How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or under your counter, frees space on your counter and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a suitable position and close to other appliances such as a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Select from a range of door designs, including right-to-left swing-out models or drop-down ones that open in the same manner as a cabinet drawer. Also, think about other features.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that can be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Find countertop, compact or low-profile microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models make mealtimes easier by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also have an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes much easier.
When shopping, take into consideration the size of your family, and whether you'll be using the microwave for larger serveware, such as platters or casseroles. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. For example, a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave is the power level. Look for models with more watts, which cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves offer multiple power levels, allowing you to adjust the power output based on the food you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and usually include the exterior width, height and depth, in addition to the capacity inside. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are helpful because they provide an idea of what you can expect. However, the capacity inside is typically listed separately on each product page, and can be helpful in determining which model is right for your home.
The interior of a small built-in microwave may differ from model to model. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of certain models might be a little smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over-the-range models. Models vary in depth and height, however, all of them must be placed 12 inches or more above the stove to allow air circulation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions that may be in the area. You should 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 crucial 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 a variety of ways. It could be hung on the wall, placed under the counter in a drawer configuration or even hidden within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, creating a seamless look.
Choosing the right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models have a right-to left swinging door dropping down doors, drop down doors or drawers. These options make it easy to gain access to the appliance for people of all heights and can save valuable counter space. Some microwaves come with many premium features that give the kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is also important to be aware of the amount of power needed to cook certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food.
One of the most common ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is installing it within an existing cabinet. The microwaves are available in different prices however they are placed in a flush position against the cabinet to give it an elegant look. To ensure that the installation will work correctly it is crucial to read the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation for the microwave model that you are considering.
Another option is to mount the microwave on the wall, like in a nook or pantry. This will give the kitchen a neat, streamlined appearance that can help open the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can collaborate with homeowners to determine the most appropriate location. It is essential to remember that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides and back to function correctly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to complete many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This will affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves can heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are incorporated into your kitchen's cabinets, which gives them a streamlined appearance that blends seamlessly with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore, combination microwave oven built in can find built-in models designed to take up less space but still have plenty of space for tall glasses, wide dishes and other items.
You can also pick from a range of control options that make cooking and heating food much more convenient and easy. You can select models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes more convenient. Features like tap-to-open and a slim, sleek design allow you to easily fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or island structures give a sleek look and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but let you create a more unique design of your kitchen. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to small spaces or corners.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will find out how much ventilation space you need in addition to the tools and materials needed to complete the task. Depending on the type of your home the electrical system could have to be modified. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to beginning work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that might interfere with placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is clean and there aren't other appliances around. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you intend to install the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently using a hammer to find studs; when you hear a distinct sound it means you've located a stud. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them using a pencil and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, tape it to the upper cabinet to act as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets have venting systems that can be used 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 the ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
Installing a built-in oven requires an assistant to hold the appliance when you fix it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and run the power cord through a hole that has been made specifically for this purpose.