Old microwave swap where the holes don't line up
A new unit almost never matches the old bracket. We take down the old plate, install the new one from its own template and fill the old screw holes.
Serving Skokie & nearby Evanston, Park Ridge
Microwave Installation in Skokie, IL
Over-the-range, drawer and built-in microwaves installed in Skokie: anchored into the wall, bolted to the cabinet and vented the right way.
- Installers working in Skokie ZIP 60076, 60077, 60203
- Hookups by licensed trades where the code calls for it
- Old unit hauled away on request
Microwave installs we take on in Skokie
Most microwave calls we get in Skokie are one of three jobs: a new over-the-range unit replacing an old one or a hood, a drawer model going into an island, or a built-in with a trim kit set into a wall cabinet. Each has its own cutout, power and venting needs, and we sort those out first.
Convection or air-fry microwave on an old circuit
Combination microwaves with convection or air-fry modes are heavier and can draw more power. We check the circuit rating against the model before it goes up.
Built-in microwave with a trim kit
A countertop model can look built in when it goes into a wall cabinet with the maker's trim kit. We cut or size the opening so the trim covers it cleanly.
Duct that doesn't line up with the new unit
The exhaust opening on a new microwave may sit inches away from the old hood duct. We fit a transition piece or adjust the opening so air moves without leaks.
Moving the microwave off the counter
Many owners want the counter clear. We look at the range wall, the base cabinets and the wall cabinets to see where a mounted microwave fits best.
Microwave drawer in an island or base cabinet
Putting a microwave drawer in the island keeps it within reach for kids and away from the cooktop. We build the cutout to the maker's spec and run power to it.
Over-the-range microwave replacing a range hood
When the old range hood comes down, we cap its wiring, have a plug-in outlet put in the cabinet above and connect the microwave's exhaust to the existing vent where it lines up.
Cabinet above that's the wrong width or depth
A standard over-the-range microwave expects a cabinet bottom about as wide as the unit to bolt into. If the cabinet is narrower, shallower or uneven, we add a filler or adjust it.
What the install includes
- Old unit or hood removedWe unplug or disconnect the old unit and clear the wall and cabinet for the new one.
- Outlet and circuitA receptacle in the cabinet above or behind the drawer, on a dedicated circuit when the maker calls for one, added by a licensed electrician.
- Studs located and wall plate mountedThe mounting plate is leveled and screwed into studs per the template.
- Cabinet drilled to the templateHoles for the top bolts, the power cord and a top vent cut through the cabinet bottom.
- Blower set and duct connectedWe orient the blower for your vent path and seal the connection to the duct.
- Unit hung and boltedThe unit is hooked on the bracket, bolted from above and checked for level.
- Testing and haul-awayWe run the microwave, the fan at each speed and the light, then take the old unit and packaging away.
What to pick before the install
Built-in and trim-kit microwavesMicrowaves set into a wall or pantry cabinet with a finishing trim.
Venting partsDamper, duct transitions, charcoal filters and wall or roof caps.
Low-profile over-the-range modelsShorter units that leave more room above the burners where cabinets are low.
Microwave drawersDrawer units set in a base cabinet, reachable without lifting dishes overhead.
Convection and air-fry combosMulti-mode microwaves that can stand in for a second oven.
What the work looks like in Skokie homes
Before
Installed
DetailA Skokie 1990s two-story colonial: before and after
A 1990s two-story colonial in Skokie, a typical kitchen for Skokie. What we started with: black appliances. The reason for the call: an over-the-range unit that sagged off its bracket. Finished kitchen: a new over-the-range microwave installed above the range and vented. Work included cabinet drilled to the template, blower set and duct connected, plus unit hung and bolted.
Before
AfterMicrowave Installation in a 1920s courtyard-building condo, Evanston
The site: a 1920s courtyard-building condo in Evanston. What we started with: black appliances. The reason for the call: a microwave that had stopped working over the range. After: a new over-the-range microwave installed above the range and vented. On site this meant studs located and wall plate mounted, cabinet drilled to the template, plus blower set and duct connected.
