Over-the-range microwaves could be an effective way to avoid wasting area in a small kitchen and to maintain your counter tops clear. Nonetheless, they can be a ache to take away, particularly if you happen to’re undecided the right way to do it safely. On this article, we are going to stroll you thru the steps on the right way to take away an overhead microwave with out damaging it or your self.
Earlier than you begin, it is vital to assemble the suitable instruments. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You may additionally need to have a helper available to help you.
After you have the required instruments and helpers, you’ll be able to start the removing course of. First, you will have to disconnect the ability to the microwave. This may be carried out by unplugging the microwave from the outlet or by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the microwave. As soon as the ability is disconnected, you’ll be able to start eradicating the mounting screws. There’ll sometimes be 4 screws situated on the underside of the microwave. As soon as the screws are eliminated, you’ll be able to fastidiously elevate the microwave off of the mounting bracket.
Disconnecting Energy and Fuel Line
Energy Disconnect
Earlier than detaching the microwave from the wall, it is essential to make sure that the ability is totally disconnected. This entails a number of steps:
- Find the circuit breaker or fuse field that controls the microwave’s energy provide.
- Flip the breaker swap to the “off” place or take away the fuse.
- Wait a couple of minutes to permit the ability to dissipate absolutely.
- Double-check that there isn’t a energy flowing to the microwave utilizing a voltage tester or multimeter.
As soon as you’ve got confirmed that the ability is disconnected, proceed with the opposite steps to take away the microwave safely.
Fuel Line Disconnect (if relevant)
In case your overhead microwave is related to a gasoline line, observe these extra steps to disconnect it:
- Flip off the gasoline provide valve situated on the gasoline supply (sometimes a gasoline meter or tank).
- Find the gasoline connection to the microwave and use a wrench to fastidiously disconnect the road.
- Cap the gasoline line opening on each the microwave and the gasoline supply to stop any leaks.
- Use a gasoline leak detector to verify for any remaining gasoline within the line.
| Disconnect Sequence | Motion |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find circuit breaker or fuse field |
| 2 | Flip off energy to microwave |
| 3 | Look forward to energy to dissipate |
| 4 | Affirm no energy utilizing tester |
| 5 | Disconnect gasoline line (if relevant) |
| 6 | Cap gasoline line openings |
| 7 | Examine for gasoline leaks |
Detaching the Microwave from the Cupboard
After you have disconnected the ability and eliminated the duvet, it’s essential proceed to detach the microwave from the cupboard. This may be carried out by following these steps:
- Find the screws which are holding the microwave in place. These screws are often situated on the highest and backside of the cupboard.
- Utilizing a screwdriver, fastidiously take away the screws.
- As soon as the screws have been eliminated, you’ll be able to fastidiously elevate the microwave out of the cupboard. Watch out to not drop the microwave, as it’s heavy.
Hanging the Microwave from Aspect Brackets:
In case your microwave is hung from aspect brackets, detaching it requires extra steps. Observe these directions:
- Establish the aspect brackets which are supporting the microwave. They’re sometimes situated on both aspect of the equipment.
- Take away the screws holding the microwave to the aspect brackets. This will require eradicating a number of screws per bracket.
- Gently elevate the microwave upward, tilting it barely away from the wall. This can disengage it from the brackets.
- Slide the microwave straight out from the cupboard opening.
| Bracket Kind | Elimination Directions |
|---|---|
| Hidden Screw | Find the screws hidden behind the microwave’s trim or door panel. Take away them utilizing a screwdriver or drill. |
| Uncovered Screw | Unscrew the seen screws instantly attaching the microwave to the aspect brackets. |
| Locking Tabs | Establish the plastic locking tabs on the brackets. Squeeze the tabs to launch the microwave from its mounting place. |
Eradicating the Mounting Plate
The mounting plate is the steel bracket that holds the microwave in place on the wall or cupboard. To take away it, observe these steps:
1. Flip off the ability to the microwave.
Find the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the microwave and switch it off. This can stop you from getting shocked whereas engaged on the microwave.
