Kenmore 72163263301 microwave Parts

The Kenmore 72163263301 countertop microwave has an oven cavity capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, based on the model specifications in the owner's manual.

Where this number comes from

In the specifications section for model 721.63263 (the series that includes 72163263301), the manual lists:

• Capacity of oven cavity: 1.2 cu. ft.
• Power supply: 120 VAC, 60 Hz
• Microwave output: 1,100 W (IEC 60705 rating standard)

Quick spec snapshot

Spec	What to expect for Kenmore 72163263301
Oven cavity capacity	1.2 cu. ft.
Output power	1,100 W
Electrical	120 VAC, 60 Hz

Why it matters

Capacity (cubic feet) tells you how much interior space you have for dishes and cookware. A 1.2 cu. ft. countertop microwave typically fits most dinner plates and medium casserole dishes while still staying compact enough for standard counters.

Related tips for best results

• Use microwave-safe cookware sized to allow air space around the dish.
• Avoid blocking interior airflow with oversized containers.
• Keep the turntable and roller support clean so the tray rotates smoothly.
• If the turntable stops turning, common fixes include checking the tray support and motor.

If you are troubleshooting turntable rotation on this model, the parts list includes the microwave turntable motor 6549W1S011B and microwave glass turntable tray 3390W1G004E.

Last updated: February 2026

A “standard size” countertop microwave is typically about 20 to 22 inches wide, 11 to 13 inches tall, and 15 to 18 inches deep, with a 1.0 to 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. Your Kenmore 72163263301 is 20 19/20" W x 11 1/2" H x 16 21/46" D (1.2 cu. ft. cavity). See the owner's manual for the full specifications.

Common countertop microwave size ranges

Most countertop microwaves fall into these practical ranges:

• Compact: 0.7 to 0.9 cu. ft.; about 17 to 19 inches wide
• Mid-size (most common): 1.0 to 1.6 cu. ft.; about 20 to 22 inches wide
• Large: 1.7 to 2.2 cu. ft.; about 23 to 24 inches wide
• Height: usually 11 to 14 inches (varies with venting and feet)
• Depth: usually 15 to 20 inches (deeper if the door handle protrudes)

How Kenmore 72163263301 compares

Item	Typical “standard” range	Kenmore 72163263301
Width	20 to 22 in.	20 19/20 in.
Height	11 to 13 in.	11 1/2 in.
Depth	15 to 18 in.	16 21/46 in.
Capacity	1.0 to 1.6 cu. ft.	1.2 cu. ft.

Measuring tips before you buy or replace

To avoid fit issues on a shelf or in a cabinet opening:

• Measure the space width, height, and depth where the microwave will sit.
• Add room for door swing and any handle overhang.
• Leave ventilation clearance; this model needs at least 4 inches on the left, right, top, and rear.
• Confirm the turntable diameter fits your common dishes (check the manual specs).
• If you are matching an older unit, compare overall dimensions, not just capacity.

Why it matters

Microwave “size” is more than capacity; overall dimensions and required ventilation clearance determine whether the unit runs safely and fits your countertop setup without overheating or blocking airflow.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes, you can install the Kenmore 72163263301 countertop microwave in a cabinet with a trim kit as long as the cabinet cutout, clearances, and ventilation match the requirements in the owner's manual. A trim kit does not replace the need for proper airflow and safe electrical grounding.

What to check before you install it in a cabinet

• Use the exact cabinet opening and clearance requirements listed in the owner's manual.
• Confirm there is a dedicated, properly grounded outlet available (do not use an extension cord).
• Make sure the microwave can vent heat and steam normally; blocking airflow can cause overheating.
• Do not store paper products, food, or other combustibles in the microwave cavity when it is installed.
• Keep the power cord away from hot surfaces and avoid pinching it behind the unit.

Trim kit vs. no trim kit: what changes

A trim kit mainly improves fit and appearance; it does not make a countertop microwave “built-in” by itself.

