Are you struggling to take away your over-the-stove microwave? You are not alone. This seemingly easy job could be surprisingly difficult, however it does not need to be. With the proper instruments and a step-by-step information, you may safely and effectively take away your microwave with none pointless trouble. Earlier than you start, collect all the required instruments, together with a screwdriver, a socket wrench, and a pair of pliers. After getting your instruments prepared, observe these detailed directions to take away your over-the-stove microwave like a professional.
Earlier than you begin, it is necessary to ensure the microwave is unplugged from the outlet. As soon as it is unplugged, you may start by eradicating the screws which are holding the microwave in place. There are usually two screws positioned on the prime of the microwave and two on the backside. As soon as the screws are eliminated, you may rigorously carry the microwave up and off the mounting bracket. If the microwave is heavy, you could have to ask somebody that can assist you carry it. As soon as the microwave is off the bracket, you may disconnect {the electrical} wires. There are usually two wires, a black wire and a white wire. To disconnect the wires, merely squeeze the connectors and pull them aside.
Now that the microwave is disconnected, you may take away it from the wall. To do that, you have to to take away the 2 screws which are holding the mounting bracket to the wall. As soon as the screws are eliminated, you may rigorously carry the mounting bracket off the wall. Watch out to not drop the bracket, because it may injury the wall. As soon as the mounting bracket is eliminated, you may discard it. Now, your over-the-stove microwave is efficiently eliminated. Now you can clear the world the place the microwave was mounted and set up a brand new one if desired.
Dismantle the Microwave Unit
Earlier than you start, be sure that the microwave is totally unplugged from the facility supply and that the facility has been turned off on the circuit breaker. Collect the required instruments, together with a Phillips-head screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver, and a socket wrench. After getting your instruments and have taken the required security precautions, observe these steps:
- Take away the mounting screws: Find the screws that safe the microwave to the cupboard above it. These screws are usually positioned on the highest and sides of the microwave. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to take away these screws.
- Disconnect the wiring: As soon as the mounting screws are eliminated, you have to to disconnect the wiring that connects the microwave to the facility supply. To do that, find the wire harness in the back of the microwave and use the flat-head screwdriver to launch the wire connectors. Watch out to not injury the wires or connectors.
- Take away the microwave from the cupboard: As soon as the wiring is disconnected, you may take away the microwave from the cupboard. To do that, rigorously carry the microwave up and out of the cupboard. You’ll want to assist the microwave with each arms to stop it from falling.
Deactivate Energy Supply
Security is paramount in relation to eradicating an over-the-stove microwave, and deactivating the facility supply is the primary essential step. There are a number of strategies to disconnect the facility, every various barely relying on the kind of setup you may have:
**1. Circuit Breaker Panel:**
| Steps |
|---|
| Find the circuit breaker panel in your house. |
| Determine the breaker that controls the microwave circuit. It’s going to normally be labeled “Microwave” or “Kitchen.” |
| Flip the breaker to the “OFF” place. |
**2. Fuse Field:**
| Steps |
|---|
| Find the fuse field, which is often in a basement, utility room, or storage. |
| Determine the fuse that controls the microwave circuit. This info could also be discovered on the fuse field cowl or in your house’s electrical system diagram. |
| Take away the fuse utilizing a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers. |
| Insert a brand new fuse of the identical amperage as a replacement. |
**3. Unplug the Energy Twine:**
| Steps |
|---|
| Find the microwave’s energy wire behind the equipment. |
| Fastidiously pull the plug out of {the electrical} outlet. |
Disconnect Electrical Cords
After getting eliminated the mounting screws, it is advisable to disconnect {the electrical} cords which are powering the microwave. To do that, merely unplug the facility wire from the outlet. If the microwave is hardwired, you have to to show off the circuit breaker or fuse that’s supplying energy to the microwave earlier than you may disconnect the wires.
Listed below are the steps on disconnect {the electrical} cords:
- Unplug the facility wire from the outlet.
- If the microwave is hardwired, flip off the circuit breaker or fuse that’s supplying energy to the microwave.
- Find the junction field the place {the electrical} wires are related to the microwave. The junction field is normally positioned on the again or facet of the microwave.
- Open the junction field and disconnect the wires from the microwave.
Here’s a desk of wire colours and their corresponding features:
| Wire Shade | Operate |
|---|---|
| Black | Sizzling |
| White | Impartial |
| Inexperienced or Naked Copper | Floor |
After getting disconnected {the electrical} cords, now you can take away the microwave from the wall.
Unplug Fuel Line
Okay, so we have got a gas-powered stovetop. There is a fuel line that goes on to the stovetop and the microwave that is mounted above it. We will want to show off that fuel line earlier than we take down the microwave, so this is how we do this:
1. Flip off the fuel provide.
Find the fuel valve close to the stovetop. Often, it’s a small deal with which you can flip both by hand or with a wrench. Flip the valve clockwise to cease the circulation of fuel.
