My Quest to Mount an Over the Range Microwave Without a Cabinet
When I moved into my new apartment, I was thrilled to have a spacious kitchen that was equipped with all the necessary appliances, except for one crucial item – an over the range microwave. I quickly realized that there was no cabinet above the stove where I could easily mount the microwave. Undeterred by this setback, I embarked on a mission to mount an over the range microwave without a cabinet.
Gather the Tools
Before I could begin the installation process, I needed to gather the necessary tools. Here’s a list of what I needed:
Locate the Studs
Using the stud finder, I carefully scanned the wall above the stovetop to locate the studs. It’s important to find the studs because they provide the necessary support for the weight of the microwave. Once I found the studs, I made a mental note of their locations.
Measure and Mark
Next, I used the measuring tape to determine the precise height at which I wanted to mount the microwave. I took into consideration the distance from the stovetop and the available space above. Using a pencil, I marked the desired location on the wall.
Install the Mounting Bracket
With the help of the drill, I installed the mounting bracket onto the wall by screwing it into the studs. This step requires careful attention to ensure that the bracket is perfectly level. I used a level to double-check my work before tightening the screws.
Attach the Microwave
Now that the bracket was securely installed, it was time to attach the microwave to it. I carefully followed the instructions provided with the mounting bracket kit to properly position and secure the microwave onto the bracket. This step involved aligning the microwave’s mounting plate with the bracket and using the screws provided to fasten it in place.
Check for Stability
Once the microwave was attached to the bracket, I made sure to test its stability. I gently pushed and pulled the microwave to ensure it was securely mounted and didn’t wobble. It’s important to ensure that the microwave is firmly in place to prevent any accidents or damage.
Use a Support Bracket (if necessary)
In some cases, mounting an over the range microwave without a cabinet may require using a support bracket. This additional bracket provides extra support if the microwave is particularly heavy or if there is limited space between the microwave and the ceiling. If needed, I would have installed a support bracket according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Enjoy the Convenience of an Over the Range Microwave
With the over the range microwave successfully mounted without a cabinet, I can now enjoy the convenience it brings to my kitchen. Cooking and reheating meals has become much more efficient, and I no longer need to sacrifice valuable counter space for a standalone microwave. The step-by-step process I followed allowed me to overcome the challenge of mounting the microwave in a non-traditional way.
Conclusion
Mounting an over the range microwave without a cabinet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and careful execution, it can be accomplished successfully. By locating the studs, measuring and marking the desired location, installing the mounting bracket, attaching the microwave, and checking for stability, you can mount an over the range microwave without a cabinet and enjoy the convenience it brings to your kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try, and say goodbye to countertop clutter and hello to efficient cooking!