How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at an appropriate level and in close proximity to other appliances like an oven that is wall-mounted is easy.
Choose from a range of door styles. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer for cabinets. Also, think about other features.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various dimensions and capacities that will fit into any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop microwaves as well as low-profile microwaves. These models can help you cut down on meal time by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models come with an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading easier.
Think about the size of your household and whether you will use the microwave to cook larger serving ware such as casseroles or platters. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It can accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a microwave is the power level. Choose models with greater wattage, which cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with different power levels, which allows you to alter the power output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type, and usually include the exterior width, height and depth, along with interior capacity. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are useful because they provide an idea of what you can expect. However, the capacity inside is typically described separately on each page, and can be helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The interior of a small built-in microwave will vary from model to. However, most models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of some models may be slightly smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and align with over the range models. The models vary in both height and depth but all must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, take a measurement of the space you'd like it to be and clear any obstructions in the spot. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the open doors to prevent tipping.
Design
It is essential to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the kitchen when selecting the most suitable small built-in microwave. There are many options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen, including placing it on a wall, or placing it beneath the countertop in a drawer-style configuration or even recessed into cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, creating an elegant appearance.
The style of the door is equally important. Many microwave models have a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or the pull-out drawer. These options allow people of any height to access the appliance, and also help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have many premium features that give the kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is also important to keep in mind the amount of wattage needed for cooking certain meals. The back of most microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has a higher wattage allows for quicker cooking and heating. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more efficient in energy use. However, they will take longer to cook or reheat food items.
One of the most common ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is by installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at different prices, but they sit flush against the cabinet for a finished look. To make sure the installation will work correctly, it is essential to read the owner's manual as well as installation instructions for the microwave model you're looking at.
Another option is to place the microwave on a wall for example, in a nook or pantry. This can create an open, modern appearance that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the most effective place for the microwave. It is essential to remember that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and back to perform correctly.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will cook food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are incorporated into your kitchen's cabinets, which gives them a streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore, you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space but still have plenty of space for large glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food easier and more efficient. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes more convenient. Other features include tap-to-open doors 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, allowing valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you be more creative in the design of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into corners and spaces that are tight.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will find out how much ventilation space you require, as well as the tools and materials required to complete the job. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be modified for the installation. If you plan to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electrical power to your home prior starting work.
First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that might interfere with placing your microwave in the correct place. Make built in single oven and microwave packages that the countertop is free of clutter and that there are no other appliances around. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet where you plan to install the microwave. You can also use a hammer or tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a solid noise then you've found the right stud. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them off with an eraser and a level. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will tell you what to do for proper venting, including raising your unit by a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes along the exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a built-in microwave ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place while you fasten it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that can support the weight of the microwave, such as lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the mounting plate to your wall. The power cord can be snagged through a hole that has been specifically drilled for this purpose.