Is anyone aware of a standard for the minimum distance between the bottom of an above-the-range microwave/range hood and the cooking surface of the range especially a gas range?

[ccurrins]

IRC

SECTION M1901
RANGES AND OVENS

M1901.1 Clearances. Freestanding or built-in ranges shall have a vertical clearance above the cooking top of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) to unprotected combustible material. Reduced clearances are permitted in accordance with the listing and labeling of the range hoods or appliances.

M1901.2 Cooking appliances. Household cooking appliances shall be listed and labeled and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The installation shall not interfere with combustion air or accessibility for operation and servicing.


I would check with the manufactures instructions and recommended clearance

[Ricky K. Kie]

Most units call for the distance to the top of the unit to be 66" off the floor. The real danger is removing products from the microwave (a spill hazard to the user).

[David A. Andersen]

The real, real danger is reaching over boiling food to adjust the stove controls if they are located on the back of the stove without adequate clearance...

[Bob Elliott]

Having installed many of them according to the book for Sears .I recall it as 18 inches from bottom of micro hood to stove top.

Yes it looks low.

[Blaine Wiley]

I just came from an inspection that had the installation manual on the countertop for the Kenmore microwave. The instructions stated a minimum distance of 30" from the stove top to the top of the microwave. When I measured it, the top was 30.5" above, which left a clearance of 14" between the bottom of the micro and the stove top. Seemed too close to me, but it met the manufacturers installation instructions.

[David A. Andersen]

The microwave manufacturer doesn't know what type of stove your putting under it.

I think using "uncommon" common sense is all you need to go buy.