How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinets, or under the counter, frees space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. It's also simple to put them at a comfortable height and close to other kitchen appliances like an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in different sizes and capacities that can work in any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find a model that suits your space. These models help streamline mealtimes with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that can save counter space. Some models have a retractable turntable which makes loading and unloading easier.
Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to heat up larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to handle these larger items. For instance an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another important factor when choosing a microwave is the power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves have various power settings, meaning that you can alter the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and typically include dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, as well as the capacity inside. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping since they provide an idea of what you can expect. The interior capacity of each model is provided separately and can help in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary from model to. However, most models will have a diameter of about 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of some models might be a little 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 installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, measure the area where you'd like it to be and remove any obstructions from the space. You should 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 open doors to avoid tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. You can incorporate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It could be hung on the wall, positioned under the counter with a drawer layout or even hidden within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, giving an elegant appearance.
Choosing the right door style is also an important consideration. Many microwave models have a right-to left swinging door or drop-down doors, or a drawer. These options allow users of all heights to easily access the appliance and can save valuable countertop space. Certain microwaves are equipped with many top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is crucial to think about the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating in the back of the appliance. A model that has a more watts will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food items. 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 methods to integrate a tiny built-in microwave is by installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available in a wide range of price points but generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a a finished, integrated look. To make sure the installation will work correctly, it is essential to study the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation of the microwave model you're contemplating.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is another option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern design that can help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the best placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on both side and back in order to perform properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to complete various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts, and this affects the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. Generally speaking, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have an elegant, sleek look that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that take up less room and still have enough space inside for tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also choose from a wide range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easy. You can select models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes more convenient. Features like tap-to-open and a slim, sleek design help you fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or islands give your kitchen a modern appearance and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but let you be more creative in the design of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to tight spaces or corners.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. This should give you information on the amount of space needed to allow for ventilation, as well as what tools and materials are needed to make the installation successful. Based on the model of your home, the electrical system may need to be altered. If you plan to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the power to your home before beginning the work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that may interfere with placing the microwave 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 find the wall studs under the cabinet where you intend to install the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. When built in microwaves hear a loud sound, you have found an appropriate stud. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them with an eraser and a level. If your microwave included an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it to the upper cabinet to act as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of what you need to do to ensure proper venting, like elevating your unit a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
When installing a built-in microwave make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you secure it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of the microwave, for instance lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and then run the power cord through a hole that has been made specifically for this purpose.