How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free space on your counter and creates a seamless look. It's also simple to set them at a comfortable height and near other kitchen appliances like an oven that is wall mounted.
Select from a variety of door designs. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide variety of capacities and sizes to fit any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find one that suits your space. These models speed up meals with features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models also feature a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
When you shop, think about the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger items, such as platters or casseroles. Look for a microwave with more capacity to handle these larger items. For instance an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.
The power level is another important aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave. Look for models with higher wattage that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with different power settings, which means you can adjust the power output according to what you are cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary depending on the type. They include the exterior width and height, as well as the interior capacity. Exterior sizes can be useful when shopping since they provide an idea of what you can expect. The interior capacity of each model is provided separately and can assist in determining the right model for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave will vary from model to model. However, most models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of some models might be a little smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over-the-range models. The models vary in height and depth, however, they all need to be mounted at least 12 inches higher than the stove for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave take a measurement of the space you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions from the area. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch space between the wall and the microwave to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the open door to prevent tipping.
Design
It is essential to take into consideration the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the space when choosing the most suitable small built-in microwave. You can incorporate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It could be hung on the wall, placed under the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed within the cabinetry. This allows the appliance to blend into other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated look.
Selecting the right style of door is a crucial aspect to consider. Many microwave models offer doors that swing left-to-right drop-down doors, drop-down doors or an open drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for people of all heights and can help to save counter space. Certain microwaves have a variety of high-end features to give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is important to consider the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating at the back of the appliance. A model that has more watts allows 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.
One of the most common ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but are generally close to the cabinet and have a finished, integrated look. It is crucial to read the instructions and owner's guide for the microwave you're considering.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be done in a nook or pantry. This will give the kitchen a neat, streamlined appearance that can help open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the most appropriate place to put it. But, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave requires sufficient air clearance on both side and the back for it to perform properly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can be used to complete many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of microwaves is measured in watts and this can affect the speed at which it cooks food. In general, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are incorporated in your kitchen's cabinets and this gives them a streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore there are built-in models that are designed to take up less space but still have ample room inside for large glasses, wide dishes and other items.
You can also select from a wide range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easier. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make eating simple. Other features include doors that can be opened with a tap and a sleek, slim design that makes them easier to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves integrated into island and cabinet structures provide a sleek look that removes the appliance from your counters, thereby freeing up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but let you be more creative with the design of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit into tight spaces and corners.
Before installing your new microwave, consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you select. This will provide information on how much space is required for ventilation and what materials and tools are required to make the project a success. Based on oven with microwave built in , your home's electrical system might need to be altered for the installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to shut off your home's power before starting work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet which could interfere with placing the microwave correctly. Ensure the countertop is clear and that there aren't other appliances in the vicinity. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you intend to mount the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently using a hammer to find studs; when you hear a sound that is solid then you've found the nail. Once you've located the wall studs with a pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template for drilling holes, tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves made to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas have venting systems compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do for proper ventilation, like elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in microwave requires an assistant to hold the appliance while you fix it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, for instance lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and run the power cord through a hole made specifically for this purpose.