I love cooking and baking, and my built-in microwave has been my trusty companion in the kitchen for years. However, recently it started acting up and I knew it was time to replace it. Now, I am not particularly handy when it comes to fixing things around the house, but I decided to take matters into my own hands and try to change my built-in microwave myself. To my surprise, it was easier than I thought. If you’re in a similar situation and need to change your built-in microwave, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Step 1:
The first step in changing your built-in microwave is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:
Prepare the Microwave Opening
Step 2:
Once you have all the tools and materials ready, the next step is to prepare the microwave opening in your kitchen. Start by turning off the power to the microwave at the circuit breaker.
Step 3:
Carefully remove the old microwave by unscrewing it from the cabinets or removing any mounting brackets. If your microwave is heavy, you may want to use a dolly or hand truck to assist you in removing it safely.
Measure and Level the Space
Step 4:
Now that you have removed the old microwave, it’s time to measure and level the space. Use a tape measure to measure the height, width, and depth of the opening. Make sure to note these measurements down as you will need them when purchasing the new microwave.
Step 5:
Take the level and place it inside the opening to ensure that it is level. If it’s not, use shims to adjust the levelness. This step is crucial because if the opening is not level, it may affect the performance of the new microwave.
Install the New Microwave
Step 6:
Now comes the exciting part – installing the new microwave. Begin by unpacking the new microwave and removing any packaging materials or protective films.
Step 7:
Hold the microwave in front of the opening and carefully slide it into place. Ensure that the microwave is level and centered in the opening.
Step 8:
Using the pencil or marker, mark the mounting holes or brackets on the cabinets or wall. This step will come in handy when you need to attach the new microwave securely.
Step 9:
Remove the microwave from the opening and drill pilot holes in the marked spots. These holes will make it easier to screw in the mounting brackets or screws.
Step 10:
Next, attach the mounting brackets or screws to the marked spots, following the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific microwave model. Make sure they are secure and can hold the weight of the microwave.
Step 11:
Finally, slide the microwave back into the opening and align it with the mounting brackets or screws. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws or brackets, ensuring that the microwave is securely in place.
Test and Enjoy Your New Microwave
Step 12:
Now that the new microwave is installed, it’s time to test it out. Turn on the power at the circuit breaker and try using the microwave. Make sure all the features and functions are working correctly.
Step 13:
Once you have confirmed that the new microwave is working correctly, take a moment to admire your handiwork. You successfully changed your built-in microwave!
In conclusion, changing your built-in microwave doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, materials, and a step-by-step guide like this one, you can easily replace your old microwave with a new one. Remember to take your time, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and always put safety first. Soon enough, you’ll be back in the kitchen, enjoying the convenience and ease of your brand-new built-in microwave.