To mount an over-the-range microwave oven under an island cabinet, you must purchase a cabinet-mounting kit. A cabinet-mounting kit is designed specifically for installation on the bottom of the cabinet and attaches to the top of the microwave.
You can install an over-the-range microwave above a wall oven. However, it depends on the manufacturer. Before you jump into the installation, consult the manufacturer's instructions. Over-the-range microwaves are not the same as built-in microwaves, so it's important to double check the owner's manual.
Do not install within a closed cabinet or a cut-out space where the bottom is covered. These can be installed under a cabinet, even if there is not a cooking surface underneath the appliance. However, the height clearances outlined in the Installation Instructions must still be met.
While over-the-range microwaves have been stylish for years, the trend is on the way out in 2018.
So as a general rule, you should be OK with mounting a microwave oven (or almost anything else) above a conventional wall oven.
Home Depot microwave installation cost
Over-the-range microwave installation from Home Depot costs $100 for replacements. Replacing an old range hood with an over-the-range microwave costs $400. Hauling away and disposing of the old microwave costs $25. Delivery costs $60* or is free with purchases over $400.
$125 – $500 Installed
The labor cost to install a microwave above the stove is $125 to $500 plus the cost of the microwave oven. When the cost of the microwave unit is added, the total project cost ranges from $300 to $1,100. Custom cabinet work, adding an outlet and replacing the vent hood are extra costs.
All mounting kits are not the same. They are specifically designed by the manufacturer for the model. Mounting kits are provided when you purchase the above range microwave or you can purchase one separately. The kits must vary in their configuration to properly accommodate hanging the microwave securely.
Countertop Models: 3" of clearance on both sides and the top. 1" clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3" or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping.
Pro: Over-the-Range Placement Keeps All Your Cooking in One Zone. The ideal kitchen layout has cooking appliances, the fridge, and the sink in a triangular formation. If your microwave is not above the stove, you may lose some of that highly sought-after triangle shape.
Over-the-stove microwave ovens are mounted onto the wall above your stovetop. They are favored because they get the microwave off the countertop or island, giving you more counter space to work with and reducing the appearance of clutter in the kitchen.
All over-the-range microwaves can be vented to the outside using an equivalent total of 140 feet of rigid 3 1/4" x 10" rectangular or rigid 6" round ducting.
Each microwave comes with the mounting hardware (mounting bracket, screws, exhaust adapter), top and rear templates, and installation instructions needed to complete the installation process.
Microwave sizes are fairly standardized with most over-the-range microwaves measuring around 30" wide, 17" high and 15" to 18" deep with the door closed. Built-in microwave sizes also tend to match standard cabinet dimensions.
You can mount a microwave oven, even if it has a counter-top design. Moving a counter-top microwave oven to a mount in your kitchen frees counter space, giving you more room for kitchen work.
Plan to spend about two hours to hang the microwave from the wall and cabinet, but it might take longer if venting and wiring is required. Before you begin, move the range if it's in the way, and install a microwave cabinet.
Microwave ovens often demand dedicated circuitry, but this isn't always a necessity. The National Electrical Code requires it for all fixed equipment, so a circuit must be set aside for any built-in oven. Small or older countertop models draw less power than modern full-size units.
Can you replace a microwave with a range hood? Yes! Many people replace their over the range microwave with a ducted or ductless range hood. Range hoods are the much more flexible and versatile option when it comes to ventilating your cook space, compared to microwave hoods.