Microwave

[woman_who_sees]

After 10 years of heavy use (we don't use our oven) , our microwave is finally dying.  Can the one over the stove be replaced or do we buy a new one for the counter?

[Mark and Dale Bruss]

The microwave can be replaced.  There is the standard household size 30" wide, very easy to get a replacement.  If not 30" wide, then you have to shop more for a microwave that will fit the spot.

[Solo18]

You also have to consider how the current one vents, so you can buy a replacement that vents the same way because of the way they are set in cabinets.  In other words, does air blow out the back, sides, top, or bottom? 

[Dutch_12078]

When our OEM Sharp microwave died, I found  a 1000 watt Hamilton Beach unit at Walmart for $88 that fit the ventilated front trim from the Sharp with just some minor rebending of the mounting straps and adding a couple of small wood shims to support the feet. It's been in regular use for the past two years with no problems.The vents are in approximately the same locations as the Sharp vents.

[EagleEye]

Ours went out after about 8 years and we looked online for one from the same manufacture and found one that was very similar and it fit just like the old one. Didn't even have to replace the bracket on the wall.

[Ray,IN]

2 hours ago, Solo18 said:

You also have to consider how the current one vents, so you can buy a replacement that vents the same way because of the way they are set in cabinets.  In other words, does air blow out the back, sides, top, or bottom? 

New units have a "box" that directs air flow, you remove it and turn to vent to the location you desire.

[masterdrago]

They can be tricky to install/replace. And yes most of the venting is pretty standard depending on who makes them. Not sure about the "off" brand in ours (High Pointe). I suggest taking it out and examining how things are arranged since so much of the RV industry does not use standard ware.