How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install at a level that is comfortable and near other kitchen appliances like a wall oven.
Choose from a variety of door designs. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Other features are also worth considering.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that will be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find one that suits your space. These models speed up meals by incorporating features like sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Certain models also come with a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Consider the size of your family and if you'll be using the microwave to heat larger serving ware such as platters or casseroles. Look for a microwave with a higher capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It has enough space to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another important factor when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models with higher wattage to cook food more quickly and more evenly. Some microwaves offer multiple power levels, allowing you to alter the heat output depending on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves are different depending on the type. They are the exterior width and height and the capacity inside. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping since they give you an idea of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is usually specified separately on each product page and could be useful in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave will vary from model to model. However, most models will have a width of about 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of certain models might be a bit smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and align with models that are over the range. Height and depth vary between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like it to be and remove any obstructions from the area. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch of space between the wall and the microwave to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the edge of the countertop and the open 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 space when selecting the most suitable small built-in microwave. There are many ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including placing it on a wall, placing it underneath the countertop in a drawer configuration or even recessed into cabinetry. This way the appliance can blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated look.
The right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. A lot of microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right or drop-down doors, or a drawer. These options allow users of any height to access the appliance, and also help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have various high-end features to give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is essential to consider the wattage required for certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed at the back of the appliance. Choosing microwave and oven built in combo with more watts will allow for faster cooking and reheating of food items. While there are some models that have lower wattage ratings for those who want an energy-efficient choice, it is important to remember that they will generally take longer to cook and reheat foods.
Installing a small microwave in an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to integrate it. These types of microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but are generally 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 nook or pantry. This will give the room an open, modern look which will help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the best place for the microwave. 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 are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to complete a variety of tasks quickly and easily. The power level of microwaves is measured in watts, and this can affect the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. In general the higher wattage models heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have an elegant, sleek design that blends seamlessly with your other appliances and space. Moreover you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space and still provide ample room inside for tall glasses, large dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a variety of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more simple and convenient. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes easier. Other features include doors that open 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 removes the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. They typically require professional installation but they do allow you to be imaginative in the layout of your kitchen. They also require less space 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. This should give you information on how much space is needed for ventilation and the materials and tools needed to make the installation a success. Depending on the model, your home's electrical system might need to be altered for installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to turn off your home's power before starting work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could hinder placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and there are no other appliances in the area. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet where you plan to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a solid noise, you have found an appropriate stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them using a pencil and a level. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, then tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets come with venting systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do in order to have proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a built-in microwave, have an assistant hold the appliance in place as you secure it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of the 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.