Over the range microwaves are great for cooking, especially if you don’t have much space. Nevertheless, they can be difficult to remove when you need to clean them or repair them. Here are all the steps you need to take:
First, you’ll need to disconnect power to the microwave. Unplug the microwave from the outlet, and then turn off the circuit breaker that powers the outlet. Next, you’ll need to remove the mounting screws. There are usually four screws located on the top of the microwave. Remove these screws using a screwdriver. Now, you can carefully lift the microwave up and off of the range. If the microwave is heavy, you may need to get someone to help you.
Once the microwave is off the range, you can clean it or repair it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning or repairing your particular model of microwave. when you’re finished, you can replace the microwave on the range. Simply lift the microwave back into place and secure it with the mounting screws. Finally, plug the microwave back into the outlet and turn on the circuit breaker.
Safety Precautions
When removing an over-the-range microwave, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some detailed precautions to follow:
1. Disconnect Electricity and Gas
Before starting any work:
- Unplug the microwave: Locate the electrical cord where it plugs into the wall outlet and unplug it. Never pull on the cord itself.
- Turn off the circuit breaker: Identify the circuit breaker that powers the microwave and turn it off. This will cut off the electrical supply to the appliance.
- Disconnect the gas line: If your microwave is gas-powered, turn off the gas valve at the main gas line and disconnect the gas line from the microwave.
Note: Ensure that the power and gas supply are completely disconnected before proceeding with the removal process.
Additional Tips:
- Use a non-conductive tool to unplug the microwave to avoid electrical shocks.
- If you are not comfortable dealing with electrical or gas connections, consult a qualified electrician or gas technician for assistance.
- Screwdriver
- Phillips head bit
- Socket wrench
- 10mm socket
- Drill
- 3/16″ drill bit
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Unplug the microwave from the outlet.
- Remove the screws that secure the microwave to the mounting bracket. These screws are typically located on the top and bottom of the microwave.
- Carefully lift the microwave up and off of the mounting bracket.
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Drill
- 1/8-inch drill bit
- Screws
- Drywall anchors
- Hold the microwave up to the wall and mark the locations of the mounting holes with a pencil.
- Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes at the marked locations.
- Insert drywall anchors into the pilot holes.
- Drive screws through the mounting holes in the microwave and into the drywall anchors.
- Tighten the screws until the microwave is securely attached to the wall.
| Safety Gear | Importance |
|---|---|
| Non-conductive gloves | Protects hands from electrical shocks |
| Safety glasses | Shields eyes from falling debris or fumes |
| Respirator mask | Filters out dust and fumes when working in confined spaces |
Tools and Materials Required
Essential Tools
* Screwdriver (Phillips and/or flathead)
* Tape measure or ruler
* Level
* Pencil or marking tool
* Safety glasses
* Step ladder or stool
Materials
* New over-the-range microwave (optional)
* Electrical tape
* Wire nuts
* Caulk gun (optional)
* Silicone caulk (optional)
Additional Tools for Complex Removals
If your microwave is particularly old or has been installed in an unconventional manner, you may need additional tools such as:
| Tool | Purpose |
|—|—|
| Wire strippers | To strip insulation from electrical wires |
| Voltage tester | To check for live wires |
| Utility knife | To cut through caulking or other sealant |
| Pry bar | To gently pry loose stubborn fittings |
| Drill | To remove screws that have seized or cannot be turned with a screwdriver |
| Hammer | To tap on stubborn fittings to loosen them |
Disconnecting Electrical Power
Before you begin any work on the microwave, it is crucial to ensure that the electrical power is disconnected. Here are the detailed steps to safely disconnect the electrical power:
1. Locate the Circuit Breaker or Fuse Box
Identify the circuit breaker or fuse box that controls the power supply to the microwave. It is typically labeled with “Microwave” or “Over the Range.” Turn off the corresponding breaker or remove the appropriate fuse.
2. Test the Power Supply
Using a non-contact voltage tester or multimeter, verify that the power is indeed disconnected at the microwave outlet. Touch the tester’s probe to both terminals of the outlet. If the tester does not light up or the multimeter does not read any voltage, the power is successfully disconnected.
