How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or under your counter frees the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install at a level that is comfortable and near other kitchen appliances like an oven on the wall.
Select from a variety of door styles. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes and capacities to fit any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find a model that suits your space. These models speed up meals with features like 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 a breeze.
Think about the size of your family and whether you will use the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. Consider a microwave with a higher capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, has enough space to accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is an additional important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave. Look for models with greater wattage which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with different power levels, which allows you to control the power output based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary depending on the type. built in microwave ovens are the height and width on the outside as well as the capacity inside. When shopping, exterior sizes are helpful as they provide you with an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is listed separately and can be helpful in determining the right model for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave can vary from model to model. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of some models may be slightly smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and align with models that are over the range. The height and depth differ between models, however all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches higher than the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave take a measurement of the space you'd like it to be and clear any obstructions in the space. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge and the door to prevent tipping.
Design
It is important to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the kitchen when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It can be hung on the wall, placed underneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed within the cabinetry. This allows the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated appearance.
The right door style is a crucial aspect to consider. Many microwave models offer doors that swing from left to right, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options allow people of any height to easily access the appliance, and also save valuable countertop space. In addition to these convenient features, certain microwaves feature top-of-the-line features that can give an elegant look and feel to your kitchen.
It is also important to be aware of the power that is required for cooking certain meals. The back of many microwaves will display the power rating. A model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more efficient in energy use. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food.
One of the most popular methods to integrate a tiny built-in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at different prices however they are placed right against the cabinet for a finished look. To make sure the installation will function properly it is important to study the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation for the microwave model you are considering.
Another option is to put the microwave on a wall for example, in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean, streamlined appearance that can help open the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the best placement. But, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on each side and back for it to perform effectively.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can be used to complete many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This will affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. In general, microwaves with higher watts can heat food faster and more efficient than microwaves with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are fitted within the cabinets of your kitchen, and this creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that require less room and still have enough space inside for tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also pick from a range of control options that make cooking and heating food much easier and more efficient. You can choose models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes easier. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a sleek, slim design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that takes the appliance off your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models typically require professional installation however they do permit you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to tight spaces or corners.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you select. This should provide you with information about how much space is needed for ventilation and what tools and materials are needed to make the installation successful. Depending on the type of your home the electrical system might require modification. If you plan to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electrical power to your home prior starting work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that could block placing your microwave in the correct place. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are in the area. Use a stud-finder to locate the wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you plan to install the microwave. You can tap the wall using a hammer to find studs; when you hear a solid sound, you've found the nail. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them off with an eraser and a level. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do in order to have proper ventilation, like elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet, or even an island.
Installing a built-in oven requires an assistant to hold the appliance when you fix it to the wall. It is best to use screws that can support the weight of your built-in microwave, such as lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will hold the mounting plate to the wall. The power cord can be snagged through a hole that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.