How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. Installing them at an appropriate position and close to other appliances like a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Choose from a variety door designs, including right-to-left swing-out models or drop-down ones that open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Other features are also worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes and capacities to fit any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop microwaves as well as low-profile microwaves. These models make mealtimes easier with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Certain models also come with a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes much easier.
Think about the size of your family and whether you'll use the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. For example the 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models with higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to control the heat output depending on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type and typically include the dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, in addition to interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are important as they provide you with an idea of what you can expect. The interior capacity of each model is separated and can assist in determining which model is best for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave will vary from model to model. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is closed. Widths may be a little smaller to be able to match standard cabinet cutout sizes and align with over-the-range models. Height and depth vary among models, but all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and clear any obstructions. 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 avoid tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is important to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen, including placing it on a wall, putting it under the counter in a drawer-style arrangement or even in the cabinetry. This way the appliance can blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated appearance.
Selecting the right style of door is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models offer doors that swing left-to-right, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options allow people of any height to easily access the appliance and can reduce the space needed for countertops. In addition to these practical features, certain microwaves have top-of-the-line features that can give an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.
It is also essential to keep in mind the power that is required to cook certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating in the back of the unit. A model that has a higher wattage allows for faster cooking and heating. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more energy efficient. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food.
One of the most popular ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but are generally flush with the cabinet with a finished, integrated look. It is essential to read the instruction manual and owner's manual for the microwave you are considering.
Installing the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean and sleek look that can help to open the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the best placement. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave needs adequate air clearance on each side and back for it to work properly.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficient than microwaves with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen they have a sleek, streamlined look that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. Moreover you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space and still provide plenty of space to accommodate tall glasses, large dishes and more.
You can also pick from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more efficient and less time-consuming. You can pick models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes more convenient. 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 integrated into cabinets or island structures give a sleek appearance and free up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation however, they allow you to be imaginative with your kitchen layout. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into corners and tight spaces.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This will provide details on how much space is needed for ventilation and what tools and materials are required to make the project successful. Based on the model of your home the electrical system might have to be modified. If you plan to install the system yourself, turn off the electrical power to your home prior beginning the work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet which could interfere with placing the microwave correctly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and no other appliances are within the space. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs under the cabinet where you plan to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. When you hear a sound that is solid it means you've located a wall stud. Once you have located the wall studs using pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, you can tape it over the upper cabinet to serve as a guide for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
built in single oven and microwave packages Ovens And Hobs designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will tell you what you need to do to ensure proper venting, like elevating your unit a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place as you secure it to the wall. It is best to use screws that will support the weight of the microwave, such as lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and run the power cord through a hole drilled for this purpose.