How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinets, or under the counter, can free 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, such as an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety of door styles, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models that open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Think about double ovens with built in microwave , too.
Capacity
Microwaves come in a wide range of capacities and sizes that will accommodate any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact or low-profile microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models help streamline mealtimes with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Certain models also come with a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes much easier.
Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you will use the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, is large enough to hold 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 faster and evenly. Some microwaves offer various power levels, allowing you to adjust the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves are different according to the model. They include the height and width on the outside and the interior capacity. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping as they give you an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is separated and can help in determining which model is best for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave will vary from model to. However, most models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of some models might be a little smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over the range models. The height and depth differ between models, but all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions that may be in the area. You should leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the door to prevent 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. You can incorporate the appliance into your kitchen in a variety of ways. It could be hung on the wall, positioned under the counter in a drawer configuration or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in a seamless look.
Choosing the right door style is also an important consideration. Many microwave models have doors that swing from left to right dropping doors, drop-down doors, or the pull-out drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for users of all sizes and save valuable counter space. In addition to these convenient features, some microwaves also feature top-of-the-line features that can give an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.
It is also important to keep in mind the amount of power needed for cooking certain meals. The back of many microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has a more watts will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food items. While there are some models available with lower wattage ratings for those seeking an energy-efficient choice but it is important to keep in mind that these models typically take longer to cook and reheat food items.
One of the most common methods to integrate a tiny built in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but are generally flush with the cabinet with a finished, integrated look. It is essential to read the instructions and owner's guide for the microwave you are considering.
Installing the microwave on the wall is another option. This can be placed in a nook or pantry. This will give the room an open, modern design that can help make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with homeowners to determine the most suitable place for the microwave. It is essential to keep in mind that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides as well as the back to perform correctly.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can carry out various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves can heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Built-in microwaves are incorporated into the cabinets in your kitchen they have an elegant, modern appearance that seamlessly blends with your other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that take up less space, but still provide enough space to accommodate large glasses and dishes.
You can also choose from a wide range of options for control that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. For instance, you can go for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make eating easy. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design help you fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into the cabinets and island structures provide a sleek look that removes the appliance from your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. They typically require professional installation, but they do permit you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into corners and spaces that are tight.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This should provide you with information on how much space is required for ventilation as well as what tools and materials are needed to make the installation successful. Depending on the type of your home the electrical system might have to be modified. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to beginning work.
First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that could block the proper placement of your microwave. Ensure the countertop is clear and that there aren't other appliances around. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet where you plan to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to locate studs. If you can hear a solid noise then you've found the right stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them with the help of a pencil and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, you can tape it to the upper cabinet to serve as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do in order to have proper ventilation, like elevating the unit a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet, or even an island.
When installing a built-in microwave, have an assistant hold the appliance while you fasten it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of your microwave are recommended, for instance lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and run the power cord through a hole that has been made for this purpose.