How to Install an Over the Range Microwave That Sticks Out Past Cabinets

Place the microwave template on the bottom of the cabinets. Center the template to the cabinet and ensure a good fit. The cabinet should leave enough headroom to work under, as well as contain a width suitable for the microwave to be mounted.

Drill up through designated locations on the template. The locations to drill specify exactly where to drive bolts through the cabinet.

Cut the outlined area on the template from the bottom side of the cabinet for the electrical plug. Locate the electric plug on the microwave and cut a 2x2-inch opening directly above its location.

Place the microwave wall template on the wall below the cabinet where the microwave is attached. The top edge of the template should rest on the bottom edge of the cabinet. Drill into specified locations along the wall template and remove the template.

Scan the wall to determine if any drilled spots fall on a stud. Place a heavy-duty drywall anchor into any drilled location that does not fall on a stud.

Attach the microwave base to the wall by lining up the drilled areas on the wall with the location to apply a bolt to each.

Hold the microwave up into place. You will probably need a companion to help with this step, as the microwave will be somewhat heavy. Pull the plug wire up through the hole. Do not plug in the cord until the microwave is fully mounted. Ensure the exhaust fan is facing outward.

Hook the microwave to the base. There are several metal fingers that pop out. Place the microwave directly on top of the metal fingers, and carefully drop it in place.

Drill in one bolt at each location along the top of the microwave. Drill each bolt down the entire way into the microwave, lifting up on the microwave from the bottom side.