Over-the-Range Microwaves, Mounted Safely
An over-the-range microwave is heavy, awkward, and hangs above a hot stove. Hawaiian Xpress installs them across Colorado Springs, including replacing an old microwave or swapping out a range hood for a microwave. We mount it to the wall and the cabinet above, connect the vent, and test the fan, lights, and cooking before we leave.
These microwaves are heavy and carry their weight on a wall plate and a few bolts through the cabinet. That plate has to hit solid framing, and the cabinet bolts have to be the right length. It's the part of the job that matters most, and the part that's easiest to get wrong.
What Every Install Includes
- Removal: We take down your old microwave or range hood and its mounting hardware, and haul it away.
- Wall plate: We mount the new plate level and into the wall framing, so it carries the weight.
- Mounting: We lift it onto the plate and bolt it through the cabinet above with the right-length hardware.
- Venting: We connect it to your existing duct, or set it to recirculate if there is no duct.
- Power and testing: We plug it into the outlet in the cabinet above, then test cooking, the fan, and the lights.
Vented Outside or Recirculating
An over-the-range microwave doubles as the range hood. If there's a duct above it, we set it up to vent outside, which clears smoke and steam best. If there isn't, we set it to recirculate through a charcoal filter. Most models ship ready for one or the other, so we adjust the blower before it goes up.
Microwave Installation FAQ
- Can you replace my range hood with an over-the-range microwave?
- Usually, yes. The microwave needs an outlet in the cabinet above it and enough height over the cooktop. Most models call for about 30 inches from the cooktop to the bottom of the cabinet. We check both before the install.
- Will my new microwave fit my old one's spot?
- Most over-the-range microwaves are 30 inches wide, but the mounting plates and bolt holes differ between brands. We install the new plate that comes with your microwave.
- Can you install a microwave I bought myself?
- Yes. Most of our installs are microwaves customers bought from a store or online. Keep the mounting plate, template, and bolts that came in the box.
- How long does it take?
- Replacing an over-the-range microwave in the same spot usually takes one to two hours.
Want a Hood Instead?
If you'd rather have stronger ventilation over your stove, see our range hood installation service. Replacing the range too? We handle gas range installation as well.