Setup	What it does	What you still must have
With a trim kit	Finishes the opening and helps secure the look	Correct clearances, ventilation space, grounded outlet
Without a trim kit	Microwave sits in the opening as-is	Even more attention to airflow and access to the plug

Safety and performance tips (important)

• Never operate the microwave empty or without the glass turntable installed.
• If you ever see smoke or a small fire inside, keep the door closed, turn the unit off, and shut off power at the breaker.
• Avoid blocking the exhaust path; steam during cooking is normal and the microwave is designed to vent it.

Why it matters

Countertop microwaves like the Kenmore 72163263301 rely on free airflow to keep internal components (like the magnetron and high-voltage parts) within safe operating temperatures. Proper cabinet clearances help prevent nuisance shutdowns, poor cooking performance, and heat damage.

Last updated: February 2026

No. Over-the-range microwaves are built to be mounted to cabinetry and vented as designed; using one loose on a countertop can block airflow, create stability issues, and defeat the intended installation and safety setup. For your Kenmore 72163263301, follow the placement and safety rules in the owner's manual.

What to do instead

• Use a true countertop microwave on a flat, stable surface.
• Keep all vents and openings clear; do not cover or block openings.
• Plug into a properly grounded outlet (no damaged cord or plug).
• Keep the cord from hanging over the counter edge.
• Do not operate any microwave empty or without the glass tray/turntable parts installed.

Quick comparison: over-the-range vs countertop use

Feature	Over-the-range microwave	Countertop microwave
Intended location	Mounted above a range	Sits on a counter
Airflow/venting	Designed around cabinet mounting and ducting/recirculation	Designed to breathe in open counter space
Stability	Secured with brackets/bolts	Stable base and feet
Typical risk if used wrong	Overheating, tipping, blocked vents	Fewer installation-related risks

Why it matters

Microwaves rely on correct airflow and a stable, level setup to prevent overheating and to keep the door and safety interlocks working as intended. The Kenmore 72163263301 manual also stresses basic safety practices such as keeping openings unblocked, using a grounded outlet, and never running the oven empty.

If you are setting up a countertop microwave (like model 72163263301)

• Confirm the glass turntable and support are installed correctly; a worn support can cause wobble (see microwave turntable tray support 5889W2A014D).
• If the tray does not rotate, check the drive motor (see microwave turntable motor 6549W1S011B).
• If the unit is not heating, stop using it and troubleshoot with a qualified technician; high-voltage components can be dangerous (see why is my microwave not heating).

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore countertop microwaves like model 72163263301 are built for dependable everyday cooking, with solid power and practical features. This model is rated at 1,100 watts output and 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, which is a strong, “good” performance range for fast reheating and cooking when it’s installed and maintained correctly (see the 72163263301 owner's manual).

What “good” means for this Kenmore microwave

A good microwave should heat evenly, run reliably, and fit your space and electrical setup. For model 72163263301, the manual lists key specs that support strong day-to-day performance.

• Microwave output: 1,100 W (fast heating for most foods)
• Power supply: 120 VAC, 60 Hz (standard U.S. outlet)
• Rated current: 12.5 A (avoid overloaded circuits)
• Cavity capacity: 1.2 cu. ft. (typical family countertop size)
• Ventilation needs: at least 4 inches of clearance on left, right, top, and rear

Quick spec check (model 72163263301)

Spec	What it tells you	Why it matters
1,100 W output	Heating strength	Faster cook and reheat times
1.2 cu. ft.	Interior space	Fits most plates and medium cookware
20 9/19 in. W x 11 17/20 in. H x 16 21/46 in. D	Overall size	Helps confirm countertop fit

What affects performance and longevity

Even a good microwave can seem “bad” if setup or common wear items cause problems.

• Keep vents unblocked and maintain the required clearance
• Use the turntable correctly; chips or scratches can lead to breakage
• If heating performance drops, common causes include high-voltage components (diagnosis should be done safely)
• If the turntable stops rotating, the drive system may need attention

If your main concern is weak or no heat, our troubleshooting steps in why is my microwave not heating help you narrow down likely causes before replacing parts.

Why it matters

Choosing a “good” microwave is really about matching power, capacity, and reliability to how you cook. Model 72163263301 has the wattage and size most households want; correct ventilation and basic care are what keep it performing like it should.

Last updated: February 2026