How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install at a level that is comfortable and near other kitchen appliances, like an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety of door styles. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes that will accommodate any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models help streamline mealtimes with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also feature a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Think about the size of your household and if you'll be using the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with a higher capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire, for example, has enough space to accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is another important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave. Choose models with higher wattage, which cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves have different power settings, which means you can alter the heat output based on the food you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and typically include exterior width, height and depth, as well as the capacity inside. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping as they provide an idea of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is provided separately and can help in determining the best model for your home.
The interior of a small built-in microwave will vary between models. However, the majority of models will have a width of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths could be a bit smaller to fit standard cabinet cutout sizes and align with over-the-range models. Models differ in height and depth, however, they all need to be mounted 12 inches or more above the stove to allow air circulation.
Measure the area you want to put the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge 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 design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It can be mounted on the wall, set under the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in an elegant appearance.
Choosing the right door style is also an important consideration. Many microwave models have an open swinging door from right to left, drop down doors or a drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for people of all sizes and reduce counter space. In addition to these convenient features, some microwaves also come with high-end features that can add the look and feel of a luxury to the kitchen.
It is also essential to keep in mind the power needed for cooking certain meals. The back of most microwaves will display the power rating. Choosing a model with more watts will allow for faster cooking and heating of food. 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 ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These types of microwaves can be found at various prices, but they generally sit close to the cabinet and have a finished, integrated look. It is important to read the instruction manual and owner's manual for the microwave you're considering.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be installed in a pantry or nook. This can create an open, modern look that can help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with homeowners to determine the best placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides and back to perform properly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can be used to complete a variety of tasks quickly and easily. in built microwave of a microwave is measured in watts and this can affect the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. In general higher wattage models heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are installed into your kitchen's cabinets, and this gives them a streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with the other appliances and space. Additionally there are built-in models designed to take up less space but still have ample room inside for large glasses, wide dishes and other items.
You can also choose from a wide range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes even easier. Features like tap-to-open and slim, sleek designs help you squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and island structures provide a sleek look and free up valuable counter space. They generally require professional installation but they do permit you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to tight spaces or corners.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. You will be able to determine the amount of ventilation space you need, as well as the materials and tools needed to complete the job. Based on the model, your home's electrical system might need to be modified for the installation. If you are planning to install the system yourself, switch off the electricity to your home prior to beginning work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could hinder the microwave from being placed correctly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that there aren't any other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you intend to place the microwave. in built microwave can also use a hammer to tap the wall to find studs. If you hear a solid noise it means you've located the right stud. After you've found the wall studs using pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, tape it to the upper cabinet to act as a guideline for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do for proper ventilation, like elevating the unit a few inches or routing the 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 in place while you fasten it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of your built-in microwave, for instance lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall using these and snake the power cord through a hole made specifically for this purpose.