Over-the-range microwaves might be a good way to avoid wasting house in a small kitchen and to maintain your counter tops clear. Nevertheless, they may also be a ache to take away, particularly should you’re undecided methods to do it safely. On this article, we’ll stroll you thru the steps on methods to take away an overhead microwave with out damaging it or your self.
Earlier than you begin, it is vital to assemble the precise instruments. You will want a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You might also need to have a helper readily available to help you.
Upon getting the required instruments and helpers, you possibly can start the removing course of. First, you will have to disconnect the facility to the microwave. This may be performed by unplugging the microwave from the outlet or by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the microwave. As soon as the facility is disconnected, you possibly can start eradicating the mounting screws. There’ll usually be 4 screws positioned on the underside of the microwave. As soon as the screws are eliminated, you possibly can fastidiously elevate the microwave off of the mounting bracket.
Disconnecting Energy and Gasoline Line
Energy Disconnect
Earlier than detaching the microwave from the wall, it is essential to make sure that the facility is totally disconnected. This includes a number of steps:
- Find the circuit breaker or fuse field that controls the microwave’s energy provide.
- Flip the breaker change to the “off” place or take away the fuse.
- Wait a couple of minutes to permit the facility to dissipate absolutely.
- Double-check that there isn’t any energy flowing to the microwave utilizing a voltage tester or multimeter.
As soon as you’ve got confirmed that the facility is disconnected, proceed with the opposite steps to take away the microwave safely.
Gasoline Line Disconnect (if relevant)
In case your overhead microwave is related to a fuel line, comply with these extra steps to disconnect it:
- Flip off the fuel provide valve positioned on the fuel supply (usually a fuel meter or tank).
- Find the fuel connection to the microwave and use a wrench to fastidiously disconnect the road.
- Cap the fuel line opening on each the microwave and the fuel supply to forestall any leaks.
- Use a fuel leak detector to verify for any remaining fuel within the line.
| Disconnect Sequence | Motion |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find circuit breaker or fuse field |
| 2 | Flip off energy to microwave |
| 3 | Await energy to dissipate |
| 4 | Verify no energy utilizing tester |
| 5 | Disconnect fuel line (if relevant) |
| 6 | Cap fuel line openings |
| 7 | Verify for fuel leaks |
Detaching the Microwave from the Cupboard
Upon getting disconnected the facility and eliminated the quilt, it’s good to proceed to detach the microwave from the cupboard. This may be performed by following these steps:
- Find the screws which can be holding the microwave in place. These screws are normally positioned 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 possibly can fastidiously elevate the microwave out of the cupboard. Watch out to not drop the microwave, as it’s heavy.
Hanging the Microwave from Facet Brackets:
In case your microwave is hung from aspect brackets, detaching it requires extra steps. Observe these directions:
- Determine the aspect brackets which can be supporting the microwave. They’re usually positioned on both aspect of the equipment.
- Take away the screws holding the microwave to the aspect brackets. This may occasionally require eradicating a number of screws per bracket.
- Gently elevate the microwave upward, tilting it barely away from the wall. It will disengage it from the brackets.
- Slide the microwave straight out from the cupboard opening.
| Bracket Sort | Removing 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 immediately attaching the microwave to the aspect brackets. |
| Locking Tabs | Determine 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 metallic bracket that holds the microwave in place on the wall or cupboard. To take away it, comply with these steps:
1. Flip off the facility to the microwave.
Find the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the microwave and switch it off. It will 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 usually 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 will probably be heavy, so watch out to not drop it. As soon as the microwave is off of the mounting plate, you possibly can 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 possibly can 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 harm.
As soon as the mounting plate is eliminated, examine it for any harm. If there may be any harm, you will have to exchange the mounting plate earlier than you possibly can reinstall the microwave.
Reducing the Microwave
Earlier than starting, be sure that the microwave is unplugged and all gadgets have been faraway from the cupboard. First, determine the mounting bracket holding the microwave in place. This bracket will usually be positioned 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 utterly 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 areas, it is suggested 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 facility provide. Earlier than you start, be sure that to disconnect the facility 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 usually positioned on the highest or aspect of the microwave. Upon getting eliminated the screws, the exhaust vent needs to be free and simple to take away.
- Pull the exhaust vent straight out. Watch out to not harm the vent or the microwave while you pull it out.
- Clear the exhaust vent. Upon getting eliminated the exhaust vent, it’s best to clear it with a moist fabric. You too can use a gentle detergent to take away any grease or grime.
- Reinstall the exhaust vent. Upon getting cleaned the exhaust vent, you possibly can reinstall it by following the steps in reverse order. Guarantee that the screws are tight and that the vent is correctly seated earlier than you flip the facility again on.
Instruments Required:
|
Philips screwdriver |
Damp fabric |
Delicate detergent (non-compulsory) |
Protecting the Gap within the Cupboard
As soon as the microwave is eliminated, you will be left with a gap within the cupboard. You’ll be able to cowl it up with a couple of totally different strategies:
- Buy a cupboard filler panel. These panels are designed to suit the house left by a eliminated microwave and can be found in varied sizes and finishes to match your cabinetry.
