An Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Installation Guide (In 13 Easy Steps)
An over-the-range microwave oven is a space-saving option because it can be installed above the range, where it will benefit from natural light and air circulation.
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1
Do not turn on the lights It is important to exercise caution when using a microwave because it is an electrical appliance. Be sure to turn off the range's circuit at the breaker before beginning installation. [1]
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2
Ensure that you have access to a power source. An over-the-range microwave's short power cord is routed upward into the cabinet it rests on. Plug the power cord into an outlet, if one is available, inside this cabinet. [2]
- The installation manual for your microwave will tell you if you can use any other electrical outlet besides the one it came with.
- Before placing the microwave, it is recommended to consult an electrician to help with the installation of an outlet if one is not already present in a convenient location.
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3
If you want to install a microwave, make sure you can do so at the right height. [3] Typically, a microwave's base shouldn't be more than 54 inches (140 cm) from the ground. Also, the distance between the base of the microwave and the top of the stove should be somewhere between 20 and 24 inches (51 to 61 centimeters). You'll be able to use the microwave and stovetop with ease and safety. [4]
- Check the microwave's height with a measuring tape.
- Take a measurement from the floor to the top of the microwave's mounting cabinet. Leave a mark right here
- Make sure the microwave will be at the proper height by measuring the distance from this mark to the floor and the top of your range.
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4
Find out which way the air is blowing. Because it will be placed above the range (in the place of a range hood), the microwave's fan will have to vent outside alongside the range hood. A horizontal tube in the wall is one option, while a vertical route through the cabinet above the microwave and then the ceiling or higher up on the wall is another. [5]
- A microwave's ventilation system may require the installation of optional accessories. See if your model has specific instructions for setting it up.
- You should hire a contractor to install a ventilation system if you do not already have one. [6]
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5
To rephrase the introduction if necessary: To put it another way, the strength of your kitchen's cabinetry and framing will determine whether or not an over-the-range microwave of average weight will be safe to install there. To reinforce the area for the microwave installation, use two by fours if the existing framework isn't solid. Experts seem to agree that rephrasing is always a good idea. [7]
- Some microwaves include a template for framing in the package they are purchased in. Position it where you'd like to install the microwave, and use the lines as a guide as you make your drywall cuts.
- Take out the insulation and the drywall from inside the wall.
- Attach two-by-fours to the wall studs to keep them from moving. Please refer to your microwave's manual for the correct measurements.
- Replace any worn insulation.
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1
Check to see if a wall plate or template is included with your microwave. Typically, a template is included with your model to help with the mounting hardware installation process. Putting this up on the wall will serve as a guide for mounting the necessary hardware. A mounting bracket with pre-drilled holes is included with some models for easy installation. [8]
- Check the squareness of the template and the placement of the microwave with a level. [9]
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2
Discover at least one stud The mounting hardware needs to be fastened to at least one stud in the wall if you did not reframe the installation site. You can either tap the wall lightly with a hammer or use an electronic stud finder to locate the studs. Having found a stud when the taps are dull rather than hollow is a sure sign. Draw a line on the wall to remember this spot [10]
- Typically, the distance between wall studs is 16 inches (41 cm). Find one, then mark others 16 inches to either side of it.
- Check that at least one of the studs in your wall will be used to mount the hardware using the template. If not, redesign the site or hire a professional.
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3
Either make holes in the template or fasten the wall plate. [11] Toggle bolts are typically used for mounting over-the-range microwaves. The installation of these bolts will be simplified if you first predrill the necessary holes (in accordance with the template's instructions, of course). Install the wall plate according to the instructions for your specific model, using the screws and other mounting options specified there. [12]
- You will probably need a few drill bits: one or two smaller ones for the toggle bolts, and one or two larger ones for drilling a hole in the cabinet above the microwave to run the power cord through. Make sure you use the equipment the manufacturer suggests for your model.
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4
Get the microwave ready to go, either on the counter or on the wall You should enlist a helping hand to hold the microwave if you don't already have one. [13] You can find it at the base of your cabinet; just push it up. Attach the wall plate to your model's bracket if it comes with one. For the time being, someone should keep holding the microwave. [14]
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5
Get the microwave ready by plugging it in. Run the power cord for the microwave through the hole you made in the base of the cabinet above it. Connect the plug to the socket inside the cabinet, but wait to turn the power back on until you are sure it is secure. [15]
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6
Anchor the base of the cabinet with bolts. After drilling holes in the base of the cabinet, insert the bolts (or screws) that came with your microwave (or those suggested by the microwave's instructions) They go into slots on the microwave's lid. Using a wrench (or screwdriver), tighten them until the microwave is firmly fastened in place. [16]
- At this point, you can safely let go of the microwave, but you should do so with caution.
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7
The fan needs to be hooked up. Connect the microwave's exhaust fan to the vent. Different models have different requirements, so it's important to study the manual that came with your specific device. In order to make the connection completely watertight, the majority of manufacturers also advise using an approved sealant around the fan's housing's edges. [17]
- Depending on the setup of your ventilation system, you may need to remove the fan and switch its orientation.
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8
Perform a microwave test. Activating the range circuit can be done by returning its switch to its "on" position. Make sure the microwave is getting power and is functioning properly by heating something.
- Read the troubleshooting guide if the appliance's manual has one, or get in touch with the maker if the problem persists.
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Question
May I do the over-the-range microwave installation myself?
Professor Gevorg GrigorianOwner of G and R Appliance Repair in Los Angeles, California, Gevorg Grigorian specializes in fixing home appliances. Gevorg has been in the HVAC business for over a decade, and he is also an appliance repair expert for both homes and businesses. Gevorg graduated from California State University, Northridge with a bachelor's degree in business administration and management.
Certified Appliance Technician
Inquire Here
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- An assortment of drill bits
- A small hammer or stud finder
- Tools for screwing things together
- Instrument for wrenching with variable settings
- Mechanical fasteners with a "toggle"
- A level
- Indicative of Size: A Tape Measure
- A saw for cutting drywall
- Sealant
Co-authors: 14
Updated: Time: Tuesday, February 25, 2022
Views: 383,211
Categories: Reheatable Ovens
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