Over-stove Microwave Oven Installation

Two-Person Job

• Before installing an over-stove microwave, ask a friend or family member for assistance. Microwaves range from 34 to 70 pounds and, when installed under cabinetry and over a cooktop, at least one person is necessary to hold the microwave in place while the other secures it to the wall or underneath the cabinet.

Proper Safety

• PPE, or personal protection equipment, is necessary for all parties working on installation. Gloves and long sleeves help prevent cuts and scrapes. If drilling is required, protective glasses prevent eye damage. Laying a tarp down over the stove top will ensure that sawdust does not find its way into the range burners. This can prevent serious damage to the stovetop and even flare-ups from gas burners.

Tools and Hardware

• The tools necessary for installation of an over-the-oven microwave vary according to the type of brackets and hardware used during installation. Hardware includes screws, anchors, toggle bolts, washers, plates and even hooks for hanging loose portions of the microwave’s power cord. Tools include marking pencils, tape measure or ruler, hammers, levels, screwdrivers and drills.

Ventilation

• Over-the-stove microwaves feature an area for ventilation. This area helps ensure the microwave doesn’t overheat during operation. Leave enough space during installation for the microwave to vent properly. Also, ensure the space between the bottom of the cabinet and the top of the range is at least 30 inches. This will ensure the stove top doesn’t damage the microwave while activated.

Power

• A nearby power source is necessary for the microwave after installation. During installation, ensure the power outlet is easily accessible and that the microwave power cord does not hang loose or nearby the stove top. Use hooks to guide the path of the power cord until it reaches the outlet.

Brackets

• For hanging units, two different types of brackets are used: those that sit toward the rear of the microwave and those that sit at the top. These brackets require strong support from the wall because they will hold an appliance that changes in weight as the user adds or subtracts food. Fasten wall brackets to studs and other load-bearing devices and ensure under-the-cabinet brackets are sufficiently anchored in place.