My Journey to Changing Out a Microwave Over Stove
I remember the day when I decided it was finally time to upgrade my kitchen appliances. My old microwave over stove had served me well for years, but it was showing signs of wear and tear. The buttons were sticky, the door didn’t close properly, and it seemed to take longer and longer for my food to heat up. It was time for a change.
The Search for the Perfect Replacement
I began my adventure by searching for the perfect replacement microwave over the stove. I wanted something sleek and modern that would complement my kitchen’s aesthetic. After browsing through countless online reviews and visiting several appliance stores, I finally found the one.
Gathering the Tools
Once the new microwave over the stove arrived, I knew it was time to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I gathered all the necessary tools for the installation:
I made sure to double-check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure I had everything I needed.
Preparation is Key
Before I could begin the installation process, I had to make some preparations. First, I turned off the power to the old microwave by flipping the corresponding breaker switch in my electrical panel. Safety always comes first!
Next, I carefully removed the old microwave from its mount. This required unscrewing the bolts and disconnecting the power cord. I made sure to have someone assist me because the old microwave was heavy and I didn’t want to risk dropping it.
Measure Twice, Drill Once
With the old microwave removed, it was time to install the new one. I measured the height and width of the space above my stove to ensure the new microwave would fit perfectly. I also used a level to make sure it would be properly aligned.
Using the pencil, I marked the spots where the mounting brackets needed to be installed. I then drilled pilot holes at these marks to make it easier to screw in the brackets later. It’s always a good idea to double-check your measurements and markings before drilling any holes, to avoid any unwanted surprises!
Mounting the New Microwave
With the new microwave over stove, and the mounting brackets securely in place, it was time to tackle the next step. I enlisted the help of my friend to lift the microwave onto the brackets while I held it steady.
Once the microwave was in position, we screwed it into place using the provided screws. It’s important to make sure the microwave is level at this stage, as an uneven installation can cause issues down the road. I used the level to check that everything was aligned perfectly.
Electrical Connections
Now that the microwave was securely mounted, it was time to make the necessary electrical connections. I followed the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure everything was done correctly and safely.
I connected the power cord to the dedicated outlet above the stove, making sure to use electrical tape to secure the connections. It’s important to double-check that all electrical connections are secure before turning the power back on.
Finalizing the Installation
With the electrical connections in place, all that was left to do was to give the microwave a final test. I filled a microwave-safe bowl with water and set it to heat for a minute. As soon as I heard that familiar hum, and saw the steam rising from the water, I knew I had successfully changed out my microwave over stove.
I stood back and admired my handy work. The new microwave looked incredible in my kitchen, and I was proud to have completed the installation myself. Not only had I saved money on professional installation, but I also gained a sense of satisfaction from successfully taking on this DIY project.
Conclusion
Changing out a microwave over stove may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, preparation, and careful execution, it is definitely achievable. Taking on this project allowed me to not only upgrade my kitchen appliances but also gain some valuable DIY skills. So, don’t be afraid to take the plunge and give it a try!