How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and in close proximity to other appliances like the wall-mounted oven is easy.
Choose from a variety of door designs, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Also, think about other features.
integrated microwave are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes to suit any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop or low-profile microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. They can speed up meals by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Certain models also come with a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
Consider the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to cook larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It can accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is an additional important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food more quickly and more evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to alter the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and typically include exterior width, height and depth, as well as interior capacity. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they give you a sense of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is listed separately and can help in determining the best model for your home.
The space inside a small built in microwave differs from model to, but most will have an overall diameter that is around 24 inches with the door closed. The widths of some models might be a bit smaller than standard cabinet cutouts, and will be in line with over the range models. The depth and height vary between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Make sure that you leave at least 1 inch space between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches between the edge of the countertop and the doorway to avoid tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is essential to think about the overall kitchen design 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 hung on the wall, set under the counter in a drawer configuration or even hidden within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, giving an aesthetically pleasing look.
The design of the door is equally important. Many microwave models offer a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or the pull-out drawer. These options allow people of all heights to easily access the appliance, and also reduce the space needed for countertops. In addition to these practical features, some microwaves also feature premium features that can provide the look and feel of a luxury to your kitchen.
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 a model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food items. While there are a few models that have lower wattage ratings for those seeking an energy-efficient choice, it is important to remember that these models typically take longer to cook and reheat foods.
Installing a small microwave inside an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it. These microwaves can be found at various prices, but are generally flush with the cabinet with an elegant, integrated appearance. It is crucial to read the instructions and owner's guide for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern appearance that can help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the best placement. However, it is important to remember that the microwave must have sufficient air clearance on each side and the back in order to perform effectively.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can carry out many tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This will affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, microwaves with higher watts will cook food faster and more efficient than microwaves with lower watts.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, and this gives them a streamlined appearance that blends seamlessly with the rest of your appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that require less space, but still provide enough space inside for tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also select from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easy. You can choose models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes more convenient. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a slim, sleek design that makes them easier to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that removes the appliance from your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves generally require professional installation but they do permit you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, which makes them easier to fit into small spaces or corners.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. You will learn how much ventilation space you require, as well as the tools and materials needed to complete the task. Depending on the type of your home the electrical system could need to be altered. If you intend to install the system yourself, switch off the power to your home before beginning work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could block placing your microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there are no other appliances in the area. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet where you plan to place the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. If built in oven and microwave can hear a solid sound then you've found a stud. Once you have located the wall studs using pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave came with an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet, to serve as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do to ensure proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through a wall, cabinet, or island.
Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to support the appliance as you attach it to the wall. Screws that can support the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will secure the mounting plate to your wall. The power cord can be snagged through the hole specially drilled for this purpose.