3. Remove the Microwave’s Electrical Connection
Once the power is confirmed to be off, disconnect the microwave’s electrical connection. These steps may vary slightly depending on the model and installation:
| Microwave Type | Disconnection Method |
|---|---|
| Microwave with a Plug | Unplug the microwave’s power cord from the outlet. |
| Microwave Hardwired to Electrical Circuit | Turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse that controls the microwave’s circuit. Then, use a screwdriver to disconnect the electrical wires from the microwave’s terminal block. |
| Microwave with a Junction Box | Locate the junction box connected to the microwave’s electrical wires. Open the junction box and disconnect the wires from the microwave’s wiring harness. |
Removing the Mounting Bracket
To remove the mounting bracket, you’ll need the following tools:
Follow these steps to remove the mounting bracket:
If the microwave is heavy, you may need to have someone assist you in lifting it.
Now you will need to remove the mounting bracket itself. The mounting bracket is typically secured to the wall with four screws. Locate these screws and remove them using a screwdriver or drill. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the mounting bracket off of the wall.
If the mounting bracket is still stuck to the wall, you may need to use a hammer and chisel to pry it loose. Be careful not to damage the wall when doing this.
Detaching the Microwave from the Cabinet
1. Turn off the Power
Before beginning any work, make sure the power to the microwave is turned off at the breaker panel. This will prevent any electrical accidents.
2. Remove the Trim
Many over-the-range microwaves have a trim piece that covers the gap between the microwave and the cabinet. This trim can usually be removed by unscrewing a few screws and then pulling it off.
3. Disconnect the Electrical Wiring
Once the trim is removed, you will have access to the electrical wiring that connects the microwave to the power supply. Carefully disconnect these wires, making sure to note which wire goes to which terminal.
4. Remove the Mounting Screws
The microwave is typically held in place by a few screws that are located on the top and sides of the unit. Remove these screws using a screwdriver.
5. Lower the Microwave
Once the microwave is detached from the cabinet, carefully lower it to the floor. Be sure to support the microwave with your hands or a second person to prevent it from falling and causing damage.
Lowering the Microwave Safely
Over-the-range microwaves can be heavy, so it is important to lower them carefully to avoid injury or damage. Here are some tips for lowering the microwave safely:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clear the area below the microwave of any obstacles. |
| 2 | Get a sturdy step stool or ladder for assistance. |
| 3 | Have a helper support the other end of the microwave as you carefully lower it. |
| 4 | Bend your knees and keep your back straight as you lower the microwave. |
| 5 | Once the microwave is on the floor, inspect it for any damage. |
Removing the Microwave from the Wall
Before removing the microwave from the wall, ensure that it is unplugged from the electrical outlet. You will also need a screwdriver and a drill or power screwdriver with the appropriate bits.
Disconnect the Power
Locate the electrical outlet that the microwave is plugged into and unplug it.
Remove the Screws
On the top and bottom of the microwave, there will be screws that are holding it in place. Use the screwdriver to remove these screws.
Lower the Microwave
Once the screws are removed, carefully lower the microwave down from the wall. Be sure to support the weight of the microwave as you do this.
Pull the Microwave Forward
Once the microwave is lowered down, pull it forward to detach it from the wall mount. Be careful not to damage the microwave or the wall.
Remove the Mount
Once the microwave is pulled forward, you can see the mounting bracket on the wall. Use the drill or power screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the bracket in place. Once the screws are removed, the bracket can be taken off the wall.
| Screw Location | Screw Size |
|---|---|
| Top of Microwave | #8 x 1″ |
| Bottom of Microwave | #10 x 1-1/4″ |
| Mounting Bracket | #12 x 1-1/2″ |
Removing the Vent
1. **Pull the range hood down and away from the wall.** Be careful not to pull too hard, as you could damage the hood or the wall.
2. **Unplug the range hood from the electrical outlet.**
3. **Remove the screws that are holding the vent in place.** There are typically two screws located on either side of the vent.
4. **Gently pull the vent away from the range hood.** Be careful not to damage the vent or the range hood.
5. **Clean the vent with soap and water.**
6. **Dry the vent completely.**
7. **Reinstall the vent by following the steps in reverse order.** Be sure to tighten the screws securely.
Additional Tips for Removing the Vent
The following table provides some additional tips for removing the vent from your over-the-range microwave.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a screwdriver with the correct size bit. | Using a screwdriver with the wrong size bit can damage the screws or the range hood. |
| Be careful not to overtighten the screws. | Overtightening the screws can damage the vent or the range hood. |
| Clean the vent regularly. | Cleaning the vent regularly will help to prevent grease and debris from building up and causing problems. |
Reinstalling the Vent
1. Remove the screws that secure the vent to the microwave.
2. Disconnect the vent from the microwave by pulling it straight out.
3. Clean the vent with soap and water.
4. Inspect the vent for any damage. If the vent is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Reinstall the vent by sliding it back into place.
