Greetings, DIYers! Your friendly, neighborhood repairman here to provide you with the tools, techniques and triumphant feeling that comes with mastering another home improvement project: securing a microwave to a wall. Say goodbye to counter clutter and hello to that sleek, space-saving look!
The Why Behind Wall-mounted Microwaves
An unsuspected benefit of having your microwave mounted, beyond wow-ing visitors with your savvy space utilization, is the safety element. A popular destination for hungry kids and frequent spill zones, countertops can lead to dangerous circumstances for your microwave. By elevating your equipment, you help prevent nasty spill short-outs and keep things out of the reach of small hands.
Let's Begin: Accumulate Your Arsenal
Like any determined DIYer, preparation is key. Harness your inner repairman and gather the following tools for the job:
- A Drill
- Stud Finder
- Level
- Pencil
- Measuring Tape
- Microwave Wall Mounting Bracket (specific to your microwave model)
Measure Twice, Drill Once
A wise man once said, "measure twice, cut once." In the realm of securing a microwave to a wall, this sage advice translates. Decide where you want to place your microwave. Here, establish the center of the microwave on the wall (generally above your stove). Use a pencil to mark it lightly.
Take your stud finder and locate your nearest wall studs. These will act as sturdy support for the microwave. Mark the center of these too. Before moving on, double-check your measurements. We strive for no oops moments in DIY-land!
Ready for the Drill
If you're doing this right, you've dusted off your trusty drill and are raring to go. Align your mounting bracket with the marks for the studs; remember, for every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction – this physics law also applies to home improvement. The weight of the microwave needs an equal and opposite force: the studs via the bracket.
Ensure the bracket is level before moving forward. Drill each of the screws provided into the holes on the bracket, fastening it securely to the wall. Cue dramatic superhero pose; the mounting part is done!
The Lift and Lock Moment
Next, a friendly reminder that safety comes first, so be sure to secure your microwave’s door closed with some tape. Now's the time to gently place your microwave onto the bracket you've so elegantly screwed into the wall. Use the bolts provided with the mounting kit to secure it. Make sure every screw is properly tightened, but beware of overtightening - there is a sweet spot.
Double-check the Details
Last but not least, time to nervously, or confidently (we prefer confidence), remove the tape from the door and open the microwave. It should remain intact. Check from different angles to ensure that it's level.
Final Pro Tips
Congrats on getting this far! Just a few extra tips to finish with flair:
- Use a cord cover to hide the microwave's power cord for a cleaner installation look.
- Check the microwave's alignment every few weeks, retightening any loosened screws.
- Revel in your DIY achievement and don't be shy about showing off your handiwork to friends, family, and random delivery people.
Wrapping Up Your DIY Journey
And voila! You are no longer just a DIY enthusiast, you're officially a wall-mounted-microwave-making maven. Congratulations on conquering another home improvement project - and remember to always enjoy the process. There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of looking up at that wall-secured microwave and knowing it's your handiwork on display.
See you on the next DIY adventure, fellow fixer-upper! Happy repairing!