How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees up space on your countertop and creates a seamless look. It's also easy to install at a level that is comfortable and close to other kitchen appliances, like an oven on the wall.
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 cabinet drawer. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that can fit into any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find one that will fit your space. These models help streamline mealtimes by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that can save counter space. Some models also feature a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Think about the size of your family and whether you will use the microwave to heat larger serving ware such as casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with more capacity to handle these larger items. For instance, an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
Another important factor when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with multiple power settings, so you can adjust the heat output based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves are different depending on the type. They are the exterior width and height, as well as the capacity inside. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they provide an idea of what to expect. However, the interior capacity is usually listed separately on each product page and could be helpful in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave can vary from model to. However, most models will have a width of 24 inches when the door is closed. Widths may be a little smaller to be able to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and are in line with models that are over-the-range. The depth and height vary between models, however all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow 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 area. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge and the door to prevent tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is important to consider 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. It can be mounted on the wall, positioned beneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed within the cabinetry. This way the appliance can be integrated with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated look.
The design of the door is also important. Many microwave models come with an open swinging door from right to left or drop-down doors, or drawers. These options allow easy access to the appliance for people of all heights and can reduce counter space. In addition to these convenient features, some microwaves feature premium features that can provide the look and feel of a luxury to your kitchen.
It is also essential to remember the power that will be required to cook certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating at the back of the appliance. A model that has a higher wattage allows for quicker cooking and reheating. Although there are some models with lower wattage ratings for those who want an energy-efficient alternative, it is important to keep in mind that they will generally take longer to cook and heat food items.
One of the most popular methods to integrate a tiny built in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at a wide range of price points but generally sit flush with the cabinet with an elegant, integrated appearance. To make sure the installation will function properly, it is essential to look at the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model that you are looking at.
Another option is to mount the microwave on a wall, such as in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern design that will help to make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer can collaborate with homeowners to determine the most suitable place for the microwave. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave requires sufficient air clearance on both side and back to function properly.
Power
Microwaves are a versatile kitchen appliance that can perform a variety of tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. Generally speaking, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more effectively than models with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets in your kitchen and have an elegant, modern 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 but still have plenty of space for tall glasses, large dishes and other items.
You can also select from a range of control options that make cooking and heating food easier and more efficient. For instance, you can go for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make eating simple. Tap-to-open functions and slim, sleek designs allow you to easily squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that takes the appliance off your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but permit you to be more creative with the design of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, which makes them easier to fit into corners or spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you select. This should give you information on how much space is required for ventilation and what materials and tools are needed to make the installation successful. Depending on the model of your home, the electrical system may have to be modified. If oven with integrated microwave are planning to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electrical power to your home prior starting 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 there aren't any other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud-finder tool to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet where you intend to mount the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs; when you hear a sound that is solid, you've found a stud. Once you have located the wall studs using pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
The majority of microwaves made to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do in order to have proper ventilation, for instance raising the unit by a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through a wall, cabinet, or island.
When installing a built-in microwave make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you attach it to the wall. It is best to use screws that can support the weight of the microwave, like lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the plate in place to the wall. The power cord can be pulled through an opening that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.