The average homeowner spends about $150 to install a microwave, depending on the type and any electrical or cabinetry work.
From last night’s leftovers to your long-forgotten cup of coffee, a microwave is your go-to appliance for a quick and easy reheat. Most microwave installations cost between $109 and $192, although you may spend as much as $400 to $600 to install over-the-range, built-in, or drawer microwaves. Other factors like adding outlets and custom cabinetry might drive up your final price.
Microwaves require a lot of power to operate. Be aware of the wattage requirements for your particular microwave. If you don’t have the proper outlet installed, this is a job for a local electrician. Do not attempt this yourself or plug the appliance into an extension cord.
Your cost to install a microwave depends on the cost of the microwave itself, as well as any labor and custom work to your cabinets. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect.
Depending on the type and brand, a new microwave costs between $60 and $5,000. If you’re looking for a standard countertop microwave, it costs $60 to $100.
On the other hand, you might be looking for a microwave with all the bells and whistles. A high-end stainless steel microwave and convection oven combo can cost upward of $2,000, while a sleek, smart microwave and wall oven combo ranges between $2,000 and $5,000.
Generally speaking, microwaves on the higher side come with smart features. These can include apps to control your microwave or features and sensors that sync your microwave with other smart appliances in your kitchen.
The cost to mount your microwave will depend on where you plan to mount it and if you need additional work. For example, if you already have an electrical outlet for the microwave, a sturdy wall to work with, and a model that doesn’t require ventilation, you may be able to DIY the job for the cost of the mounting kit. The mounting kits range between $20 and $50.
In most cases, you’ll need to hire a pro to install your microwave. Most microwave installations take one to three hours. You can expect to pay $50 to $80 per hour for a basic microwave replacement. If you need contractors other than the microwave installer (like someone to help with ductwork), it costs $40 to $100 per hour for electricians and $40 to $80 per hour for cabinet installers.
When installing your new microwave, it’s important that your electrical wiring is in good working order. If you live in an older home, you may need to get electrical work done before you can plug in your microwave. This might mean upgrading an old outlet, which costs $65 to $150, or upgrading your electrical panel, which costs $800 to $2,000.
Even if your electrical system is in good shape, you might need to install a new outlet near your microwave, which costs $150 to $350.
Built-in and drawer microwaves may require you to modify your cabinets. Modifying one cabinet to fit your microwave costs $400 to $500. You might also need to install new cabinetry for your microwave, which costs $500 to $1,500 per linear foot. A cabinet specialist can quote you for the modifications.
For vented over-the-range microwaves, you may need to spend $150 to $600 to install new venting ductwork. It’s best to install a direct vent to the outdoors since you can’t vent into your attic or crawl space, nor can you connect it to common ductwork.
When you hire a pro to install your new microwave, they may haul away your old one for free. But if the quote doesn’t include microwave disposal, you can expect to pay $20 to $50.
Do you need a microwave so you can pop a bowl of popcorn occasionally on the weekends, or do you need a combo unit that also doubles as a convection oven? Depending on what you need, there are different types of microwaves to choose from, each with varying price points.
| Microwave Type | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Countertop | $100–$580 |
| Over-the-range | $250–$1,200 |
| Built-in | $500–$2,500 |
| Drawer | $1,260–$2,430 |
| Combo oven | $2,600–$5,200 |
Countertop microwaves are the easiest to install. Labor is free if you opt to do it yourself, or it can cost up to $80 if you get the unit delivered and professionally installed.
With countertop units ranging between $50 and $500, the total cost of labor and materials is $100 to $580.
Over-the-range microwaves help you save precious counter space and double as a range hood vent. Over-the-range microwaves cost $150 to $600, but the total cost with installation is $250 to $1,200. This style of microwave is best for people who don’t need a full-sized vent hood—so if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, consider another option.
Installing an over-the-range microwave costs $100 to $300 for labor, although that price can increase to $200 to $600 or more if you need to install new ducting.
You might opt for recirculating microwaves to avoid installing ductwork, but note that you’ll need to replace the charcoal filter every six to 12 months. Although the filters can do a decent job, if you’re a consistent home cook, you’re probably better off with a vented microwave.
