How to Remove a Wall Oven Microwave Combo | An 8-Step Process
Kitchen appliances are often required to remove for repairs or replacements. Usually, it is just a matter of unplugging from the outlet and moving them. But, some heavy appliances like a wall oven microwave combo require proper equipment and assistance to remove.
To remove a wall oven microwave combo, you need to cut off the power, dismantle the parts in stages and finally move it with the help of another person. The process may seem overwhelming, but not impossible if you follow the method properly.
How to Remove a Wall Oven Microwave Combo: Step-by-Step Guideline
Wall oven microwave combos are heavier than single ones. So, your task will be easier if you ask someone for help. Follow the guide step-by-step to minimize hassles.
Equipment You Need
First, you need to gather the right equipment. Most of them should be available at your local hardware store.
- Electrical tape
- A pair of wire cutters
- A non-contact voltage tester
- Wrench
- Screwdrivers
- A lifting dolly (Especially if you are doing the task alone)
If you do not have any of the equipment or missing a few, the online store is one tap away.
The following is a detailed and descriptive guide for the removal of a wall oven.
Step 1: Shut off the Power
This is the first and one of the most important steps before you proceed to disassemble the wall oven microwave combo. Go to the electrical junction box to where all of your kitchen appliances are connected to. Disconnect the power supply for the oven by turning off the breaker.
Use a non-contact voltage tester to check the power before removing any wires from the connection. It is important to keep the breaker off until your work is done and the wires are secured properly.
Step 2: Dismantle the Oven Doors
To access the screws holding the rear part of the oven, you need to dismantle the oven doors. For this part, you need to know the design of your particular model of oven first. There should be two doors for your wall oven microwave combo; one for the oven and the other one for the microwave.
For most products, the doors can be removed by unlocking the hinge locks. In this case, follow these steps:
- Step 2.1: Open one of the doors completely.
- Step 2.2: Turn the door hinge locks back on both sides. If the door is joined with screws to the hinges, use an appropriate screwdriver to unscrew them.
- Step 2.3: Close the door partially and then lift it and pull it towards you.
- Step 2.4: Put the door aside in a safe spot and then proceed to dismantle the other one in the same method.
Step 3: Remove the Racks
Remove all the racks that obstruct your way. Also, remove the loose ones, otherwise, they may cause problems while moving the oven.
Step 4: Remove the Bottom Vent
If your oven has a bottom vent, you need to remove it before you can dismantle the oven from the cabinet. Use a screwdriver to remove the vent.
Step 5: Unthread the Screws Around the Frame
If you look around the frame of the oven, you will find several screws. Unthread the ones that are used to attach the frame to the cabinet. Once the screws are removed, the frame should be loose and your oven should become more accessible.
Step 6: Disconnect the Electrical Wires
Even if you shut down the breaker of the oven before starting the disassembling process, you should check with a tester again for an active current. If your tester shows no light, you can proceed to disconnect the wires.
Before cutting any wire, take a picture of the wiring system. This will help if you wish to reattach the oven in the future. Use wire cutters to disconnect the electrical wires from the junction box. Secure the loose ends of wires using electrical tape for safety.
Step 7: Remove the Base Cover Plate
Unthread the screws that are used to attach the base cover plate to the electrical box. Once all the screws are removed, your oven is detached completely from the wall and can be moved freely.
Step 8: Remove the Oven
This is the part where you will be needing help from someone else. Wall oven microwave combos are quite heavy to move all by yourself. Getting someone to help you while moving will minimize the risk of you getting hurt as well as the possibility of any damage to the appliance.
Carefully lift the combined oven and slowly pull it further from the wall. Cautiously place it down somewhere safe from children and pets once it is removed from the wall completely. It is better to put it on cardboard instead of putting it on the floor directly.
If you cannot get anyone to help you, use a lifting dolly instead of moving it all by yourself. You can use an Alldolly for this task.
Can You Replace Just the Microwave in a Microwave Oven Combo
Usually, in a microwave oven combo, both the microwave and the oven share the same control panel. As a result, even though the microwave alone can be removed for repair, it cannot be replaced. If you still manage to match the size and shape of the new microwave with your built-in one, it will not work.
How Do You Remove the Combination on a GE Microwave Oven
It mostly involves removing the bolts and screws. First, remove the oven from the wall and put it in a safe spot. Then locate the bolts and screws that hold the two ovens together. Take them out to remove the combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a wall oven microwave combo weigh?
Answer: It depends on the size of the oven. A typical 30-inch wall oven microwave combo weighs about 250 to 265 lbs.
Can I replace a microwave oven combo with a double oven?
Answer: It is possible to replace a microwave oven combo with a double oven. However, some minor modifications will be required to fit the new ovens in the cabinet. Such as, modifying the opening of the cabinet and building separate shelves for each oven.
How Do I Remove a Combination Wall Oven
Combination wall ovens can be removed for repairs or replacements. First cut off the power and then remove the doors. Remove the necessary screws and then slowly pull the oven out of the wall cavity with the help of another person. Keep it somewhere safe away from children and pets.
How Do I Remove a Microwave Oven Combination
After disconnecting the power, dismantle the parts like doors, air vents, and racks one by one. Unfasten the screws and carefully remove the oven from the cabinet. Use a lifting dolly if you are doing it by yourself.
Final Thoughts
A wall oven microwave combo gives you flexibility during cooking. But, removing and replacing them can be a little bit tricky due to their heavy weight. Be cautious while handling the electrical wires and ask for help while moving them. Keep the children and the pets at a safe distance to avoid any unwanted events.