What is the prescriptive minimum distance between the bottom of a microwave oven and a range cooking surface?

The correct answer indicates that there is no prescriptive minimum distance between the bottom of a microwave oven and a range cooking surface. This is based on the fact that while many manufacturers provide guidelines and recommendations for safe installation heights to ensure safe operation and efficiency, these are not universally enforced as code requirements.

In practice, local building codes or standards may provide specific guidelines, but they can vary significantly based on location and the type of installation. The absence of a widely accepted prescriptive minimum distance means that the final decision often depends on manufacturer specifications, the design of the kitchen, and individual preferences.

As a result, some installers might choose to follow manufacturer guidelines, which often recommend installation heights in the range of 18 to 24 inches for optimal functionality and safety, while others could position the microwave differently based on the kitchen layout. Therefore, it is essential for inspectors and installers to be familiar with both manufacturer instructions and applicable local regulations when determining the appropriate distance for microwave installation over cooking surfaces.