2. Detach the fuel line from the microwave.
Observe the fuel line from the stovetop to the microwave. On the level the place the road connects to the microwave, there shall be a becoming which you can disconnect. This becoming could also be held in place by a nut or a clamp. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the becoming and take away it.
3. Cap the fuel line.
As soon as the fuel line is disconnected from the microwave, it is advisable to cap it off to stop fuel from leaking out. There are a couple of various kinds of caps that you should utilize, however the commonest is a rubber cap. Merely slide the cap over the top of the fuel line and safe it with a hose clamp.
4. Examine the fuel line for leaks.
Earlier than you flip the fuel provide again on, verify the fuel line for leaks. You are able to do this by making use of a soapy answer to the fuel line and fittings. If there are any leaks, the soapy answer will bubble up. For those who discover any leaks, tighten the fittings or substitute the fuel line as wanted.
As soon as you have inspected the fuel line and verified that there aren’t any leaks, you may flip the fuel provide again on. Now you are able to take away the microwave.
Take away Mounting Bracket
As soon as the microwave’s energy provide is protected, eradicating the microwave is straightforward. Find a small panel on the prime of the mount. That is the place the microwave’s assist brackets are hid. These assist brackets are what maintain your microwave in place. To take away the microwave, it is advisable to take these brackets off.
Verify in case you can entry these brackets along with your hand or in case you want a instrument to take action. For those who want a instrument, use a screwdriver or drill to take away the screws securing the brackets. Remember the fact that some screws could also be exhausting to take away attributable to rust or particles. For those who encounter any resistance, apply some lubricant to the screws. Moreover, guarantee you may have the proper dimension and kind of screwdriver or drill bit for the job.
As soon as all of the screws are eliminated, gently pull the microwave in the direction of you to detach it from the mounting bracket. Be cautious to not drop the microwave when doing this. For those who want a helper to assist the microwave whilst you disconnect the mount, ask for help. As soon as the microwave is indifferent from the bracket, set it apart in a protected location whilst you work on the remaining steps.
| Instruments You Might Want: |
|---|
| Screwdriver or drill |
| Lubricant (non-obligatory) |
Raise and Take away Microwave
1. Disconnect Energy
Earlier than dealing with the microwave, guarantee it is unplugged from {the electrical} outlet. Security first!
2. Take away Mounting Screws
Find the mounting screws on the prime of the microwave. Utilizing a screwdriver, rigorously take away them.
3. Raise Microwave
Grasp the microwave firmly on either side. Raise it straight up and off the mounting bracket.
4. Slide Ahead
As soon as the microwave is lifted, gently slide it ahead to detach it from the wall bracket.
5. Unplug Wires
Disconnect the facility wire and another wires related to the microwave. Be cautious and keep away from pulling on the wires.
6. Take away Mounting Bracket
Relying on the kind of microwave, there could also be a mounting bracket hooked up to the wall. Observe these steps:
| Microwave Kind | Bracket Elimination Steps |
|---|---|
|
Over-the-range |
– Take away screws securing the bracket to the wall. |
|
Constructed-in |
– Open the microwave door. |
Reconfigure Cupboard Area
Repurposing the cupboard area above your range after eradicating the microwave requires considerate planning. Take into account these choices:
1. Open Shelving
Take away cupboard doorways and set up open cabinets for straightforward entry to regularly used objects like spices, cookbooks, and cookware. This ethereal answer creates a extra spacious really feel.
2. Taller Higher Cupboards
Lengthen the peak of the higher cupboards above the range to maximise storage. You’ll be able to add doorways or cabinets to accommodate bigger objects or cumbersome home equipment.
3. Equipment Storage
Set up a cupboard door with a roll-up or slide-away function to hide small home equipment like toasters or blenders when not in use. This retains your countertop clutter-free.
4. Pull-Out Cabinets and Drawers
Make the most of pull-out cabinets and drawers to arrange and entry objects in deep cupboards. These options make it simpler to succeed in the again of the cupboard with out straining.
5. Lazy Susan
Set up a revolving Lazy Susan in nook cupboards to maximise accessibility. This lets you simply rotate objects and eradicate lifeless area.
6. Above-the-Door Storage
Mount cabinets or baskets above the higher cupboard doorways for storing objects that are not regularly used, equivalent to further serving dishes or seasonal décor.
7. Personalized Storage Options
Think about using customizable storage programs like adjustable cabinets or drawers that may be tailor-made to your particular wants. These options present a versatile and environment friendly approach to manage your area.
| Choice | Options |
|---|---|
| Open Shelving | Easy accessibility, ethereal really feel |
| Taller Higher Cupboards | Maximized storage, extra vertical area |
| Equipment Storage | Hid home equipment, clutter-free countertop |
| Pull-Out Cabinets and Drawers | Organized, accessible deep cupboard objects |
| Lazy Susan | Maximized nook cupboard accessibility |
| Above-the-Door Storage | Storage for occasionally used objects |
| Personalized Storage Options | Tailor-made storage for particular wants, flexibility |
Patch Holes and Clear Floor
As soon as the microwave is eliminated, you may have to take steps to restore any holes or injury it might have left behind.
