It is possible that, when installing an oven or microwave in a kitchen cabinet, there is a gap between the appliance and the upper or lower door
This is especially noticeable when installing non-IKEA appliances in furniture designed for IKEA appliances. This occurs due to two main reasons: oven ventilation and design differences between manufacturers:
- Oven Ventilation Requirement: Ovens generate heat during operation and require a ventilation space to safely dissipate it. This gap does not affect the performance or overall aesthetics of the kitchen.
- Differences in Oven Design: While most ovens have standard installation dimensions (60 or 45 cm in height), the design of the front panel can vary between models and brands. Some ovens may be 1 or 2 cm taller or shorter at the front, creating a small visible gap between the appliance and the cabinet.
- Greater Variability in Microwave Dimensions: Unlike ovens, built-in microwaves do not follow strictly standardized dimensions. Each manufacturer designs its models with unique measurements, which can result in greater variations in installation gaps.
If you notice a small gap between the appliance and the cabinet door when installing an oven or microwave, it is not a defect but a normal effect of ventilation and variable appliance design. To visually minimize these gaps, some users opt for trim kits or select appliance models that better fit the cabinet design.
Combi Microwave Ovens
In the case of combi microwave ovens, the gap can be more noticeable, even in IKEA models. For this reason, these models come with a metal trim, usually black, designed to be placed under the door. This piece can be purchased at the IKEA spare parts store.
If you have a non-IKEA model, we recommend contacting the supplier to obtain a similar piece. The IKEA part may not be compatible with other brands.