How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also simple to set them at a comfortable height and close to other kitchen appliances like a wall oven.
Choose from a variety door designs, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models which open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Other features are also worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes that will fit any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop microwaves and low-profile models. They can speed up meals by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that can save space on the counter. Some models also have a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Take into consideration the size of your family and if you'll use the microwave to heat larger serving ware like casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with more capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire, for example, is large enough to hold large dinner plates and platters.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a microwave is the power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food more quickly and more evenly. Some microwaves come with multiple power settings, so you can adjust the power output according to 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. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they give you a sense of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is usually specified separately on each product page and can be more efficient in determining which model is right for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave may differ from model to model. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of about 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of some models might be a little smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and align with over the range models. The depth and height vary between models, but all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches above the stove to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave take a measurement of the space you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions that may be in the spot. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.
Design
It is crucial to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. You can incorporate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. It can be hung on the wall, placed beneath the counter in a drawer configuration or even recessed within the cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to be integrated with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated appearance.
Choosing the right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models offer doors that swing from left to right, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for users of all heights and can save valuable counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with a variety of high-end features to give the kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is important to consider the amount of power needed for certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has a greater wattage will enable faster cooking and reheating of food. Although there are some models available with lower wattage ratings for those seeking a more energy-efficient option, it is important to remember that these will typically take longer to cook and reheat food items.
Installing a small built-in microwave into an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it. These types of microwaves can be found at various prices, but they generally sit flush with the cabinet with a finished, integrated look. It is crucial to read the instruction manual and owner's manual for the microwave you're considering.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean sleek appearance that will help open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and the back to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to complete a wide range of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. see this will affect the speed at which food is cooked. In general higher wattage models heat food quicker and more effectively than models with lower watts.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are incorporated into your kitchen's cabinets, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that take up less space, but still provide enough space to accommodate tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also select from a wide range of control options that make cooking and heating food easier and more efficient. You can select models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes more convenient. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a sleek, slim design that makes it easier to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or island structures provide a sleek look and free up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves generally require professional installation however they do permit you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They also consume less space than freestanding microwaves, making them easier to fit into tight spaces or corners.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. This should provide you with information on how much space is required for ventilation as well as the materials and tools required to make the project a success. Depending on the model of your home, the electrical system may have to be modified. If you're planning on doing the installation yourself, make sure to shut off your home's power before starting work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could hinder the microwave from being placed properly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that there are no other appliances within the space. Use a stud-finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you plan to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently with a hammer in order to locate studs. If you can hear a sound that is solid it means you've located the wall stud. Once you've found the locations of wall studs, mark them off with an eraser and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, you can tape it over the upper cabinet to serve as a guideline for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves made to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas come with ventilation systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do to ensure proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you secure it to the wall. It is best to use screws that can support the weight of the built-in microwave, such as lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the plate that is mounted to your wall. The power cord can be snagged through a hole that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.