At a Glance:
Why Should You Install An Over-The-Range Microwave?
How to Remove a Microwave Over Range in 5 Steps
Can You Install Your Own Over-The-Range Microwave?
Top 3 Microwave Options for Your Home
If you are starting a kitchen remodel, you might have a clear vision for changing the layout. Some smaller kitchens are built with the microwave over the stovetop range. This makes it easy to keep all of the appliances next to each other and allows for better ventilation. A stovetop and microwave combos are often sold with hood ventilators built into the bottom of the microwaves. If the stove gets smokey, the ventilator can catch the fumes.
If you are remodeling your home or choosing a different format for your kitchen, you might need to learn how to remove a microwave over range. Follow these steps to effectively remove the microwave and hood —then learn how to replace it with a new one.
Why Should You Install an Over-The-Range Microwave?
There are many benefits to installing this type of microwave system in your home. First, ventilation is essential when cooking. Even the best home cooks can create smokey kitchens by accident. Without a ventilation system, you could end up setting off your smoke alarm and having to open all your windows to clear the air.
Next, but catching smoke and steam, these systems also clean the air. They can remove odors from your kitchen and prevent them from lingering. While your family might enjoy the smell of fresh bacon in the morning, you might not want the scent to remain in your home all day.
Finally, these built-in microwaves save counter space. Countertop microwaves are bulky and take away room you need to prepare food. With this option, you gain a ventilation system and a microwave while only losing a little cabinet space.
How to Remove a Microwave Over Range in 5 Steps
Many homeowners agree that removing a microwave is easier than installing one. However, it still helps to have instructions to make this process smoother. Also, you might want to ask a friend or family member to help with the microwave removal, so it doesn’t fall unexpectedly and damage your cabinets or stovetop. Here is how to remove a microwave over range.
- Unplug your microwave. The cord is usually fed through a hole in your cabinets. Locate this plug and disconnect it from the wall.
- Identify the mounting screws in your cabinet. Open the cabinet above the microwave to see how it is attached. Undo these screws while supporting the microwave, so it doesn’t fall.
- Tilt the microwave to release it from the mounting bracket. This will detach your microwave from the wall. Be careful — with each step, the microwave has less support holding it up.
- Lift up the microwave. This will pop the tabs from the support brackets underneath it.
- Pull the microwave out. At this point, nothing should be holding your microwave against the wall. Slowly lower it and place it out of the way.
Your work isn’t done yet. There will likely be some leftover hardware from the old over-the-range microwave that you need to unscrew and remove. Even if you are replacing your previous microwave with a new one from the same brand, it is important to replace the hardware. Your new microwave might need more support or have brackets that line up differently from the old model.
Can You Install Your Own Over-The-Range Microwave?
When you buy an over-the-range microwave, it will come with assembly instructions. If you feel comfortable working with basic power tools (like electric drills), then you might be able to install these appliances on your own. However, you will need an extra set of hands — like a family member — to help hold up the microwave during installation.
If you don’t want to figure out how to install a microwave over the range, then request installation help when you order the product. An installation specialist should be able to deliver and install the microwave for you.
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Top 3 Microwave Options for Your Home
There are multiple options available if you want to add a microwave to your home that also offers hood ventilation. Get to know a few top products offered by East Coast Appliance that other customers love.
Frigidaire Gallery® 1.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
One of the top brands to consider when shopping for an over-the-range microwave is Frigidaire. This company paves the way in luxury microwave design, creating top-of-the-line products that heat your food while ventilating your stovetop. This particular model has several one-touch options, so you can easily choose your settings without clicking through a dozen buttons.
There are many reasons to purchase this Frigidaire over-the-range microwave. The SpaceWise® Rack allows you to double up the items you are heating. You can heat up two dishes at once or two components for one dish. The extra-large, 13.5-inch glass turntable can rotate your large plates and platters. The Zero-Clearance Door also makes it easy to insert and remove whatever you need heated.
You can take this microwave home for $630. Customers rave about how quiet it is without sacrificing cooking power. They also highlight how easy it is to install, so you can quickly build it into your home.
GE Profile™ 2.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Sensor Microwave
Another top option for your home is the GE over-the-range microwave. This appliance uses the latest technology to create an easy cooking experience without sacrificing style. You can see how GE maximizes the door and places all of the buttons on the bottom, making it look like a luxury microwave without costing you an extreme amount of money.
This microwave has 10 power levels for different cooking needs. Chef Connect allows you to adjust your settings easily to accommodate different types of food. There is also a four-speed, 400CFM venting system that traps smoke, steam, and odors from your stovetop. This way, when the meal is over, the smells of smoke and grease won’t linger in your home.
You can buy this appliance in stainless steel, black stainless steel, or slate color finishes. It can be yours for $560. Customers who have already purchased this microwave say it is exactly what they look for in an appliance. It complements other GE appliances and runs well throughout the week.
Frigidaire® 1.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Over The Range Microwave
Finally, you can’t look into over-the-range microwaves without considering this option. This microwave can store 1.8 cubic feet of cookware, which is ideal for reheating large dishes ahead of a family gathering. It’s almost impossible to ensure your main dishes and sides are all ready at the same time. With this microwave, you can heat up your food to make it seem like everything is ready at once.
There are additional features that make this microwave a favorite choice of customers. It has a Zero-Clearance Door built to open at a 90° angle and several one-touch cooking options that turn the appliance on with one button push. These features, along with clear buttons, allow you to work your microwave easily without having to mess with too many settings.
This model comes in white, black, stainless steel, and black stainless steel colors. You can buy it for $300 with options to have it delivered and installed in your home. Customer reviews highlight how quiet it is and how effective the microwave is at heating food.
FAQs
What is an over-the-range microwave?
An over-the-range microwave is built above the stovetop in smaller kitchens. A homeowner will have an oven, stove, ventilator, and microwave within one column because the ventilation hood is built underneath the microwave. This design style allows homeowners to enjoy ventilation above their stoves to capture smoke and steam for a better cooking experience.
Can you install an over-the-range microwave by yourself?
It is possible to install a built-in microwave by yourself. However, it does require some tools and technical knowledge. If you don’t feel comfortable installing appliances, consider hiring an expert or seeing if your appliance dealer offers installation services.
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
Locally owned and operated since 1988, East Coast Appliance is the largest independent appliance dealer in Virginia. We sell it ALL — from new name-brand appliances to scratch-and-dent appliances to our very own refurbished appliances. Aside from our huge selection of every major brand and everyday low prices, what sets us apart from our competitors is that we service what we sell and that we are locally owned and operated with factory-trained associates. And if you’re a local, great news: East Coast Appliance is committed to providing the absolute lowest prices on the same available brand and model — simply bring in the ad of the local retail competitor while the lower price is in effect and you'll receive your price match.
Shop Over-the-Range Microwaves at East Coast
There is a reason we are dubbed “The Discount King” — for unbeatable deals, shop over-the-range microwaves online at East Coast Appliance. Our friendly associates are always happy to help you learn how to remove the microwave over range and install your new one, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our showrooms to see why we are the best appliance store in Virginia. Visit us today.
Learn More: Best Microwave: 7 Microwaves that Provide Function in the Kitchen