2. Take away the screws that maintain the mounting plate to the wall or cupboard.
There’ll sometimes be 4 screws, two on either side of the mounting plate. Use a screwdriver to take away the screws.
3. Fastidiously elevate the microwave up and off of the mounting plate.
The microwave can be heavy, so watch out to not drop it. As soon as the microwave is off of the mounting plate, you’ll be able to set it apart.
4. Take away the mounting plate from the wall or cupboard.
As soon as the microwave is off of the mounting plate, you’ll be able to take away the mounting plate itself. To do that, merely elevate it up and off of the wall or cupboard.
5. Examine the mounting plate for injury.
As soon as the mounting plate is eliminated, examine it for any injury. If there’s any injury, you will have to switch the mounting plate earlier than you’ll be able to reinstall the microwave.
Decreasing the Microwave
Earlier than starting, be sure that the microwave is unplugged and all objects have been faraway from the cupboard. First, establish the mounting bracket holding the microwave in place. This bracket will sometimes be situated on the highest and sides of the microwave. Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the bolts or screws securing the bracket to the cupboard.
As soon as the screws or bolts are free, fastidiously elevate the microwave upward. As you elevate, slowly slide the microwave ahead till it clears the bracket. Proceed lifting the microwave till it’s fully free from the cupboard.
To decrease the microwave, fastidiously slide it again into the cupboard. As you slide the microwave in, align the bracket with the corresponding holes within the cupboard. Tighten the bolts or screws to safe the bracket and decrease the microwave into its closing place.
| **Tip:** For heavier microwaves or these put in in hard-to-reach places, it’s endorsed to have a second individual help within the reducing course of. |
Eradicating the Exhaust Vent
The exhaust vent is an important part of your over-the-range microwave, because it helps to take away smoke, grease, and odors out of your kitchen. Eradicating the exhaust vent is a comparatively easy course of that may be accomplished in a couple of steps.
- Disconnect the ability provide. Earlier than you start, be certain to disconnect the ability provide to your microwave. You are able to do this by unplugging the microwave or turning off the circuit breaker that powers it.
- Take away the screws that maintain the exhaust vent in place. The screws are sometimes situated on the highest or aspect of the microwave. After you have eliminated the screws, the exhaust vent ought to be free and straightforward to take away.
- Pull the exhaust vent straight out. Watch out to not injury the vent or the microwave once you pull it out.
- Clear the exhaust vent. After you have eliminated the exhaust vent, it’s best to clear it with a humid material. You too can use a light detergent to take away any grease or grime.
- Reinstall the exhaust vent. After you have cleaned the exhaust vent, you’ll be able to reinstall it by following the steps in reverse order. Ensure that the screws are tight and that the vent is correctly seated earlier than you flip the ability again on.
Instruments Required:
|
Philips screwdriver |
Damp material |
Gentle detergent (non-obligatory) |
Protecting the Gap within the Cupboard
As soon as the microwave is eliminated, you will be left with a gap within the cupboard. You possibly can cowl it up with a couple of totally different strategies:
- Buy a cupboard filler panel. These panels are designed to suit the area left by a eliminated microwave and can be found in varied sizes and finishes to match your cabinetry.
- Reduce a chunk of plywood to suit the opening. Paint or stain the plywood to match the cupboard and fasten it with screws or nails.
- Set up a shelf or different storage unit within the area. This can be a nice method to make use of the additional area and add extra storage to your kitchen.
| Technique | Issue | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cupboard filler panel | Simple | $20-$50 |
| Plywood panel | Average | $10-$20 |
| Shelf or storage unit | Troublesome | $50-$100 |
When you select to put in a shelf or storage unit, be certain to safe it correctly in order that it would not fall and trigger injury.
