Built in microwave in kitchen, how expensive to replace?

Question

Tenant said that using the microwave suddenly trips the breaker. I told them to stop using it for now until I can get my guy out there.

It's one of those older kitchens where the microwave is built into the cabinetry. Not like the modern ones, I am talking it's built INTO a hole.

I checked my lease, the standard RHA lease for Washington state, that I thought had check boxes for what appliances are included, and apparently I'm imagining things, I don't see such a check list in there for that (just for utilities).

At the end of the day, I can always buy a microwave for the counter. I just worry about the hazard of a tripping breaker.

Cara Lonsdale · Answer

Both HD and Lowes sell built in cabinet microwaves (yes, built in with the vent and everything, not just the one that hands over the range.  They run about $800+

However, I would address your underlying problem FIRST which is the tripped breaker.  This indicates a short somewhere.  It is possible that after your electrician gets in there and addresses the tripped breaker, your current microwave will work again.

Additionally, when the electrician comes, you may want to discuss with him/her the opportunity to upgrade the breaker to a larger voltage so that the kitchen electrical can take more of a load.

Best of luck to you!

Jack B. · Answer

I quickly resolved the issue myself, it was nothing. The tenant was using a hot plate of 1500 watts and a microwave of 1200 watts on the same circuit. They know better now. I still haven't decided if I will allow use of the hot plate on another outlet or not.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I've seen replacement microwaves for around $200. Even over-the-range microwaves can be purchased for around $200.

As others have said, I would be more concerned about the tripping breaker. It could be the breaker is old and going bad so I would start with that.

Dennis M. · Answer

If this is over the stove I’d simply replace it with an 80$ range hood and call it a day . Let the tenant buy his own microwave to sit on the counter . I would not be paying 800$ for a microwave setup that’s for sure

Ned Carey · Answer

@Jack B. As already said,  I  would be as concerned about the wiring as much as the microwave.  Do you have GFI outlets. If not it is time to upgrade the electric.

Brian Ploszay · Answer

There must be a way to slide it out.  If not, it is an unusual situation.  You might have to disassemble some of the cabinets to get it out.

I think the problem is most likely not the microwave.  The first question I would ask is did the breaker pop when you used two appliances on the same circuit.

Built in microwave in kitchen, how expensive to replace?

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