Instantly Mount Your Microwave Under The Cabinet in 3 Simple Steps
If your kitchen is tight on counter space, mounting your microwave under a cabinet can be a game changer. This simple project frees up room for meal prep and gives you easy access to your microwave without taking up precious real estate on your counters.
Mounting under a cabinet may seem intimidating, but it can actually be done in just 3 straightforward steps. With some basic DIY skills and the right tools, you can install your microwave in under an hour. No need to call in the handyman for this quick fix!
Step 1 - Locate the Wall Studs
Before you can install the mounting plate that will hold your microwave, you need to find the wood studs in your wall to secure it to. Locating the studs properly is an important first step - if you just screw into the drywall, your microwave won't be safely supported.
Start by getting yourself a stud finder. This handy device uses sensors to detect denser areas behind the wall where studs are likely located. Slowly slide the stud finder across the wall where you'll be installing the microwave. When it beeps and lights up, you've found a stud.
You can also locate studs the old fashioned way - by knocking! Take your knuckles and gently tap along the wall listening for a change in sound. Solid knocking means you've likely hit a stud. Hollow sounding tapping probably means there's just drywall.
Look for additional clues like nails or screws that may indicate where previous installations located the studs. Trust us, the studs are there hiding behind your drywall.
Mark the Stud Locations
Once you've located the studs, take a pencil and mark the center of each one along the wall. Most studs are spaced 16 inches apart. Measure and mark to be sure you know exactly where they are.
Knowing the exact stud location is key for installing the mounting plate securely. So take your time finding and marking them.
Step 2 - Install the Mounting Plate
Now that you know where the studs are, you can install the mounting plate that your microwave will hook onto. Most microwaves come with the mounting plate, brackets and screws you'll need for under cabinet installation.
Determine the Ideal Position
Consider where you want to mount your microwave under the cabinet. The ideal height is generally 18-30 inches above the counter or stovetop. This keeps your microwave easily reachable without having to bend down too far under the cabinet.
Also be sure to account for the size of your microwave and allow at least 3 inches of clearance under the cabinet for proper ventilation. Measure to find the perfect mounting height before installing the plate.
You'll also want to make sure there is an electrical outlet nearby that the microwave can plug into. Having to run an extension cord down to reach an outlet looks sloppy.
Attach the Plate to the Studs
With your mounting location identified, now you can screw the plate into the studs. Line up the plate so the provided screw holes match where your stud center markings are.
Use a power drill to drill small pilot holes into the studs first. Then use lag screws and a screwdriver to securely screw the plate into the wall studs. Make sure the plate is completely level before tightening everything down.
It's extremely important that the mounting plate is installed securely, so don't skimp on the lag screws. Tightening those bad boys into your wall studs will support the weight of your microwave for years to come.
Step 3 - Hang the Microwave
You're so close now! The last step is to get your microwave hung up on the mounting plate. This is the fun, gratifying part where you'll get to enjoy all that new free counter space.
Prepare the Electrical
On the back of your microwave, locate the power cord and outlet. Feed the cord through the hole in your mounting plate so that it can be plugged in once you hang the microwave.
Make sure you are plugging into a properly grounded outlet. Do not remove or bend the prongs on the microwave plug. Your microwave needs that grounded connection to function safely.
Mount the Microwave
Now comes the moment you've been waiting for. Grab a friend and carefully lift up the microwave into place so that the tabs on the back line up on the mounting plate. Slide the microwave down onto the support tabs.
Installation kits often come with side brackets that screw into the wall for extra stabilization. Install these on each side if needed. Some microwaves also have screws on the top that screw upward into the cabinet for reinforced mounting.
Once your microwave is hung, plug it in and test it out! Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done. You just saved yourself a chunk of change by mounting your microwave yourself.
By taking the initiative to mount your microwave under your cabinet, you've not only freed up space in your kitchen, but gained some DIY confidence too. Following these simple steps of finding studs, installing the mounting plate, and hanging the microwave is all it takes to increase convenience in your cooking space.
Just think of all you can now do with that extra counter area that used to be taken up by your microwave. Meal prepping will be easier, your kitchen will look cleaner, and everything you need will be at your fingertips. Anytime you need a quick reheat, just open the cabinet door rather than having to reach across the kitchen.
Under cabinet microwave mounting may take a bit of effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Your kitchen is one of the most used spaces in your home, so maximize it's potential. Go ahead and get started on this easy upgrade. Your inner chef will thank you!
When beginning this project, it's important to consider the weight capacity of the cabinet you'll be mounting the microwave under. Consult specifications to ensure the cabinet can support the weight. Using a mounting kit designed specifically for under-cabinet installation can make the process easier with all necessary hardware included. And be sure to check where the microwave's exhaust vent is located so that air can properly circulate once mounted under the cabinet.
You'll get to enjoy the counter space and convenience with studs marked, mounting plate securely installed and microwave hung on the tabs. No need to fret about the installation process - just follow these 3 simple steps and your under-cabinet microwave mount will be complete in no time. Who couldn't use some more room to cook their favorite meals? Get ready to be amazed at the transformation in your kitchen!