Cleansing the Microwave
Cleansing your overhead microwave is vital for each security and efficiency. This is a step-by-step information that can assist you clear your microwave successfully:
1. Collect Your Provides
You will want: a smooth material or sponge, a sprig bottle crammed with equal elements white vinegar and water, a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, and a clear towel.
2. Take away the Turntable and Tray
Take away the turntable and tray from the microwave and wash them totally with cleaning soap and heat water.
3. Wipe Down the Exterior
Use a smooth material or sponge dampened with the vinegar resolution to wipe down the outside of the microwave, together with the door, keypad, and sides.
4. Clear the Inside
Fill a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup with 1 cup of the vinegar resolution. Microwave on excessive for 5-7 minutes, or till the answer boils and steams up the inside of the microwave.
5. Let it Sit
Enable the steam to take a seat within the microwave for 10-Quarter-hour to loosen any meals particles or grease.
6. Wipe Down the Inside
As soon as the steam has had time to take a seat, use a smooth material or sponge dampened with water to wipe down the inside of the microwave, together with the ceiling, partitions, and flooring.
7. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the inside and exterior of the microwave with clear water and dry it totally with a clear towel to stop water spots. Reassemble the turntable and tray, and your microwave is now clear and able to use!
Reinstalling the Exhaust Vent
As soon as the microwave is eliminated, the exhaust vent can be uncovered. If the previous vent is broken or soiled, it ought to be changed. To do that, merely take away the screws that maintain the vent in place, after which pull the vent straight out of the opening. Insert the brand new vent into the opening and safe it with the screws.
If the previous vent is in good situation, it may be reused. Nonetheless, you will need to clear the vent earlier than reinstalling it. To wash the vent, take away the screws that maintain the vent cowl in place, after which pull the duvet off. Take away any grease or particles from the vent cowl and the within of the vent. As soon as the vent is clear, substitute the duvet and safe it with the screws.
As soon as the exhaust vent is reinstalled, the microwave could be put again in place. To do that, merely elevate the microwave up and slide it onto the mounting bracket. Safe the microwave to the bracket with the screws that have been eliminated earlier. As soon as the microwave is safe, the set up is full.
Here’s a desk that summarizes the steps for reinstalling the exhaust vent:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Take away the screws that maintain the exhaust vent in place. |
| 2 | Pull the exhaust vent straight out of the opening. |
| 3 | If the previous vent is broken or soiled, substitute it with a brand new one. |
| 4 | If the previous vent is in good situation, clear it earlier than reinstalling it. |
| 5 | Insert the exhaust vent into the opening and safe it with the screws. |
Reinstalling the Microwave
As soon as the previous microwave has been eliminated, it is time to reinstall a brand new one. Listed below are the steps to observe:
- Align the mounting bracket: Place the mounting bracket within the cupboard and align it with the holes on the microwave. Safe the bracket with screws or bolts.
- Dangle the microwave: Elevate the microwave and thoroughly place it onto the mounting bracket. Guarantee it’s secure and safe.
- Tighten the screws: Find the 2 screws on both aspect of the microwave and tighten them utilizing a screwdriver. This can safe the microwave to the mounting bracket.
- Join the ability: Plug the ability wire of the microwave into a close-by outlet.
- Change the trim: Change the trim piece that was eliminated throughout the removing course of. Safe it with screws or clips.
- Take a look at the microwave: Activate the microwave and check its performance to make sure it’s working correctly.
- Take pleasure in your new microwave: You will have now efficiently reinstalled the microwave. Use it to organize scrumptious meals and warmth up snacks with ease.
| Required Instruments: |
|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver |
| Drill or impression driver |
| Wrench |
| Degree |
| Security glasses |
Step 1: Flip Off Electrical energy and Fuel
Security first! Start by switching off the ability provide on the circuit breaker panel. Find the breaker labeled “microwave” or “kitchen” and flip it to the “OFF” place. Moreover, flip off the gasoline provide valve situated close to the gasoline line related to the microwave.
