How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees the countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a suitable level and in close proximity to other appliances like a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Choose from a variety of door designs, including right-to-left swing-out or drop-down models that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Think about other options, too.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various dimensions and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Choose from compact, built-in, countertop microwaves and low-profile models. These models help streamline mealtimes by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models have an adjustable turntable which helps with loading and unloading.
Think about the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to cook larger serving ware such as platters or casseroles. Choose a microwave that has more capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire, for example, can accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave is its power level. Look for models with more watts which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to adjust the power output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary depending on the type. They are the exterior width and height as well as the interior capacity. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they provide a sense of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is separated and can assist in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside space of small built-in microwaves is different from model to model but the majority will have an overall dimension of 24 inches with the door closed. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to fit standard cabinet cutouts, and will be in line with over-the-range models. The depth and height vary between models, however all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove to allow ventilation.
Measure the area you want to put the microwave in and clear any obstructions. You should leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the open doors to prevent tipping.
Design
It is essential to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the space when selecting the most suitable small built-in microwave. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. It can be hung on the wall, placed under the counter with a drawer layout or even hidden within the cabinetry. This allows the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated look.
Selecting the right style of door is also an important consideration. A lot of microwave models have a right-to left swinging door or drop-down doors, or drawers. These options allow users of all heights to easily access the appliance and can help to save space on the countertop. In addition to these convenient features, certain microwaves feature premium features that can provide an elegant look and feel to your kitchen.
It is crucial to think about the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating in the back of the unit. A model with a higher wattage allows for quicker cooking and heating. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more energy efficient. However, they will take longer to cook or reheat food items.
One of the most common methods to integrate a tiny built-in microwave is installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but they generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a an elegant, integrated appearance. It is important to read the instruction manual and owner's manual for the microwave you are considering.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be placed in a nook or pantry. This will give the room an open, modern design that can help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the best placement. It is crucial to remember that the microwave must have sufficient air clearance on both side and the back to work effectively.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This will affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. Generally speaking, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have a sleek, streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with other appliances and space. integrated microwave oven can also find built-in microwaves that take up less room and still have enough space to accommodate tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also pick from a wide range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes even easier. 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 that are built into island and cabinet structures offer a sleek design that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation, but they do allow you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They are smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit into tight spaces and corners.
Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions for the model you pick. This should provide you with information about the amount of space needed for ventilation and what materials and tools are needed to make the installation successful. Based on the model of your home the electrical system could have to be modified. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to starting work.
First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could block the proper placement of your microwave. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and that there are no other appliances in the vicinity. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet you want to install the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to locate studs. If you hear a loud sound then you've found a good stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them using a pencil and a level. If your microwave came with an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet to serve as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves that are designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do in order to have proper ventilation, like raising the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet.
When installing a built-in microwave make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you secure it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and then run the power cord through a hole made for this purpose.