What to Do with Your Old Microwave Range Hood

Microwave range hoods are marketed as having the ability to do double duty: heating up food and removing cooking odors, smoke, and grease. But as we’ve explored before, they’re not a replacement for a dedicated range hood. They lack ventilation power, causing greasy surfaces and lingering odors. These appliances also recirculate air in many cases, which does little to remove smoke, grease, or moisture from the cooking environment.

Plus, microwaves are often mounted at an inconvenient height—typically above eye level, making it difficult to access safely. This not only compromises the ergonomics of everyday cooking but can also be a safety hazard, especially when lifting hot or heavy dishes in and out of the microwave. So, it’s best to replace these appliances with a dedicated range hood. In this article, we’ll explain how to uninstall a typical microwave range hood and what to do with it once you’re done.

How to Uninstall a Microwave Range Hood

Fortunately, removing a microwave range hood is a straightforward process. First, gather these basic tools.

Tools You'll Need:

• A drill or screwdriver
• A stud finder
• Measuring tape
• An extra pair of hands (microwaves can be heavy!)
• Ladder or sturdy step stool

How to Uninstall:

• Turn Off the Power: Safety first. Ensure that the microwave is unplugged. If it’s hardwired into your home, turn off the circuit at the breaker to prevent electrical accidents.
• Remove the Venting Connection: If your microwave range hood is vented to the outside, you’ll need to disconnect the vent from the unit. You may need to  unscrew the vent cover and loosen the ductwork.
• Detach the Microwave from the Wall: Most microwave hoods are mounted on a wall bracket and secured with screws through the upper cabinet. Using a screwdriver or drill, remove the screws holding the microwave to the cabinet. Have someone hold the microwave from below while you do this so it doesn’t fall.
• Lift the Microwave Off the Bracket: Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the microwave off the mounting bracket. Take care with this step; the microwave may be heavy.
• Remove the Mounting Bracket: Finally, remove the wall bracket by unscrewing it from the wall. Be mindful of any holes or damage this process may leave behind. You might need to patch and repaint the wall once everything is removed.

What to Do with the Old Microwave Range Hood

After you’ve uninstalled the microwave range hood, you may be wondering what to do with it next. Here are some options:

• Donate or Sell It: If the microwave is still functional, consider donating it to a charity or selling it online. Many people look for used appliances, especially if they are in good working condition.
• Recycle It: Many electronic recycling centers accept microwaves. Given the metal and electronic components, recycling is a much better option than sending it to a landfill. Your city or town government may also have a recycling amnesty day where they will accept the microwave. 
• Repurpose Parts: If you’re into DIY projects, consider salvaging some parts like the fan or motor for other home improvement tasks.
• Dispose of It: Finally, if you can’t find another option for the appliance, check with your local waste management service for proper disposal options. Many municipalities have designated days or locations for bulky item pickups and electronic waste disposal.

Replace the Microwave Range Hood

Proper kitchen ventilation is a top priority, so it’s best to replace your microwave range hood with a dedicated under cabinet range hood. These hoods are designed solely for ventilation and outperform any microwave combo. For an understated look, you can swap out the old unit for the best under cabinet range hood, which offers excellent airflow while staying visually discreet.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a quieter cooking environment, consider a quiet range hood that minimizes noise while delivering top performance. For a complete installation guide, you can refer to tips on how to install a range hood vent through the wall, ensuring your new hood operates efficiently.

Upgrading your range hood is an investment in both kitchen safety and functionality. A dedicated hood will enhance air quality, reduce lingering odors, and improve the overall cooking experience.