How to Replace a Built-In Microwave in 5 Steps

Built-in microwaves are common in apartments and small homes as an alternative to countertop microwaves. If your microwave is built into the cabinetry, replacing it is a little more tricky but still completely doable for a DIYer. Our guide walks you through five simple steps to complete this job, saving you the cost of calling in a professional technician. Let’s get started!

Before You Begin

Before you begin, ensure you know all the steps you’ll need to undertake before replacing your microwave. Measure the cabinet your microwave fits into and make notes to ensure your new microwave will fit properly. Check any electrical requirements, and make sure you are confident in doing this job yourself. If at any point you feel out of your depth, you can always call in a professional!

Gather all the tools you will need before you start—you don’t want to be running off to look for a screwdriver at a critical point! These tools will vary depending on how your microwave is attached to the cabinetry, so make sure you carefully inspect it. You will usually need a tape measure, a level, and a screwdriver, as well as a sturdy step stool to reach the microwave if it is above head height. 

Safety Considerations

Safety should be your number one consideration when performing any DIY. Replacing a microwave tends to be a relatively safe procedure, but it still comes with risks. Make sure you turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker before you begin to avoid any risk of an electric shock.

Aside from electrical risks, replacing a built-in microwave comes with the risk of injury or falls—especially if your microwave is in a high cabinet. Make sure you have another person with you to assist you in lifting the old microwave out and placing the new microwave. If you need to stand on something to reach the microwave, choose something designed for the purpose, like a step stool or small ladder—not a chair or table. If you need to use a drill or screwdriver to secure the new microwave in place, ensure you are following sensible safety procedures and that you use eye protection.  

Replacing Your Microwave

While replacing a built-in microwave is simple, it still requires careful planning. Following these steps will ensure the replacement process runs smoothly and you don’t encounter any unpleasant surprises. 

Step 1: Choose Your Replacement

This is probably the most important part of the process—and the most likely to go wrong! There is nothing worse than realizing your brand-new purchase doesn’t fit properly, so do your due diligence before you buy. Check that your new microwave meets the necessary dimensions, voltage, and ventilation requirements. This is also the time to consider what you want out of a microwave so you can find one that suits your needs. Make sure you check the:

• Dimensions
• Type of microwave (standard or convection)
• Brand reputation
• Energy efficiency rating
• Features 
• Warranty coverage

Step 2: Remove Your Old Microwave

Once you’ve chosen your new microwave, it’s time to remove the old one. Start by switching off the circuit breaker to ensure there is no chance of electric shock. If your microwave is in a high place, carefully position the step stool or ladder to eliminate any risk of it slipping. Then follow these steps:

• Use a screwdriver to remove all the screws holding your microwave in place. Put these somewhere safe—you may need them to install your new model. 
• Slide the microwave out of the cabinetry, carefully supporting its weight. 
• With someone to help you support the microwave, disconnect the power cord. Some built-in microwaves also have ducting for ventilation, so you may need to disconnect this as well. 
• Place the microwave somewhere safe, along with any screws, clips, or other hardware you removed during the process. If your new microwave comes with its brackets or mounting points, then you may need to remove your old mounting points as well. 

Step 3: Install Your New Microwave

Before you install the new microwave, we strongly recommend cleaning out the cabinet area. It may have years worth of dust build-up, as well as sawdust, grime, and other debris. Once the area is clean, it’s time to install your new appliance. 

• First, check the microwave’s manual for any specific instructions regarding your model. 
• Attach any brackets or mounting points to the inside of the cabinetry. 
• With help, lift the new microwave up and carefully slide it into the space, making sure that the mounting points line up with the necessary places. Use a level to check it is sitting flat, and adjust if needed.
• Plug the new microwave in, then use screws or other fastening devices to secure it in place. 
• If your new microwave requires external ducting, ensure this is in place, or make sure that the microwave has the necessary gap for proper ventilation. 

Step 4: Test the New Microwave

Once the new microwave is in place, it’s time to make sure it works! Restore power to the circuit breaker, then perform the following tests:

• Check that the display is working and that you’re able to set the clock.
• Run a short test cycle to test if your microwave is heating properly. 

Step 5: Dispose of the Old Microwave

This step is often neglected, but proper appliance disposal is very important. If your microwave still works, you can donate it to a charity shop or try selling it online via Facebook Marketplace or similar. If it’s broken, make sure you dispose of it in an approved manner—you can research e-waste disposal in your area, or you can contact the microwave manufacturer and see if they offer a recycling program.