Built-in microwaves are a good alternative to over-the-range microwaves for the passionate home cook. These microwaves cost $400 to $2,000, so after labor costs, the installation will run you $500 to $2,500. This style saves counter space while getting the sophisticated custom look of built-in appliances.
Labor costs $100 to $300, although it can reach $500 or more if you need cabinetry work—it’ll depend on your kitchen layout. For many people, it’s as simple as replacing one cabinet with a microwave.
Drawer microwaves, sometimes called under-counter microwaves, are top-loading and go into bottom cabinets. The installation runs from $260 to $430. After the unit cost, which is $1,000 to $2,000, you can expect to spend $1,260 to $2,430 on a drawer microwave. It’s a modern, sleek option because the microwave is out of sight and easy to access.
Wall oven and microwave combinations are a good investment if you’re doing a kitchen remodel or furnishing a new kitchen from scratch. Labor for installing these is $100 to $200 on average. After the cost of the unit, which is $2,500 to $5,000, you can expect to pay $2,600 to $5,200 for a combo oven. These units are very modern-looking and great for people with a busy schedule who also enjoy baking on the weekends.
Installing a microwave under a shelf or cabinet is pretty straightforward for an experienced DIY-er. Built-in microwave installations are more complex and best left to a professional microwave installer near you. Due to the microwave’s weight, you may need at least one other person to help you.
Before you begin, allow sufficient space around the microwave’s vents for proper ventilation. Also, remove the turntable before mounting the microwave, as it can easily slip out and cause injury.
Here are some tools and supplies you might need:
| Item Required | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Stud finder | $20 |
| Power drill | $75 |
| Level | $6 |
| Lag screws | $3 |
| Toggle screws | $5 |
If your kitchen is properly wired for a new appliance, installing a microwave on your counter is free. Experienced DIYers may be able to complete an over-the-range microwave install for the price of the mounting kit, which is $20 to $50.
Otherwise, you should hire a microwave installer. Although the installation may run you $100 to $600, you’ll have the peace of mind that the job was well done. Some microwaves are very heavy, and others require precise installation.
The best way to save on microwave installation costs is to choose a unit that’s easy to install. Countertop microwaves usually don’t require anything more than clearing off space and a good, working outlet.
If you’ve decided on an over-the-range microwave and don’t have existing ductwork, going with a recirculating unit will save installation costs. Also, if you’re handy, you may be able to remove the existing hood vent on your own to save on labor costs.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to plan which appliances you want built in before you install any cabinetry. This is only possible for kitchen remodels or new construction, but if you know what you want beforehand, you can prep the cabinets for your appliances.
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Most microwave repairs cost between $50 and $400. The cost depends on the type of repair needed and the labor costs in your area. For example, replacing the diode costs $55 to $125, while replacing the magnetron costs $100 to $200. Depending on your microwave’s cost, it may be better to buy a replacement rather than invest in costly repairs.
Installing a microwave can take a pro anywhere between one and three hours. Countertop units are the quickest and easiest for most DIYers, while built-in, drawer, and vented over-the-range microwaves take longer. You may be looking at a three-hour install if you need electrical or custom cabinetry work.
If there’s already a suitable outlet near the range, you likely won’t need an electrician to install an over-the-range microwave. However, if there isn’t an existing outlet or the current one doesn’t meet the microwave’s power needs, you’ll probably need an electrician to install a new outlet.
No, you can’t install just any microwave over your range. You have to get a specific type of microwave known as an over-the-range unit. These include venting and lighting features that you’ll need above your stovetop.
Although countertop units are more affordable, they won’t work for this type of installation. To avoid hazardous conditions in your kitchen, buy the right type of microwave for your needs.
A microwave can last anywhere from five to 10 years. To get the most out of this appliance, you should follow a few maintenance tips:
Immediately clean up spills and food bits. To help with stuck-on food, heat a bowl of water with ¼ cup of lemon juice for one minute.
For over-the-range microwaves, clean the grease filter that’s underneath it. This will ensure the microwave runs efficiently.
Never put anything metal in the microwave, as it can create a fire hazard. Also, avoid dishes with metal trim for the same reason.
Avoid slamming the door. With years of use, the door switches could easily break.
