How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is set in cabinets, or under the counter, takes up valuable space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. It's also simple to put them at a comfortable height and close to other kitchen appliances like a wall oven.
Select from a variety of door designs. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Other features are also worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide variety of sizes and capacities to suit any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop microwaves and low-profile models. They can speed up mealtimes by offering features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models also have a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Consider the size of your household and whether you'll use the microwave to cook larger serving ware such as platters or casseroles. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. For instance an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire offers enough space to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
oven microwave built in to consider when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models with higher wattage that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with multiple power settings, so you can adjust the amount of heat produced based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ depending on the type. They include the height and width on the outside and the interior capacity. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping since they provide an idea of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is listed separately and can be helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave may differ between models. However, the majority of models will have a width of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths can be a bit smaller to fit standard cabinet cutout sizes and match models from over-the-range. The height and depth differ between models, however all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to install the microwave and clear any obstructions. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is crucial to think about the overall kitchen design and how the appliance will work in the space. You can incorporate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It could be hung on the wall, set beneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, creating an aesthetically pleasing look.
Choosing the right door style is a crucial aspect to consider. Many microwave models offer doors that swing left-to-right dropping doors, drop-down doors, or an open drawer. These options allow users of all heights to easily access the appliance and help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves are equipped with many high-end features to give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is essential to consider the wattage required for certain meals. The back of most microwaves will show the power rating. A model that has a more watts will allow for faster cooking and heating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more energy efficient. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food items.
Installing a small microwave into an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves can be found at a wide range of price points but generally sit close to the cabinet and have an attractive, integrated look. It is crucial to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Another option is to place the microwave on a wall, such as in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean and sleek look that can help open the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine what is the best placement. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on both side and back to function effectively.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts, and this can affect the speed at which it cooks food. In general, higher wattage models will cook food faster and more effectively than lower wattage models.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, and this creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. Additionally, you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space, yet still offer plenty of space for tall glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also select from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easier. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes easier. Other features include tap-to-open doors and a slim, sleek design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into the cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that removes the appliance from your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but allow you to be more creative with the layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit them into tight spaces and corners.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. This should give you information about how much space is required to allow for ventilation, as well as what materials and tools are needed to make the installation a success. Based on the model, your home's electrical system might have to be modified for the installation. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power to your home prior to beginning the work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could interfere with placing the microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and that there aren't any other appliances within the space. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you plan to mount the microwave. You can also tap the wall using a hammer to find studs. If you can hear a distinct sound then you've found an nail. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them using an eraser and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas have ventilation systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do for proper ventilation, like elevating the unit a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to support the appliance as you fix it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of your microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Secure oven microwave built in mounting plate to the wall with these screws and then run the power cord through a hole made to serve this purpose.