How to Mount a Microwave Above a Range

Switch off the electricity to the existing range hood by turning off the appropriate circuit at the main electrical circuit box. Verify that the hood has no power by trying to turn on the light and fan.

Remove the mounting screws under the range hood with a screwdriver. These screws usually mount into the wall directly behind the hood and up into the cabinet above it. Have an assistant help hold the hood in place while removing the screws so it doesn't fall.

Disconnect the clips holding the vent tubing to the hood. Locate the wires connecting to the hood and unscrew the plastic wire nuts holding the house and hood wires together. Dispose of the wire nuts and set the hood unit aside.

Measure down 15 inches from the bottom of the cabinet located above the range and make a mark on the wall at that point. Use a level to draw a straight horizontal line on the wall at that mark. Measure the width of the cabinet and draw a straight line down using the level until it intersects with the horizontal line. This shows the exact center point of that section of wall.

Run a stud sensor across the wall and note the location of all wall studs along the horizontal line with a special mark a few inches above the center line. Align the microwave's mounting plate over the horizontal line on the wall, and position the center mounting hole at the exact center point. Make pencil marks at the location of all holes and then remove the plate.

Drill pilot holes at all hole marks. Insert toggle bolts into the holes for any holes that don't align with a wall stud. Place the plate over the wall and tighten it securely.

Place the supplied mounting template under the cabinet and mark the location of the mounting holes for the microwave. Drill pilot holes for the bolts at the locations marked.

Lift the microwave into place under the cabinet with the help of an assistant. Rest the back of the microwave on the lip of the mounting plate. Clip the vent tubing to the unit's vent blower and verify that the toggle switch is set to blow out, not to circulate only.

Connect the microwave wires to the house electrical wires using new wire nuts. For extra security, wrap the connected wires and wire nuts with electrical tape to ensure there is no later short circuit.

Level the microwave under the cabinet and position it for the bolts. Slip the two front corner bolts down through the cabinet and into the microwave-mounting holes. It may take a few minutes to locate the holes, but once found, tighten them down securely. Check the microwave for secure mounting, and when satisfied, insert and tighten the remaining bolts.

Switch the power back on at the circuit box and test the microwave to see if it has power. Program the microwave clock or any other settings following the manufacturer's instructions.