Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Some tools may require batteries. Check the manufacturer’s packing list to see if they’re included.

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Overview of Replacing an Over-the-Range Microwave

Follow the installation instructions for your microwave as well as safety instructions for your tools.
Make sure you have a dedicated circuit that meets the microwave specifications.
Measure the space and existing microwave to ensure a good fit.
With a helper, remove the existing microwave and hardware.
Ensure there’s no wiring, duct work or gas or water lines inside the wall that could be damaged during installation.
Install mounting hardware with at least one fastener in a stud and use toggle bolts if studs aren’t available for the remaining fasteners.
Configure the new microwave for exterior or interior exhaust as necessary.
With a helper, install the new over-the-range microwave, remove protective material and test it.
This article contains safety tips and callouts. Please read the entire article before beginning this project.

Prepare for Microwave Installation

Before installing an over-the-range microwave, take some careful measurements.

Shop Over-the-Range Microwaves Shop Cabinet Hardware Shop Kitchen Organization

Measure the distance from the top of the range to the cabinet above. Local codes and the manufacturer’s directions will indicate how far above the range top the OTR microwave oven needs to be.

The typical recommendation is to have 30 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the cabinet and at least 13-1/2 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the microwave.

Tip

If you have a gas range, check that the new over-the-range microwave is compatible.

Remove the Old Microwave

Have someone help you remove the old microwave and install the new one.

Caution

The new microwave must be on a dedicated circuit that meets the appliance manufacturer’s specifications.

Install the New Mounting Bracket

The general steps for installing an OTR microwave oven are below. Follow the specific installation instructions for your microwave.

In the cabinet opening, use a stud finder to mark the studs if they aren’t already marked. See How to Find Wall Studs if you need help. Mark the center of the opening at the top and bottom. Use a level to extend a stud mark and the bottom center mark below the opening. These lines will help you align the wall template in the next step and locate the stud once you place the template.

Caution

Before you begin drilling into the wall, watch our video What’s Inside My Wall? to get an idea of what might be in the wall cavity.

Over-the-range microwave installation instructions include templates to help position the mounting brackets. Start with the wall template. Line it up on the center line on the wall and tape it in place. Check that the template is level. Mark the screw holes. Use the mark of your stud location to mark a screw hole over the stud.

Tip

Apply painters tape on the back of the templates to make them easy to position and adjust.

Install the mounting bracket on the wall, using a level line drawn on the wall and the marks you made at the hole locations to align it properly. Use toggle bolts in the holes that aren’t in line with a stud.

To install toggle bolts, thread the bolts through the bracket and then twist on the toggles. Push the toggles through the holes in the wall. Once they’re inside the wall cavity, they’ll open. Tighten the toggle bolts by pulling back on the bracket so the toggles can grab the back of the drywall. Your paint multi-tool or putty knife will help with pulling back on the bracket. Drive at least one lag bolt into a stud at the appropriate hole.

Install the New Over-the-Range Microwave

Before you proceed, align the microwave fan to match your exhaust duct, which will run through the wall or the upper cabinet. If you don’t have an exhaust duct and your microwave has a charcoal filter, you can rotate the fan to vent at the front of the appliance.

Upgrade Your Kitchen With a New Over-the-Range Microwave

Make cooking more convenient when you update your over-the-range microwave. Measure your space and shop Lowes.com to find a compatible OTR microwave with the features you need to make meals easy. Or visit your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate. They’ll show you appliances from top brands and help you find the best microwave for your kitchen. They can even help you arrange installation on select models.

FAQ on Installing an Over-the-Range Microwave

Use the answers to these OTR microwave installation questions to plan your project.

Can You Install an Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Yourself?

Installing a plug-in over-the-range microwave can be a DIY project if:

You’re replacing an existing OTR microwave.
You don’t need to install an external exhaust system or modify the cabinets.
You have a grounded outlet and a dedicated circuit that meets the microwave specifications.
The new microwave fits the space with the clearances required by code and the manufacturer.

Follow the instructions for your model. Microwaves are heavy, so make sure you have a helper. If it’s necessary to install ductwork or an electrical circuit or you’re not comfortable doing the work, let Lowe’s install your over-the-range microwave.

Does an Over-the-Range Microwave Need to Be Vented Outside?

Not all over-the-range microwaves need to vent or exhaust to the outside. You can often configure an OTR microwave to recirculate exhaust into the kitchen through a charcoal filter (which might be a separate purchase) or vent exhaust to the outside through the home roof or exterior wall. Venting through a roof or wall requires ductwork.

Do All Over-the-Range Microwaves Use the Same Mounting Bracket?

No, an over-the-range microwave should include a mounting bracket specific to the model, as well as a template to help you install the bracket correctly. If you’re replacing a microwave from the same brand, the bracket might be compatible, but it’s best to use the bracket that comes with your microwave.

Are All Over-the-Range Microwaves 30 Inches Wide?

Most over-the-range microwaves are designed to fit a standard 30-inch-wide space above a range and under an upper cabinet. However, you can find microwaves designed for smaller spaces. Always measure the space above your range and make sure the microwave you choose is designed for your space.

Are Over-the-Range Microwaves Interchangeable?

No, in addition to over-the-range microwaves being available in different sizes, they have installation steps that vary by manufacturer and model. Mounting brackets, exhaust configurations and how you secure the microwave to the cabinet above can all be different.

Can I Replace My Microwave With a Different Brand?

You should be able to replace an existing over-the-range microwave with a different brand, if the new microwave has a compatible exhaust configuration, compatible power requirements and fits the space with the clearances specified by the manufacturer and local codes. Keep in mind, as with many replacement OTR microwaves, you’ll need to replace the mounting bracket and redrill some of the mounting holes in the overhead cabinet. Check the microwave specifications before you buy to make sure the appliance is compatible with your space.

How to Replace an Over-the-Range Microwave