How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet, or under the counter, frees up valuable space and creates a seamless kitchen appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances, such as the wall-mounted oven is simple.
Choose from a variety of door designs. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other features are also worth considering.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide variety of sizes and capacities to suit any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find a model that is suitable for your space. They can speed up meals with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Certain models also come with an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes much easier.
Think about the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to heat up larger serving ware like casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with the capacity to handle these larger items. For instance an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another important factor when choosing a microwave is the power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves offer different power levels, which allows you to control the heat output depending on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type, and usually include the exterior width, height and depth, in addition to interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are useful because they provide a sense of what to expect. However, the interior capacity is usually specified separately on each product page and can be more helpful in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary from model to model. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of about 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths could be a bit smaller to be able to match the standard dimensions of cutouts for cabinets and match models from over-the-range. The depth and height vary among models, but all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave take a measurement of the space you'd like to place it and remove any obstructions from the space. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch space between the wall and the microwave for ventilation and 3 inches between the edge of the countertop and the doorway to avoid tipping.
Design
It is crucial to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the space when selecting the best small built-in microwave. There are a variety of options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen. These include placing it on a wall, placing it underneath the counter in a drawer-style configuration or even in the cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated look.
The style of the door is also important. 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 people of any height to easily access the appliance and save valuable countertop space. In addition to these convenience features, some microwaves also have high-end features that can add a premium look and feel to the kitchen.
It is crucial to think about the wattage required for certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. Selecting a model with a more watts will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food items. There are models with lower wattage ratings which are more efficient in energy use. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food items.
One of the most popular methods to integrate a tiny 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 close to the cabinet and have an elegant, integrated appearance. It is important to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Another option is to put the microwave on a wall, for example, in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern design that can help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate location. However, it is important to remember that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on each side and back in order to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets of your kitchen they have an elegant, modern design that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that require less space, but still provide enough space inside for large glasses and dishes.
You can also select from a variety of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easier. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes more convenient. Other features include tap-to-open doors and a slim, sleek design that makes them easier to fit into tight spaces.
link home integrated into cabinets or island structures give a sleek appearance and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but let you create a more unique layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into tight spaces and corners.
Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions for the model you choose. This should give you information about the amount of space needed for ventilation and what materials and tools are required to make the project a success. Depending on the type of your house, the electrical system may require modification. If you plan to install the system yourself, turn off the electricity to your home prior to beginning work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet which could hinder the microwave from being placed properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and that there are no other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs under the cabinet in which you plan to install the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently with a hammer to locate studs; when you hear a sound that is solid, you've found the nail. Once you've found the locations of wall studs, mark them using an eraser and a level. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template for drilling holes, 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, 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 will require an assistant to hold the appliance when you connect it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall using these and snake the power cord through a hole drilled specifically for this purpose.