close it.
You want to keep your appliances in ambient conditions.
So make sure that there is no potential mechanical damage. A dent could be created on the refrigerator if it is hit continuously by your microwave door.
2. Microwave Oven Heat
The second concern is the amount of heat your microwave oven releases as it functions.
Microwaves oust a lot of heat during operations.
As a result, make sure that this heat does not hamper the operations of the refrigerator. Vents are designed to direct this heat safely out of the room.
They should be ideally installed.
Can You Put A Microwave On Top Of Your Refrigerator?
The inviting platform on top of the refrigerator will often tempt you to put a microwave oven on it.
It is fine to have it there. But below are a few factors you should put in mind when making such a choice:
1. The Weight Of The Appliances
Your refrigerator should be capable of withstanding the weight of the microwave. As a result, the top of the refrigerator should be strong and formidable enough to hold it.
This is one of the most important factors to consider before outing anything on top of the refrigerator. Not your microwave alone.
Generally, you may put a weight of up to 31kgs on top of your refrigerator.
Refrigerator’s outer casings are often designed with this in mind. They are made stronger to carry the weight of such light objects and appliances.
Most modern microwaves weigh about 16kgs.
Most refrigerators can therefore handle them on their top without any problems.
However, it is always a prudent idea to counter-check the weights of respective appliances on the user manuals for certainty. Some brands are designed to hold different weights.
2. Power Circuit Supply
Most microwaves consume between 600W to 1600W.
A frequency of about 2400W is needed when they are operating in full gear.
On the other hand, most refrigerators consume about 1000 to 1900W a day when they are in full operation. As you can see, these appliances differ in energy requirements.
They equally differ from one brand to another.
You should never overlook the energy consumption of your choice of appliances as this has everything to do with energy bills that you will incur.
On this, it is also a good idea to confirm everything about what you are installing on the owner’s manual.
This will ensure a smooth operation with the appliances without a hitch.
It is a good idea to keep a single electrical outlet for each appliance. Further insight on that will be discussed in the later section of the article.
3. Consider The Available Ventilation
Both the microwave oven and the refrigerator dissipate a lot of heat to keep themselves cool and to ensure proper working.
As such, you must always make sure that there is enough ventilation in your rooms for the appliances to operate smoothly.
Plenty of folks often disregards this fact when keeping a microwave near a fridge.
The poor placement could block vents forcing the compressor to strain.
Consequently, the refrigerator has to consume more power to meet these energy demands.
The effects are, therefore, obvious. Apart from causing a possibility of hiking electricity bills, the longevity of your appliances is gravely affected.
Always make sure that the microwave oven is kept half an inch away from the vents.
This allows proper ventilation and smooth operation of the appliances.
Is It Possible To Put The Refrigerator And The Microwave On The Same Circuit?
Conventionally, a circuit is not made to handle loads of appliances.
Therefore, it is not proper to plug the refrigerator and the microwave on the same circuit.
Most people are tempted to put them in the same circuit especially when they are placed close to each other.
You should not give in to such temptations as such actions could cost you precious appliances like refrigerators and microwaves.
Every appliance should have a dedicated circuit.
You should never attempt to share the circuits with any appliance.
This is especially true for such appliances as microwaves and refrigerators that consume a high amount of power. It is very risky to use a single circuit.
Other Safety Concerns When Putting a Microwave Oven near A Refrigerator
There are a couple of other safety concerns to pay attention to when placing a microwave oven near a refrigerator.
Like we mentioned earlier, you should prioritize power wattage, weight, ventilation, and height as the primary safety measures. And there is more. Keep reading the next section to master these safety tips.
1. Convenience
You should ask yourself whether you are comfortable working with a microwave situated near a refrigerator.
2. Accessibility And Potential Skin Burning Risks
If you decide to put a microwave over the refrigerator, make sure that it is within reach.
This helps you to avoid burns.
Kids and short people in the residence may get exposed to burns if they cannot reach them properly. They might topple over with hot food and burn themselves.
3. Handle Your Food With Care
Food from the microwave oven is often very hot.
You should take food from the microwave oven with a lot of care to avoid burns.
Make arrangements of where you will put the food from the microwave.
4. Do Not Put Hot Water In A Microwave Put On The Top
If your microwave is on the top of the refrigerator, do not attempt to put hot water in it. It increases the chances of getting burnt.
5. Always Shut The Microwave Door When In Use
A poorly shut microwave door could lead to explosions electric shock and leakages. This can equally put you at risk.
6. Use Appropriate Utensils In The Microwave
Only appropriate utensils should be allowed into the microwave
Final Words
You can put your microwave near the refrigerator and ensure coordinated cooking and working experience in your home.
It is important to note every safety measure that should be taken when placing such an appliance near a refrigerator.
We have discussed that exhaustively in this article. Hopefully, we have provided answers to all your questions.
Related
References
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/can-put-wall-oven-next-refrigerator-85913.html
