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How to Budget for an Over-the-Range Microwave

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How to Budget for an Over-the-Range Microwave

Clear your counters and upgrade your kitchen for $25 a month by timing your purchase and using a long interest-free window.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $450 before anything else
Across the 0% window $25.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $450 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Swapping a bulky countertop unit for a stainless steel over-the-range microwave changes how your kitchen feels. It clears up workspace and adds better lighting and venting over your stove. A pro can usually handle the swap in about two hours if the power and venting are already in place.

You will find the best prices during major holiday weekends like Labor Day or Memorial Day when appliance retailers lean into heavy discounts. Before you buy, get at least two quotes from local handymen or appliance installers. Labor costs vary depending on whether they have to modify your cabinets or just bolt the new unit to the wall.

This plan only works if you stay disciplined with your monthly payments. The 0% rate is a temporary window, not a permanent feature. If you still have a balance after 18 months, the card will start charging its standard interest rate on whatever is left.

The steps

  1. 01

    Time the sale

    Wait for a major holiday weekend to shop for your appliance. Retailers often mark down stainless steel models by 20% or more during these events. You can usually find a solid mid-range model for under $300 during a sale.

  2. 02

    Confirm your measurements

    Measure the width of the opening and the distance between the stove top and the bottom of the microwave. Most standard units are 30 inches wide. If your space is non-standard, you might need a trim kit or custom cabinet work.

  3. 03

    Compare labor quotes

    Ask two or three local pros for a flat installation rate. This should include removing your old unit and disposing of it. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for labor if the electrical outlet is already there.

  4. 04

    Spread out the cost

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) to pay for the appliance and the labor. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This gives you a long window to pay it off without extra costs.

  5. 05

    Automate the payments

    Divide your total cost by 18 to find your monthly target. For a $450 project, that is $25.00 per month. Set up an automatic payment for that exact amount so the balance is gone before the interest starts.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Can I install this myself?

What if I do not have a vent to the outside?

Does the $450 cover everything?

Is stainless steel harder to clean?