Home Garden

How to Remove an Old Over-Stove Microwave Oven

When it comes time for kitchen remodeling, among the first things to go are usually the appliances. Although it may look intimidating, that old over-stove microwave oven can be removed fairly simply. These ovens are held in place over the stove with bolts attaching them to the cabinet above. They may also feature ducting that carries away smoke and odors from the stove below. Have an assistant help you to remove an old over-stove microwave oven, as some of these units can be heavy.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Utility knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open up the old over-stove microwave oven. Remove anything inside, such as glass carousels, temperature probes or other equipment.

    • 2

      Open up the cabinet above the microwave oven. Remove anything stored in the cabinet.

    • 3

      Unplug the microwave oven from the socket.

    • 4

      Remove the vent running from the top of the microwave through the cabinet. This may be held in place with a series of clamps or tape. Loosen the clamps with a screwdriver or cut away the tape with the utility knife before removing the vent pipes.

    • 5

      Have an assistant support the microwave. Loosen the screws in the bottom of the cabinet holding the microwave in place.

    • 6

      Look on the sides of the microwave for any trim panels and remove these, if present. Some microwaves use these to cover up the support brackets along the sides. Slowly tilt the front of the microwave down. Support the oven at the back and slowly pull it away from the wall. Unclip the microwave from any support brackets, if needed, as you lower it.

    • 7

      Remove the mounting plate from the back wall.