Microwave Installation in Evanston →
Before
AfterBefore and after: a two-story colonial from the 1990s in Park Ridge
A two-story colonial from the 1990s in Park Ridge, a typical kitchen for Park Ridge. Before: almond appliances. The main complaint was an old range hood that barely moved any air. After: a new over-the-range microwave installed above the range and vented. The job covered studs located and wall plate mounted, blower set and duct connected, plus testing and haul-away.
Microwave Installation in Park Ridge →
Before
AfterSkokie kitchen, 1950s ranch: kitchen remodeling
Finished: cabinets in light butter yellow with polished nickel pulls, black honed granite counters, a gray beveled subway tile backsplash, light oak hardwood flooring and two glass pendants and recessed lights.
Kitchen Remodeling in Skokie →
Before
AfterBefore and after: a postwar Cape Cod in Skokie
The same doors sprayed in powder blue, new satin brass pulls; counters and floor stayed as they were.
Kitchen Cabinet Painting in Skokie →Install day
- Send the model and photosTell us which microwave you bought and show us where it goes.
- Fit and power checkClearances, power and duct are checked against the installation guide.
- Written estimateA clear written price with electrical or cabinet changes listed separately.
- Install and testOld unit down, new one mounted and vented, everything tested and the old microwave hauled off.
Microwave Installation questions from Skokie homeowners
Is a microwave enough ventilation over a gas range?
A microwave fan helps, but it's not as strong as most hoods. We'll tell you honestly which fits your range.
Can you put a microwave drawer in my island?
Yes in most cases. The island cabinet is adjusted to the maker's cutout and a receptacle is installed behind the drawer.
Can an over-the-range microwave vent outside?
Most models can vent outdoors through the top or back. Whether yours can depends on the duct path, which we check.
Do I need an electrician to install an over-the-range microwave?
Not if there's already a proper outlet in the cabinet above. If there isn't, or the maker calls for a dedicated circuit you don't have, a licensed electrician adds it first.
How long does microwave installation take?
Most swaps are done in one visit; built-in and drawer units with cabinet work may need more time.
What is the Skokie building department phone number?
Permits go through Community Development Department - Building & Inspection Services Division (www.skokiepermits.com), phone (847) 933-8223. When your scope needs one, we prepare the application and schedule the inspections.
What happens to the old appliance in Skokie?
One large item or two small items at the curb weekly on regular refuse day, no appointment, out by 7 a.m. and no more than 24 hours ahead. If you'd rather not deal with it, we haul old units and debris away.
Skokie contractor registration: do kitchen contractors need it?
Many contractors must be registered and insured with the Village each year; permits are not issued unless all listed contractors are registered and insured. We take care of that before work starts.
Do I need a permit for microwave installation in Skokie?
It depends on the scope. Skokie's rule in short: Electrical work and plumbing or electrical system changes need a permit. We handle the permit when one is needed with Community Development Department - Building & Inspection Services Division.
Do you work in my part of Skokie?
Yes. Our crews work across Skokie — ZIP 60076, 60077, 60203 — and nearby Evanston, Park Ridge, Glenview.
Working in Skokie
- A lot of Skokie kitchens date from the 1950s. We know these layouts well and what is worth keeping.
- Most Skokie homes are single-family. We protect floors and driveways and leave the site clean every day.
- We know how Community Development Department - Building & Inspection Services Division handles kitchen permits and pull them for you.
ZIP 60076ZIP 60077ZIP 60203
Microwave Installation nearby
Other kitchen services in Skokie
Dishwasher InstallationOld unit out, new dishwasher connected, leveled and leak-tested.
Oven, Range & Cooktop InstallationGas and electric ranges, wall ovens and cooktops, safely connected.
Built-In Refrigerator InstallationBuilt-in and panel-ready fridges fitted flush, anchored and connected.
Kitchen RemodelingFull kitchen remodels, from layout to last cabinet pull.
Kitchen Cabinet PaintingFactory-smooth painted cabinets without replacing them.