Microwaves have become an indispensible appliance in most American kitchens, but how did they come top be placed over the range? In and effort to save money and make kitchens smaller, home builders of the 80’s started installing combination built-in microwave-exhaust hoods above the range.
Placing the microwave over the range or cook top has caused many accidents and continues to present safety hazards for chefs of all ages.
- Heavy pans can tip when lifting out of an overhead microwave.
- Burns can be caused when steaming pots are on the range and the microwave is in use.
- Children can climb up on the range to use the microwave and be injured by hot burners.
- Having 2 cooking functions in one area can cause accidents during busy prep time.
Here are a few great locations for safe and family friendly microwave locations.
- A microwave can be placed on the counter top and built into cabinetry. This will allow for easy transfer from the counter into the appliance. (Above 36”)
Drawer microwaves can be placed under the counter top. They are easy to use and they allow for lifting up of warmed foods vs. lifting down. These can also be used from a seated position. (Below 36”) - A microwave can be installed under a raised counter top. This a great way to conceal the box but keep the buttons at a height the whole family can use. (Below 42”)
Great kitchen design starts with pre-planning. Microwave and appliance placement is the one of the first steps to ensuring a functional and safe kitchen. For more thoughts on safe kitchen design feel free to contact abbie@abbiejoan.com
Great Microwave Recipe
Healthy Potato Chips
PREP TIME
30 Min
COOK TIME
5 Min
READY IN
35 Min
SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 potato, sliced paper thin (peel optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
DIRECTIONS
Pour the vegetable oil into a plastic bag (a produce bag works well). Add the potato slices, and shake to coat.
Coat a large dinner plate lightly with oil or cooking spray. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the dish.
Cook in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes, or until lightly browned (if not browned, they will not become crisp). Times will vary depending on the power of your microwave. Remove chips from plate, and toss with salt (or other seasonings). Let cool. Repeat process with the remaining potato slices. You will not need to keep oiling the plate.
30 Min
COOK TIME
5 Min
READY IN
35 Min
SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 potato, sliced paper thin (peel optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
DIRECTIONS
Pour the vegetable oil into a plastic bag (a produce bag works well). Add the potato slices, and shake to coat.
Coat a large dinner plate lightly with oil or cooking spray. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the dish.
Cook in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes, or until lightly browned (if not browned, they will not become crisp). Times will vary depending on the power of your microwave. Remove chips from plate, and toss with salt (or other seasonings). Let cool. Repeat process with the remaining potato slices. You will not need to keep oiling the plate.