- Lower a chunk of plywood to suit the opening. Paint or stain the plywood to match the cupboard and fix it with screws or nails.
- Set up a shelf or different storage unit within the house. This can be a nice approach to make use of the additional house 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 | Tough | $50-$100 |
For those who select to put in a shelf or storage unit, be sure that to safe it correctly in order that it would not fall and trigger harm.
Cleansing the Microwave
Cleansing your overhead microwave is vital for each security and efficiency. Here is a step-by-step information that can assist you clear your microwave successfully:
1. Collect Your Provides
You will want: a gentle fabric or sponge, a sprig bottle full of 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 gentle fabric 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
Permit the steam to sit down 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 sit down, use a gentle fabric or sponge dampened with water to wipe down the inside of the microwave, together with the ceiling, partitions, and ground.
7. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the inside and exterior of the microwave with clear water and dry it totally with a clear towel to forestall 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 will probably be uncovered. If the outdated vent is broken or soiled, it needs 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 outdated vent is in good situation, it may be reused. Nevertheless, you will need to clear the vent earlier than reinstalling it. To scrub the vent, take away the screws that maintain the vent cowl in place, after which pull the quilt off. Take away any grease or particles from the vent cowl and the within of the vent. As soon as the vent is clear, exchange the quilt and safe it with the screws.
As soon as the exhaust vent is reinstalled, the microwave might 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 had 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 outdated vent is broken or soiled, exchange it with a brand new one. |
| 4 | If the outdated 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 outdated microwave has been eliminated, it is time to reinstall a brand new one. Listed here are the steps to comply with:
- 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.
- Cling the microwave: Carry the microwave and punctiliously place it onto the mounting bracket. Guarantee it’s steady and safe.
- Tighten the screws: Find the 2 screws on both aspect of the microwave and tighten them utilizing a screwdriver. It will safe the microwave to the mounting bracket.
- Join the facility: Plug the facility twine of the microwave into a close-by outlet.
- Substitute the trim: Substitute the trim piece that was eliminated through the removing course of. Safe it with screws or clips.
- Take a look at the microwave: Activate the microwave and take a look at its performance to make sure it’s working correctly.
- Get pleasure from your new microwave: You have got now efficiently reinstalled the microwave. Use it to arrange scrumptious meals and warmth up snacks with ease.
| Required Instruments: |
|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver |
| Drill or influence driver |
| Wrench |
| Stage |
| Security glasses |
Step 1: Flip Off Electrical energy and Gasoline
Security first! Start by switching off the facility provide on the circuit breaker panel. Find the breaker labeled “microwave” or “kitchen” and flip it to the “OFF” place. Moreover, flip off the fuel provide valve positioned close to the fuel line related to the microwave.
Step 2: Disconnect Wiring
Fastidiously unplug {the electrical} twine from the microwave. Word the placement 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 simple reconnection in a while.
Step 3: Take away the Mounting Screws
Overhead microwaves are usually secured by two or extra screws positioned on the underside of the cupboard. Utilizing a screwdriver, find and take away these screws.
Step 4: Carry the Microwave
Fastidiously seize the microwave from the underside and elevate it straight as much as detach it from the cupboard. Be conscious of any remaining wires or connections that 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 possibly can discard it.
Step 6: Clear the Space
Take this chance to wipe down the cupboard and the world 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 unique 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. Verify if the facility is restored to the outlet the place the microwave was plugged in.
Reconnecting Energy and Gasoline Line
- Discuss with the labeled wires from Step 2. Join the wires again to the terminal block on the microwave, making certain they’re fixed securely.
- Plug {the electrical} twine of the microwave again into the outlet.
- Activate the microwave to make sure it’s functioning appropriately.
- Activate the fuel provide valve close to the fuel line related to the microwave.
- Take a look at the microwave to confirm that the fuel is flowing correctly.
Step 9: Reconnect Electrical Wires
Step 10: Reconnect to Electrical energy
Step 11: Reconnect to Gasoline Line
Learn how to Take away an Overhead Microwave
Eradicating an overhead microwave generally is a daunting job, however it isn’t unattainable. With the precise instruments and somewhat little bit of endurance, you possibly can safely take away your microwave and release some worthwhile house in your kitchen.
Instruments You Will Want:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Wrench
- Electrical tape
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Flip off the facility to the microwave on the circuit breaker.
2. Take away the screws which can be holding the microwave to the cupboard. There’ll usually 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 harm the wires or the microwave itself.
4. Disconnect {the electrical} wires from the microwave. There’ll usually be two wires, a black wire and a white wire. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts which can be 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 usually 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 positioned. You should use a putty knife and spackling paste to fill the holes.
7. Reinstall the cupboard door.
8. Activate the facility to the microwave on the circuit breaker.
Individuals Additionally Ask About Learn 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 usually 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 quick to succeed in {the electrical} outlet?
If the wires to your microwave are too quick to succeed in {the electrical} outlet, you will have to increase the wires. To do that, you will have to buy {an electrical} extension twine that’s rated for the amperage of your microwave. Lower the extension twine in half and strip the ends of the wires. Join the black wire from the extension twine to the black wire from the microwave. Do the identical with the white wire. Safe the connections with electrical tape.
