How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is set in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, can free space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. Installing them at a comfortable level and near other appliances such as the wall-mounted oven is easy.
Choose from a range of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes that will fit any kitchen. Find countertop, compact, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models help streamline mealtimes with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also feature an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes easier.
Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you'll use the microwave to cook larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. Choose a microwave that has more capacity to handle these larger items. For example a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is another important factor to take into account when choosing the right microwave. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves come with various power levels, allowing you to control the power output based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves are different according to the model. They include the exterior width and height as well as the interior capacity. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping as they provide a rough idea of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is provided separately and can help in determining the right model for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave may differ from model to. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is shut. Widths may be a little smaller to match standard cabinet cutout sizes and are in line with models that are over-the-range. The models vary in both height and depth however, all of them must be placed 12 inches or more above the stove to allow for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave measure the area where you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions that may be in the spot. Make sure that you leave at least 1 inch space between the wall and the microwave for ventilation and 3 inches of space between the edge of the countertop and the open door to avoid tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will work in the space. It is possible to integrate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. built microwave oven combo could be hung on the wall, positioned beneath the counter in a drawer configuration or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in a seamless appearance.
Selecting the right style of door is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models offer a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or the pull-out drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for users of all sizes and help to save counter space. In addition to these convenience features, some microwaves also have high-end features that can add a premium look and feel to your kitchen.
It is crucial to think about the wattage required for certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed at the back of the appliance. A model with more watts allows for faster cooking and reheating. 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 common methods to integrate a tiny built-in microwave is placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These types of microwaves are available in various prices, but are generally flush with the cabinet with a finished, integrated look. It is important to read the instructions and owner's manual for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Another option is to mount the microwave on a wall like in a nook or pantry. This can give a clean, streamlined appearance that can help to open the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate place for the microwave. But, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave must have adequate air clearance on each side as well as the back in order to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can be used to complete many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This will affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. In general the higher wattage models cook food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the other appliances and space. Additionally, you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space, yet still offer ample room inside for large glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also select from a range of control options that make cooking and heating food much easier and more efficient. For instance, you can go for models with sensor-cooking technology to make mealtime even more effortless. Features like tap-to-open and a slim, sleek design help you squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves integrated into cabinets or islands give your kitchen a modern look and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but allow you to be more creative in the design of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, making them easier to fit into tight spaces or corners.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will find out how much ventilation space you require in addition to the materials and tools needed to complete the task. Based on the model of your house the electrical system might require modification. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, make sure to shut off your home's power before starting work.
First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that might interfere with the proper placement of your microwave. Make sure the countertop is clean and that there are no other appliances within the vicinity. Use a stud-finder to locate the wall studs under the cabinet where you intend to mount the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you hear a distinct sound, you have found the right stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them using a pencil and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, you can tape it to the upper cabinet, to serve as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of how to go about venting, including raising your unit by a few inches or directing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance while you attach it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that can support the weight of the microwave, for instance lag bolts (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.