How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet, or under the counter, takes up valuable space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances, such as a wall-mounted oven is also simple.
Choose from a range of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Think about other options, too.
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. These models can help you cut down on meal time with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models have a retractable turntable which allows loading and unloading to be done more easily.
While you shop, consider the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger items, such as casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. For example, a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave is the power level. Choose models with higher wattage to cook food more quickly and more evenly. Some microwaves come with multiple power levels, allowing you to adjust the power output based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ depending on the type. They include the exterior width and height as well as the interior capacity. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping as they give you an idea of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is listed separately and can help in determining the best model for your home.
The interior space of small built-in microwaves differs from model to however, most will have an overall diameter that is around 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths could be a bit smaller to be able to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and match models from over-the-range. Height and depth vary between models, but all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, measure the area where you'd like to place it and clear any obstructions in the space. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch space between the wall and the microwave for ventilation and 3 inches between the edge of the countertop and the door that is open to avoid tipping.
Design
It is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space when selecting the best small built-in microwave. There are a variety of options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen, including placing it on a wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer-style arrangement, or even in the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, creating a seamless look.
The design of the door is also crucial. A lot of microwave models have a right-to left swinging door, drop down doors or a drawer. These options allow users of any height to easily access the appliance, and also save valuable countertop space. In addition to these convenience features, some microwaves have top-of-the-line features that can give the look and feel of a luxury to the kitchen.
It is also important to keep in mind the amount of power that will be required to cook certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will show the power rating. A model with higher wattage will allow for faster cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food.
microwave oven built in Ovens And Hobs of the most common ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is placing it inside of an existing cabinet. They are available at various price points however they are placed right against the cabinet for an elegant appearance. To make sure the installation will function properly it is crucial to look at the owner's manual and instructions for installation for the microwave model you are contemplating.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern appearance which will help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the most appropriate place to put it. It is important to remember that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and back to function correctly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to complete many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of microwaves is measured in watts and this affects how fast and evenly it cooks food. In general, higher wattage microwaves will cook food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have an elegant, modern look that blends seamlessly with your other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that require less space, but still provide enough space to accommodate tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also select from a variety of control options to make cooking and warming food more convenient and easy. For instance, you can go for models with sensor-cooking technology to make mealtime even more easy. Features like tap-to-open and slim, sleek designs allow you to easily fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or islands give your kitchen a modern design and free up counter space. These models require professional installation but allow you to be more creative with the design of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to tight spaces or corners.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This should give you details on the amount of space needed for ventilation as well as the materials and tools needed to make the installation successful. Depending on the model of your home, the electrical system may need to be altered. If you are planning to install the system yourself, turn off the electrical power to your home prior starting work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet that could hinder the microwave from being placed properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and there aren't other appliances around. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs under the cabinet where you plan to mount the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you hear a solid noise it means you've located an appropriate stud. Once you have located the wall studs using a pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, you can tape it to the upper cabinet to serve as a guideline for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do for proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through an exterior wall, cabinet, or island.
When installing a built-in microwave ensure that an assistant holds the appliance while you attach it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that can support the weight of the microwave, like lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will secure the plate in place to the wall. The power cord can be pulled through the hole drilled specifically for this purpose.