How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinets, or under the counter, frees up space and creates a seamless kitchen appearance. It's also simple to put at a height that is comfortable and in close proximity to other kitchen appliances, like an oven that is wall mounted.
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 cabinet drawer. Other options are worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various dimensions and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Find countertop, compact or low-profile microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. They can speed up meals by incorporating features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models come with an adjustable turntable which helps with loading and unloading.
Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to heat up larger serving ware such as casseroles or platters. Choose a microwave that has a higher capacity to handle these larger items. For instance, the 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
The power level is an additional important factor to consider when choosing a microwave. Choose models with higher wattage that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves offer various power settings, meaning that you can adjust the heat output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ depending on the type. They include the exterior width and height as well as the capacity inside. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping as they give you an idea of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is separated and can be helpful in determining the best model for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave can vary between models. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of about 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to fit standard cabinet cutouts and align with models that are over the range. The height and depth differ among models, but all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to put the microwave in and clear any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch space between the microwave and wall to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the open door to prevent tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is crucial to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. There are many options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen including mounting it on the wall, placing it underneath the counter in a drawer-style configuration or even recessed into cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated look.
Selecting the right style of door is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models offer a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or an open drawer. ovens with built in microwave allow people of all heights to easily access the appliance and can save valuable countertop space. Certain microwaves have many premium features that give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also essential to keep in mind the power that will be required to cook certain meals. The back of most microwaves will show the power rating. A model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more energy efficient. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food.
Installing a small built-in microwave in an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves are available in various price points but generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a a finished, integrated look. To ensure that the installation will function properly it is important to read the owner's manual and installation instructions for the microwave model you are contemplating.
Another option is to place the microwave on a wall, such as in a pantry or nook. This can create an open, modern look which will help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate place for the microwave. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave must have adequate air clearance on each side as well as the back in order to perform properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to complete many 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 can heat food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have a sleek, streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with other appliances and space. Additionally there are built-in models designed to use less space but still have ample room inside for tall glasses, wide dishes and other items.
You can also select from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more convenient and easy. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes easier. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design allow you to easily squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that removes the appliance from your counters, thereby freeing up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation however, they allow you to be imaginative with your kitchen layout. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, which makes them easier to fit into corners or spaces that are tight.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will be able to determine the amount of ventilation space you need, as well as the tools and materials required to complete the task. Based on the model, your home's electrical system might have to be altered for installation. If you intend to install the system yourself, switch off the power to your home before beginning the work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that could hinder placing your microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and no other appliances are within the space. Use a stud-finder to locate the wall studs beneath the cabinet you want to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a solid noise it means you've located an appropriate stud. After you've found the wall studs with a pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave comes with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, then tape it to the upper cabinet.
The majority of microwaves designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed spaces have ventilation systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do in order to have proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet, or even an island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place as you attach it to the wall. It is best to use screws that are able to support the weight of your built-in microwave, such as lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these and snake the power cord through a hole that has been made to serve this purpose.