Patching Holes
To patch holes within the drywall, you may want the next supplies:
| Materials | Use |
|---|---|
| Drywall restore package | Comprises all crucial instruments and supplies for patching holes |
| Putty knife | For smoothing and making use of patching materials |
| Sandpaper | For smoothing the patched space |
Observe these steps to patch the holes:
1. Clear the world across the gap with a humid material.
2. Apply drywall patching compound to the outlet utilizing a putty knife.
3. Easy the compound evenly and let it dry.
4. Sand the dried compound till it is flush with the encircling floor.
Cleansing Floor
As soon as the holes are patched, you may want to wash the floor the place the microwave was mounted. Use a humid material and a gentle cleansing answer to wipe down the floor and take away any mud or particles.
Take into account Skilled Help
In case you are uncomfortable or lack the required expertise, it’s strongly beneficial to hunt skilled help for eradicating an over-the-stove microwave. Certified technicians have the experience and instruments to securely disconnect and take away the equipment with out inflicting injury to your property or the microwave itself. Skilled help may also guarantee correct disposal of the outdated microwave, which can be required in some areas.
Whereas it’s potential to save cash by making an attempt to take away the microwave your self, the potential dangers and difficulties make it advisable to think about skilled help. A talented technician can full the duty effectively and successfully, supplying you with peace of thoughts and stopping any unexpected issues.
Here’s a desk summarizing the important thing elements to think about when making the choice:
| Choice | Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Help |
|
|
| DIY Elimination |
|
|
Observe Security Precautions
Earlier than starting the removing course of, observe these necessary security precautions:
- Disconnect the microwave from the facility supply by unplugging it.
- Flip off the electrical energy to the range on the circuit breaker or fuse field.
- Permit the microwave to chill utterly earlier than dealing with it.
- Put on gloves to guard your arms from sharp edges.
- Have a helper help you in eradicating the microwave.
Take away the Mounting Bracket
Find the mounting bracket holding the microwave to the wall or cupboard. Take away the screws securing the bracket to the microwave utilizing a screwdriver.
Disconnect the Energy and Fuel Traces
Find the facility wire and fuel line related to the microwave. Disconnect the facility wire by unplugging it. If the microwave is related to a fuel line, flip off the fuel provide and disconnect the fuel line utilizing a wrench.
Raise and Slide the Microwave
With the help of a helper, rigorously carry the microwave straight up. As soon as the microwave is evident of the mounting bracket, slowly slide it ahead off the range.
| Screw Kind | Device Required |
|---|---|
| Phillips Head | Phillips Head Screwdriver |
| Hex Head | Hex Key (Allen Wrench) |
Take away the Electrical Wires
Find {the electrical} wires related to the microwave. Use a screwdriver to take away the screws holding the wires in place. Gently pull on the wires to disconnect them.
Take away the Microwave
As soon as all of the connections have been disconnected, rigorously carry the microwave off the range and transport it to a protected location for disposal or restore.
The right way to Take away Over-the-Range Microwave
To make sure security throughout the removing course of, be sure the microwave is correctly unplugged and {the electrical} circuit is turned off.
Find the mounting bracket that holds the microwave in place. This bracket is often mounted to the underside of the kitchen cabinetry and the highest of the microwave.
Utilizing a screwdriver, unscrew the screws holding the mounting bracket to the cabinetry. Gently carry the microwave up and off the bracket.
Disconnect {the electrical} wiring harness from the microwave. Observe the placement and orientation of the wires for correct reinstallation later.
Fastidiously carry the microwave down from the cupboard and take it to a protected location for cleansing or disposal.
Individuals Additionally Ask
Can I take away my over-the-stove microwave myself?
Sure, it’s potential to take away an over-the-stove microwave your self with the right instruments and security precautions.
How a lot does it value to take away an over-the-stove microwave?
The associated fee to take away an over-the-stove microwave varies relying on the particular mannequin, location, and availability of an expert. Sometimes, it may well vary from $50 to $200.
Do I would like to rent an expert to take away my over-the-stove microwave?
Whereas it’s potential to take away an over-the-stove microwave your self, hiring a certified equipment restore skilled is beneficial for security and to keep away from potential injury to your kitchen or the equipment itself.
What security precautions ought to I take when eradicating an over-the-stove microwave?
All the time unplug the microwave and switch off {the electrical} circuit earlier than eradicating it. Use warning when lifting and transferring the microwave as it may be heavy. Put on gloves and eye safety to stop any accidents.