6. Secure the vent with screws.
7. Reconnect the vent to the microwave.
8. Test the vent to make sure it is working properly. To do this, turn on the microwave and place a cup of water in the microwave. The vent should start to suck the air out of the microwave. If the vent is not working properly, check the vent for any obstructions.
| Reinstalling the Vent | |
|---|---|
| 1. | Remove the screws that secure the vent to the microwave. |
| 2. | Disconnect the vent from the microwave by pulling it straight out. |
| 3. | Clean the vent with soap and water. |
| 4. | Inspect the vent for any damage. If the vent is damaged, it will need to be replaced. |
| 5. | Reinstall the vent by sliding it back into place. |
| 6. | Secure the vent with screws. |
| 7. | Reconnect the vent to the microwave. |
| 8. | Test the vent to make sure it is working properly. |
Reattaching the Microwave to the Wall
Once you have removed the microwave from the wall, you will need to reattach it securely. To do this, you will need the following tools:
Here are the steps on how to reattach the microwave to the wall:
Here is a table summarizing the steps to reattach the microwave to the wall:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hold the microwave up to the wall and mark the locations of the mounting holes with a pencil. |
| 2 | Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes at the marked locations. |
| 3 | Insert drywall anchors into the pilot holes. |
| 4 | Drive screws through the mounting holes in the microwave and into the drywall anchors. |
| 5 | Tighten the screws until the microwave is securely attached to the wall. |
Once you have reattached the microwave to the wall, you can plug it back in and test it to make sure it is working properly.
Restoring Electrical Power
Once the microwave is removed, you will need to restore electrical power to the circuit. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that powers the microwave circuit.
2. Remove the faceplate from the electrical box where the circuit breaker or fuse is located.
3. Locate the circuit breaker or fuse that is tripped or blown.
4. Reset the circuit breaker by flipping it back to the “on” position. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
5. Reinstall the faceplate on the electrical box.
6. Turn on the circuit breaker or fuse to restore power to the microwave circuit.
7. Test the microwave to make sure it is working properly.
Additional Tips for Restoring Electrical Power
* If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to call a qualified electrician to restore power to the microwave circuit.
* Make sure that the circuit breaker or fuse that you are resetting or replacing is the correct one for the microwave circuit.
* If the circuit breaker or fuse trips or blows again after you have reset or replaced it, there may be a problem with the microwave or the wiring. In this case, you should call a qualified electrician to troubleshoot the problem.
| Circuit Breaker or Fuse Amperage | Microwave Wattage |
|---|---|
| 15 amps | Up to 1500 watts |
| 20 amps | 1501 to 2000 watts |
| 30 amps | 2001 to 3000 watts |
How To Remove Over The Range Microwave
Step 1: Turn off the power to the microwave. This is typically done by unplugging the microwave from the electrical outlet. However, if you cannot unplug the microwave, you can turn off the power at the circuit breaker panel.
Step 2: Remove the trim kit. The trim kit is the decorative piece that surrounds the microwave. It is typically held in place by screws or clips. To remove the trim kit, simply unscrew or unclip the screws or clips and pull the trim kit away from the microwave.
Step 3: Disconnect the power cord. The power cord is located at the back of the microwave. To disconnect the power cord, simply unplug it from the outlet.
Step 4: Remove the mounting screws. The mounting screws are located on the top and bottom of the microwave. To remove the mounting screws, simply turn them counterclockwise with a screwdriver.
Step 5: Lower the microwave. Once the mounting screws have been removed, you can lower the microwave by carefully lifting it up and away from the wall. Be sure to have someone assist you with this step to prevent the microwave from falling.
Step 6: Remove the microwave from the cabinet. Once the microwave has been lowered, you can remove it from the cabinet by carefully pulling it straight out.
People Also Ask
How do I remove the over the range microwave trim kit?
To remove the trim kit, simply unscrew or unclip the screws or clips that are holding it in place. Once the screws or clips have been removed, pull the trim kit away from the microwave.
How do I disconnect the power cord from the over the range microwave?
To disconnect the power cord from the microwave, simply unplug it from the outlet.
How do I remove the mounting screws from the over the range microwave?
To remove the mounting screws, simply turn them counterclockwise with a screwdriver.
How do I lower the over the range microwave?
Once the mounting screws have been removed, you can lower the microwave by carefully lifting it up and away from the wall. Be sure to have someone assist you with this step to prevent the microwave from falling.
How do I remove the over the range microwave from the cabinet?
Once the microwave has been lowered, you can remove it from the cabinet by carefully pulling it straight out.
