Can I put a microwave oven on a shelf over the sink?

Marysr60
by Marysr60

can I put a microwave oven over my kitchen sink

  9 answers
  • Oliva Oliva on Nov 27, 2019

    Placing any electrical appliance near water should be carefully considered. You might want to check with your local code authority before proceeding.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Nov 27, 2019

    As long as it is sturdy, I see no reason why you couldn't do that.

  • Vickymcreations Vickymcreations on Nov 27, 2019

    Ideally you shouldn't be able to touch water and electric at the same time, but I think this comes down to common sense, you know whether you will be tempted to use the microwave buttons with wet hands! My concern would be about bending down to do the washing up below the microwave and the impact that would have on my back.

  • Seth Seth on Nov 27, 2019

    You can if you really want to. I am assuming you are thinking of a moderate size counter top model. Are you going to hardwire it or will you use a plug and receptacle? Building codes require, "all counter area receptacles and all receptacles within 6 feet of a sink must be GFCI-protected".

  • William William on Nov 27, 2019

    I wouldn't. Water and electricity don't mix. Especially a 1500 watt + microwave. Can't imagine wet hands accidentally touching it or even water splashing on it. Recipe for disaster.

  • Toni @ Girl, Just DIY! Toni @ Girl, Just DIY! on Nov 29, 2019

    You might be able to fit a small one up there. In my first apartment I added a shelf over my kitchen sink between the two cabinets and used that for my small coffee pot to get it off the countertop because my kitchen was very small.

  • Jeremy Hoffpauir Jeremy Hoffpauir on Nov 29, 2019

    I would not do this as water and electricity can really hurt you.

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on May 26, 2023

    Not the best location for a microwave. Would rather be safe than sorry.

  • Mogie Mogie on Jun 01, 2023

    I wouldnt feel good about putting anything electric over a sink.