Love to Cook? Free Up Counter Space with A Microwave Wall Mount

Do you love to cook but find yourself cramped for counter space in your kitchen? Installing an over-the-range microwave using a wall-mounted bracket can help free up room to prep ingredients and plate dishes with ease.

By the end, you'll have newfound counter real estate and a safely secured, high-performing microwave.

Step 1: Select Your Microwave Model

When choosing an over-the-range microwave, first measure between your kitchen cabinets to determine the best size. Standard ovens are generally 30-inches wide. Leave at least 3 inches of clearance on either side for ventilation. Consider other features as well:

• Cooking power for your needs
• Size and number of interior racks
• Front button controls vs. touch panels
• Interior light for visibility
• Venting systems: ducts vs. filters

Once you select a model, ensure a compatible mounting bracket is available, either included or sold separately. Brackets are often custom to the brand and dimensions. An appropriately weighted bracket will securely hold the microwave in place.

Microwave Mounting Considerations

Step 2: Gather the Right Mounting Supplies

A wall-mounted over-the-range microwave bracket kit contains panels, supports, bolts, and hardware to mount your appliance. Most also include:

• Toggle bolts for drywall attachments
• Wood and/or machine screws
• Washers to prevent pulling through drywall

You may also need separate ducting, filters, or conversion kits for ventilation. Determine if your chosen microwave recirculates air or requires external venting before purchasing.

Reinforcement Options

For extra stability, consider adding:

• Toggle bolt grabbers - attach to the framing studs within the wall for enhanced strength
• Hollow wall anchors - prevent toggles from detatching from drywall
• Extra long wood screws - secure mounting bracket through to wall studs

Step 3: Install & Level the Wall Mounting Bracket

When installing your over-the-range microwave mounting bracket , properly locating wall studs is key. Use a stud finder to pinpoint framing, marking locations with painter's tape. Try to align as many bracket holes as possible over the studs for maximum support.

Use a spirit level on both horizontally and vertically to ensure the bracket positioning is perfectly plumb and level. Mark holes, drill pilot holes first, then insert bolt anchors or screws. Tighten down the full bracket securely before moving onto the next steps.

Why Leveling Matters

A tilted microwave is more than an eyesore - it poses safety risks including:

• Food or liquids spilling out the door
• Overheating due to uneven airflow
• Microwave detachment causing injury

Take the time to properly level brackets to prevent these hazards.

Step 4: Create Openings for Wiring & Ventilation

Your new microwave will require access behind the wall for both electrical and ventilation connections. Refer to your appliance manual for the exact locations and sizes needed. In general:

• A 3-to-4 inch hole is required for round vent ductwork. Rectangular ducts need a wider opening.
• A 1-1/2 to 2 inch hole will accommodate the power cord.

Use a drywall saw to cut holes leading outside for ducting. Drill holes for electrical using a hole saw bit. Take precautions not to contact existing wiring or pipes when cutting openings.

Professional Help Options

If you're uncomfortable making these wall modifications yourself, consider hiring:

• Electrician: to run new wires and outlets
• Handyman: to cut openings and ductwork
• HVAC technician: to integrate ventilation

Step 5: Lift & Hang the Microwave

If possible, get assistance and use proper lifting techniques when positioning the microwave for installation. Generally:

• Keep back straight, bend knees to lift
• Hold weight close to body
• Avoid twisting movements

Microwaves can weight 90 lbs or more. Don't risk injury - get help maneuvering it over the stove. Once raised, align the back bracket mounting holes and hang on support hooks. Add reinforcement with provided bolts until snug. Protect cords from being pinched.

Tip: Prep Electrical First

To make wiring easier, connect the power cord, test for power, and confirm cooking functions before permanently mounting the appliance.

Step 6: Complete the Ventilation System

Proper ventilation carries away smoke, steam, and odors created when cooking in your microwave. Connect ductwork attachments at the mounting board access hole per installation guide specifications. Securely fasten all joints with sheet metal screws to prevent air leaks.

Adjust and close internal dampers once aligned. Switch on kitchen and bathroom fans nearby to create pressure gradients. Stand at the microwave and feel for airflow leaving the oven vent.

Alternatives to External Ducting

If venting microwave exhaust outside is complex, filtering is an option:

• Charcoal filters trap odors for recirculation
• Demand-control modes automatically turn fan on when needed

Step 7: Finish Installation Details

Complete final installation steps carefully according to manufacturer instructions. Check that:

• All trim pieces and panels are snapped into place
• Mounting bolts are fully tightened
• Interior light turns on when door is open
• Anti-tip brace securely prevents tilting

Run an initial test cook, heating a microwave-safe cup of water. Verify smooth operation and ease of access.

First Use Cautions

• Ensure turntable is properly installed
• Never run while empty to prevent damage
• Use microwave-rated cookware only

Using Your New Over-the-Range Microwave

It's recommended to break in your new appliance gently by:

• Starting with 30% power level
• Gradually building up to full capacity
• Running for short durations initially

Be diligent in cleaning filters, replacing charcoal inserts, and wiping down exterior surfaces. This prevents grease build-up and optimizes ventilation efficiency.

If you encounter any error messages during cooking, consult the troubleshooting section of microwave manual before attempting repairs. Train all household members on proper safety precautions as well.

Completing this wall-mounted over-the-range microwave installation unlocks new potential for your kitchen. Have fun preparing elaborate dishes with room to spare on counters and tables previously cluttered with appliances.

A few ideas for putting the reclaimed area to good use:

• Rolling butcher block island
• Spice garden rack
• Bar setup for entertaining

We hope this guide gave you the confidence take on this project yourself. Now you can cook to your heart's content with a handy microwave freeing up precious real estate!