Why does turning on my cabinet-mounted microwave sometimes trip my circuit breaker?

Many Builders install a range hood above the range only to exhaust cooking heat and fumes. This is usually on a 15-amp lighting circuit and is more than adequate for an exhaust fan to operate. But often times when the exhaust fan is removed and a microwave is installed in its place. It’s just too much power for the circuit to handle and the circuit will blow. You really should consider installing a new 20-amp dedicated circuit for your microwave. If you have any additional questions, give Voltek Electric a call at 262-224-3226, or you can reach us through our online contact form.