When you’re out on the road, few appliances will come in handy as often as your microwave. Its portability and versatility make it the perfect RV kitchen aid capable of boiling water, heating leftovers, and preparing meals when you don’t want to stop at a roadside restaurant. Yet, the day will come when you need to retire your current microwave and replace it with a new one.
To remove an RV microwave, you’ll first have to locate the mounting screws. They should be tightened into brackets on either the left and right sides or top of the microwave. Loosen the screws and remove the old microwave from the brackets. Then, slide the new microwave into place and retighten to screws to hold it in place.
Although the step-by-step process of removing an RV microwave isn’t too complicated, you may struggle with the awkward angles. In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know to easily remove an RV microwave and explain some of the finer details that can help you choose a suitable replacement for your portable kitchen.
If you’re looking for the perfect replacement for an RV microwave, click here for more info on a top-of-the-line Furrion microwave.
Don’t forget to check out our Recommended RV Equipment list!
When to Replace an RV Microwave
The lifespan of a microwave is about seven years on average. However, this number will differ based on the model, how often it’s used, and the overall quality. If you frequently use your RV microwave for cooking large meals or boiling water, it will likely need to be replaced sooner than one that’s only used to heat leftovers.
To better know when to replace your RV microwave, pay attention to how it functions. If you notice that it’s taking longer to heat food or that the power output has decreased, it’s likely time for a replacement. These signs indicate that the magnetron, which is responsible for generating microwaves, is beginning to fail.
Other signs that you need a new RV microwave to include strange noises, sparking, or smoke. If you see, smell, or sense any of these issues, unplug the microwave immediately and do not use it until you can replace it.
How to Replace an RV Microwave
If you have ever removed a mounted microwave from your home kitchen, you are well prepared to tackle an RV microwave. The steps are pretty similar to those for removing a standard over-the-range microwave. However, there are a few things you’ll need to take into account, such as the size and location of the mounting screws.
To remove an RV microwave, you’ll need:
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- A putty knife
Once you have your tools, you can then follow these steps:
- First, remove the trim or border surrounding the outer edge of the microwave. You should be able to slide your putty knife between the wall and the trim and pull it away. If any screws are holding it in place, loosen and remove them before attempting to pull the border from the wall.
- Once you have removed the border, locate the mounting screws. They are usually located on the left and right sides of the microwave or top of it. If you can’t find them, look for a small hole on the top or side of the microwave. This is where the screws will be hidden.
- After finding the screws, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen and remove them. Be careful not to drop the screws, as they can be challenging to see if they fall behind the microwave.
- Next, use the putty knife to pry the old microwave away from the mounting bracket. If the microwave is mounted on the side of the RV, you may need to pull it out at an angle to avoid hitting the countertop.
- Finally, slide the new microwave into place and use the screws to secure it to the mounting bracket. If the new microwave is a different size or shape than the old one, you may need to use additional screws or brackets.
- Replace the trim by sliding it back into place and tighten any mounting screws you may have removed.
The most challenging part of removing the microwave will be angling your screwdriver into place. Some mounting systems are installed on slides that make the process easier, but if yours isn’t, you can use a right-angle Phillips head screwdriver to better access the screws.
Do You Need a Special Microwave for an RV?
Now that you know how to replace an RV microwave, you may be wondering if you need a unique model for your recreational vehicle. In general, the answer is no. You can use any standard over-the-range or countertop microwave in your RV.
The main difference between an RV microwave and a standard one is size. RV microwaves are designed to be compact to fit in smaller spaces. If you have a lot of counter space in your RV kitchen, you may be able to accommodate a standard-sized microwave. However, choosing a smaller model is best if you’re tight on space.
When selecting an RV microwave, you should also consider the wattage. The higher the wattage, the faster the microwave will heat food. If you frequently use your microwave for cooking large meals, you’ll want one with a high wattage so that it can heat food quickly. However, a lower wattage model will suffice if you only use it to heat leftovers or make popcorn.
To help you pick out a new model, I have compiled a list of some of the top things to consider before purchasing. Check them out below and know what to look for before you shop:
Size
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a replacement RV microwave is size. You will need to ensure that the new microwave will fit into the same space as the old one.
To do this, measure the height, width, and depth of the space where the microwave will go. Then, compare these measurements to the dimensions of the new microwave.
It’s also essential to make sure that the new microwave will fit through the RV door. Measure the doorframe to ensure that the new microwave can be brought inside the RV.
Power
Another factor to consider when choosing a replacement RV microwave is its power. Microwaves are measured in watts, and the higher the wattage, the more powerful the microwave will be. For example, a 700-watt microwave will cook food faster than a 500-watt microwave.
For an RV, you can generally make do with a 900-watt microwave. At this power level, you should be able to heat pretty much anything you’d eat out on the road without putting too much stress on your RV’s power source. Anything higher than this, and you may overburden your RV’s battery or generator.
Mounting Systems
If your old microwave was mounted to a set of side brackets, you’d want to find a new model with a similar mounting system. Otherwise, if you purchase a top-mounted microwave, you’ll have to remove the existing brackets and install an entirely new set of top-mounted brackets before you can position the replacement microwave into place.
Do You Have to Mount a Replacement Microwave?
You may not have to mount your new RV microwave in some cases. Technically speaking, you could always use a countertop microwave in an RV. These models are designed to be used on a kitchen counter and don’t require special mounting hardware. However, if you choose to use a countertop microwave, understand that you’ll have to deal with unique issues.
For example, you’ll have to find a small microwave to fit comfortably on the counter with enough clearance above and around it for the door to swing open without hitting anything. Additionally, you’ll have to ensure that the power cord is long enough to reach an outlet. Though, most countertop microwaves come with a 6-foot cord that should be long enough.
Then there’s the issue of safe storage. If you’re driving offroad through a national park, you likely won’t want a microwave sitting out in the open on your kitchen counter.
The bumpiness from the road could jostle the microwave around, causing it to fall off and break. Finding a large enough cabinet to store the microwave could solve this problem, but you’ll limit already-limited storage space.
If you already have the space for a mounted microwave, it’s better to bite the bullet and deal with the installation process rather than struggle with a countertop model during a road trip.
The Bottom Line
Although removing an RV microwave may seem daunting, it’s not that complicated. With a bit of time and patience, you should be able to remove the old microwave and install a new one without any issues. Just remember to consider the new microwave’s size, power, and mounting system before making a quick purchase.
Don’t forget to check out our Recommended RV Equipment list!
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