How much clearance for a countertop microwave?
For a countertop microwave, we recommend leaving at least 3 inches of open space on both sides and on top, plus 1 inch behind the unit for airflow; also keep the front edge set back on the counter to reduce tip risk. For model-specific placement notes, use the installation guide.
Recommended clearances (typical countertop setup)
- Sides: 3 inches minimum each side
- Top: 3 inches minimum
- Rear: 1 inch minimum
- Front: keep the microwave’s front edge at least 3 inches back from the counter edge
- Surface: place on a flat, stable counter or shelf that can support the microwave’s weight
Countertop vs. built-in or over-the-range clearances
Clearance needs change when a microwave is mounted in cabinetry or over a range.
| Installation type | What clearance is about | What to follow |
|---|---|---|
| Countertop | Airflow around the cabinet and safe placement on the counter | General guidance plus the owner's manual |
| Over-the-range or wall-mounted | Cabinet opening, vertical spacing to cooking surface, wall support | The installation guide |
Why it matters
Proper clearance helps the Kenmore 72167600790 vent heat correctly, reduces nuisance shutoffs from overheating, and lowers the chance of cabinet damage or unsafe placement.
Quick placement checklist
- Do not block side or top vents with canisters, cookbooks, or wall décor
- Keep the rear gap open; do not push the microwave tight to the wall
- Avoid placing next to strong heat sources or drafty areas
- Use a dedicated, properly grounded outlet (no pinched cord)
- Recheck clearances after moving the microwave for cleaning
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is a Kenmore Model 72167600790 microwave?
The Kenmore 72167600790 microwave is a 1.3 cubic foot unit. This capacity is listed in the product documentation for the 721.67600-series models and is the best match for this model’s design and parts listing. See the owner's manual for the model family details.
Where the capacity is listed
In the documentation, the capacity appears on the cover page as part of the model family specifications.
- Look for the “1.3 Cu. ft” line near the top of the manual
- The manual groups multiple 721.67600-series models together
- Capacity is shown alongside the wattage rating standard
Quick spec snapshot (what you need to know)
| Spec | What it means | Value for this model family |
|---|---|---|
| Oven capacity | Interior cooking space | 1.3 cu. ft |
| Model family shown in docs | Related models sharing the same platform | 721.67600-series |
Why it matters
Capacity affects what fits on the glass tray, how evenly food heats, and which accessories and replacement parts are compatible. When ordering parts for Kenmore 72167600790, matching the correct platform helps avoid fit issues.
Related parts you might replace during ownership
These are common maintenance or fit-related items for this Kenmore microwave platform:
- Grease filter 5230W1A012E (helps capture cooking vapors and keep airflow moving)
- Glass tray MJS65336701 (supports cookware and rotates for even heating)
- Oven lamp 6912W3Q001A (interior light for visibility)
Last updated: February 2026
What is the wattage of a Kenmore microwave?
For Kenmore microwave model 72167600790, the cooking (output) power is 900W, and the electrical power draw is 1350 watts for microwave-only operation (up to 1500 watts with the cooktop lamps and ventilation fan on). These ratings are listed in the 72167600790 owner's manual.
Wattage vs. cooking power (what to compare)
Microwaves commonly list more than one “power” number; each one answers a different question:
- Output power (watts): heating power delivered to the food (used for cook-time comparisons).
- Input wattage (watts): power the microwave pulls from the outlet while heating.
- Combined load (watts): microwave plus extra loads like lights and vent fan.
- Electrical rating: the required supply (volts and frequency).
Specs for Kenmore 72167600790
| Spec type | What it means | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Output power | Cooking/heating power | 900W |
| Input wattage | Microwave-only power draw | 1350 watts |
| Max combined load | Microwave + lamps + vent fan | 1500 watts |
| Electrical rating | Household supply requirement | 120V AC, 60Hz |
Why it matters
Output power helps you adjust cook times when replacing a microwave or following recipes. Input wattage and combined load help prevent nuisance breaker trips by keeping the microwave on a properly rated dedicated circuit.
If your microwave runs but does not heat
A no-heat symptom often points to the high-voltage heating circuit.
- Unplug the microwave before any inspection
- Check for burning smells, arcing, or unusual buzzing
- Use the troubleshooting steps in why is my microwave not heating
- If a technician diagnoses a failed component, one common part in the heating circuit is the high-voltage diode 6021W3B001A
Last updated: February 2026


