How to Safely Stack Your Microwave on Your Fridge (And Save Space in Your Kitchen)

If you live in a small apartment or have a tiny kitchen, you might be tempted to put your microwave on top of your fridge. After all, it seems like a clever way to save some counter space and make use of the vertical space in your kitchen.

But is it safe to do so? Will it damage your microwave or your fridge? Will it cause any fire hazards or electrical issues? And how can you do it properly without risking your health or your appliances?

In this article, I will answer all these questions and more. I will also give you some tips and tricks on how to stack your microwave on your fridge safely and securely.

The short answer is yes, you can put a microwave on top of a fridge, as long as you follow some basic safety precautions and make sure that the microwave is stable and well-ventilated. However, it is not recommended for long-term use or for large or heavy microwaves.

How to Stack Your Microwave on Your Fridge Safely

Putting a microwave on top of a fridge is not ideal, but it can be done if you have no other choice. However, you need to be careful and follow some guidelines to avoid any potential problems. Here are some things to consider before you stack your microwave on your fridge:

• Check the weight and size of your microwave. Not all microwaves are suitable for stacking on top of a fridge. Some are too heavy or too large and might cause the fridge to tip over or damage its compressor. A general rule of thumb is to avoid putting a microwave that weighs more than 10% of the weight of the fridge on top of it. Also, make sure that the microwave fits well on the fridge and does not hang over the edges or block the doors.
• Check the ventilation and temperature of your microwave and fridge. Both appliances need adequate airflow and cooling to function properly and prevent overheating. Make sure that there is enough space between the microwave and the fridge and that there are no obstructions that might block the vents or fans. Also, avoid placing the microwave near the back of the fridge where the compressor is located, as this might cause the microwave to overheat or interfere with the fridge’s cooling system.
• Check the stability and security of your microwave and fridge. You don’t want your microwave to fall off or slide off the fridge when you open or close the doors or use the microwave. To prevent this, you need to make sure that both appliances are stable and secure on their own and when stacked together. You can use some anti-slip mats, rubber pads, or brackets to keep them in place. You can also use some straps or cords to tie them together, but make sure they are not too tight or too loose.
• Check the power supply and cord length of your microwave and fridge. You need to make sure that both appliances have enough power and that their cords are not tangled or stretched. You also need to avoid using extension cords or power strips, as they might overload the circuit or cause a fire hazard. Plug each appliance directly into a separate wall outlet that can handle their wattage and voltage. If possible, use a surge protector to protect them from power surges or fluctuations.

FAQs

Is it bad to put a microwave on top of a fridge?

It is not necessarily bad to put a microwave on top of a fridge, as long as you do it safely and temporarily. However, it is not advisable to do it for long periods of time or for large or heavy microwaves, as it might cause some issues with both appliances.

What are the risks of putting a microwave on top of a fridge?

Some of the risks of putting a microwave on top of a fridge include:

• Damaging the compressor or cooling system of the fridge by adding extra weight or heat
• Damaging the magnetron or electronics of the microwave by exposing it to high temperatures or vibrations
• Causing a fire hazard or an electrical shock by overloading the circuit or using faulty cords
• Causing an injury or an accident by dropping or knocking over the microwave

Why You Should Trust Me

Hi, I’m Dale, the founder of www.presstocook.com and a food safety expert with over 10 years of experience in the restaurant industry. I have managed busy Asian restaurants in central London where I ensured the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

I have been trained on the highest food safety standards and have a long track record of delivering them in establishments I have been running. I have worked with local authorities and external auditors, passing them all with flying colors.

I am certified in HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points – Level 2), Food Safety (Level 3), Health and Safety and Restaurant Management. All CPD certified and Endorsed by the institute of hospitality. I retrain every year to keep up to date with the latest updates in food safety standards and every changing legislation.

At home, I love to cook and play with gadgets, especially kitchen appliances. I have tested and reviewed hundreds of them on my website, where I share my honest opinions and recommendations.

I know how important it is to have a safe and efficient kitchen, whether at home or at work. That’s why I created this article to help you stack your microwave on your fridge safely and save some space in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Putting a microwave on top of a fridge can be a handy solution if you have limited space in your kitchen. However, you need to be careful and follow some basic safety precautions to avoid any problems with both appliances.

Make sure that your microwave is not too heavy or too large for your fridge, that there is enough ventilation and cooling for both appliances, that they are stable and secure on their own and when stacked together, and that they have enough power supply without overloading the circuit.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to stack your microwave on your fridge safely and enjoy some extra space in your kitchen.