How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also simple to set at a level that is comfortable and close to other kitchen appliances, like an oven that is wall mounted.
Choose from a range of door designs. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth looking into.
built in microwave oven come in a wide variety of sizes and capacities to fit any kitchen. Choose from compact, built-in, countertop microwaves as well as low-profile microwaves. These models streamline mealtimes by offering features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models have an adjustable turntable that allows loading and unloading to be done more easily.
Consider the size of your family and if you'll use the microwave to heat larger serving ware such as casseroles or platters. Choose a microwave that has more capacity to handle these larger items. For instance a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
The power level is another important factor to consider when selecting the right microwave. You should look for models that have higher wattage that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with various power settings, meaning that you can adjust the amount of heat produced based on what you are cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ according to the model. They are the exterior width and height as well as the capacity inside. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are important because they give you an idea of what you can expect. The interior capacity of each model is separated and can help in determining the best model for your home.
The interior of a small built-in microwave may differ between models. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over the range models. Models differ in height and depth, but all must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions from the space. 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 important to consider the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will work in the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen. These include placing it on a wall, placing it underneath the counter in a drawer-style configuration or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, giving an elegant appearance.
The right door style is also an important consideration. A lot of microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right or drop-down doors, or drawers. These options allow people of all heights to easily access the appliance, and also help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves are equipped with various top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is important to consider the amount of power needed for certain meals. The back of most microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has a more watts will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more energy efficient. However, they will take longer to cook or reheat food items.
Installing a small, built-in microwave inside an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves are available at a variety of price points and are able to be placed flush against the cabinet for a finished look. To make sure the installation will work correctly, it is essential to look at the owner's manual and installation instructions for the microwave model you are looking at.
The microwave can be mounted on the wall is an alternative option. This can be placed in a pantry or nook. This can give a clean, streamlined appearance that can aid in opening the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most suitable location. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave requires adequate air clearance on each side and back for it to function correctly.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of a microwave is measured in watts, and this affects the speed at which it cooks food. In general, microwaves with higher watts can heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets in your kitchen they have an elegant, sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with your other appliances and space. Additionally there are built-in models designed to take up less space and still provide plenty of space to accommodate tall glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a variety of control options to make cooking and warming food more efficient and easier. You can choose models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes more convenient. Other features include tap-to-open doors and a sleek, slim design that makes them easier to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and islands give your kitchen a modern appearance and free up valuable counter space. They generally require professional installation however, they permit you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, which makes them more suited to corners or spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you choose. You will be able to determine the amount of airflow you will require and the tools and materials required to complete the task. Depending on the type of your house the electrical system could need to be altered. If you plan to install the system yourself, switch off the power to your home before starting work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that might interfere with placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is clean and there aren't other appliances around. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs under the cabinet in which you plan to mount the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently using a hammer to find studs; when you hear a distinct sound it means you've located an wall stud. Once you have located the wall studs using the pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If microwave oven builtin included a cardboard template, tape it to the upper cabinet to serve as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves that are designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas have venting systems compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do to ensure proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to hold the appliance while you connect it to the wall. It is best to use screws that can support the weight of your built-in microwave, like lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these and snake the power cord through a hole that has been made for this purpose.