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My first project question(s)
Thanks everyone in advance for your help. I just bought a condo and I am going to install an over the range microwave. It appears the previous owners wired the microwave directly to the 3 wires coming out of the wall (white, black and bare).
My first question is should I wire the microwave the same way or should I install a receptacle? Second what will I need to buy in order to install the receptacle? I believe the micro is on its own circuit. Sorry for the lack of terminology as this is really my first time doing home repairs. I am an automotive technician so I am familiar with AC electrical, not so much with DC. Thanks, Jack Myers |
I have seen it all in a box, at a big box store. All you need is a box a plug and a cover.
Check first that the wire is copper, black to brass screw white to silver, bare to ground green. |
Thanks for the quick reply. I'll be headed to the store after work. Thanks again
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It really depends on the new MW. If it has a plug on it then install a receptacle in the cabinet above to plug it in.
If no plug then hard wire it like the old one. |
If Joe is right and you hard wire, it will want to be done in a junction box with a cover.
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Unless the MW has a built in junction box. Then bring the cable into the box on the MW, clamp it and make the connections.
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I am an automotive technician so I am familiar with AC electrical, not so much with DC.
Automotive is DC not AC. |
Thanks kok for the correction
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Hard wiring from the original wire is acceptable. You are dealing with what is probably NB-2 wire which has a ground wire (the bare wire). Your new MW should have an internal box where you can fish the house wire and clamp it in place.
Simply attach the like-colors to each other, using a yellow wire nut. Twist clockwise until it is firm but do not over-tighten as it might snap the wire. I like to wrap each wire connection with a length of electrician tape to ensure long term stability. The ground wire can be twisted without a wire nut but it should be attached to the green screw that is inside the MW (check instructions). This is nto rocket science -- but it is electricity. Work carefully and systematically. You will do fine. |
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