Step 2: Disconnect Wiring
Fastidiously unplug {the electrical} wire from the microwave. Word the situation of {the electrical} wires related to the microwave’s terminal block. Utilizing a screwdriver, loosen the screws holding the wires in place and disconnect them. Label the wires with tape for straightforward reconnection in a while.
Step 3: Take away the Mounting Screws
Overhead microwaves are sometimes secured by two or extra screws situated on the underside of the cupboard. Utilizing a screwdriver, find and take away these screws.
Step 4: Elevate the Microwave
Fastidiously seize the microwave from the underside and elevate it straight as much as detach it from the cupboard. Be aware of any remaining wires or connections which will nonetheless be hooked up.
Step 5: Unmount the Bracket
The microwave is probably going mounted on a bracket hooked up to the cupboard. Find and take away the screws holding the bracket in place. As soon as the bracket is indifferent, you’ll be able to discard it.
Step 6: Clear the Space
Take this chance to wipe down the cupboard and the realm the place the microwave was mounted, eradicating any mud or particles.
Step 7: Repackage the Microwave
As soon as the microwave is eliminated, wrap it securely in its authentic packaging or a thick blanket for cover.
Step 8: Reconnect Electrical energy
Return to the circuit breaker panel and switch the “microwave” or “kitchen” breaker again to the “ON” place. Examine if the ability is restored to the outlet the place the microwave was plugged in.
Reconnecting Energy and Fuel Line
- Check with the labeled wires from Step 2. Join the wires again to the terminal block on the microwave, making certain they’re mounted securely.
- Plug {the electrical} wire of the microwave again into the outlet.
- Activate the microwave to make sure it’s functioning accurately.
- Activate the gasoline provide valve close to the gasoline line related to the microwave.
- Take a look at the microwave to confirm that the gasoline is flowing correctly.
Step 9: Reconnect Electrical Wires
Step 10: Reconnect to Electrical energy
Step 11: Reconnect to Fuel Line
Find out how to Take away an Overhead Microwave
Eradicating an overhead microwave could be a daunting process, however it isn’t not possible. With the suitable instruments and a bit little bit of persistence, you’ll be able to safely take away your microwave and liberate some precious area in your kitchen.
Instruments You Will Want:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Wrench
- Electrical tape
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Flip off the ability to the microwave on the circuit breaker.
2. Take away the screws which are holding the microwave to the cupboard. There’ll sometimes be two screws on either side of the microwave.
3. Fastidiously elevate the microwave straight up and out of the cupboard. Watch out to not injury the wires or the microwave itself.
4. Disconnect {the electrical} wires from the microwave. There’ll sometimes be two wires, a black wire and a white wire. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts which are holding the wires in place, after which pull the wires out of the microwave.
5. Take away the mounting bracket from the cupboard. The mounting bracket is often held in place by two screws. Take away the screws after which elevate the mounting bracket off of the cupboard.
6. Patch the holes within the cupboard the place the mounting bracket was situated. You should use a putty knife and spackling paste to fill the holes.
7. Reinstall the cupboard door.
8. Activate the ability to the microwave on the circuit breaker.
Folks Additionally Ask About Find out how to Take away an Overhead Microwave
How do I take away the trim round my overhead microwave?
The trim round your overhead microwave is often held in place by screws or clips. Find the screws or clips and take away them. As soon as the trim is free, fastidiously pull it off of the microwave.
What do I do if the wires to my microwave are too brief to succeed in {the electrical} outlet?
If the wires to your microwave are too brief to succeed in {the electrical} outlet, you will have to increase the wires. To do that, you will have to buy {an electrical} extension wire that’s rated for the amperage of your microwave. Reduce the extension wire in half and strip the ends of the wires. Join the black wire from the extension wire to the black wire from the microwave. Do the identical with the white wire. Safe the connections with electrical tape.
