How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter, frees space on your counter and gives a seamless appearance. It's also simple to set them at a comfortable height and near other kitchen appliances like a wall oven.
Choose from a variety of door designs, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other features are also worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes to fit any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop or low-profile microwaves to find one that is suitable for your space. These models make mealtimes easier with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that can save counter space. Some models come with a retractable turntable which makes loading and unloading easier.
Take into consideration the size of your family and if you'll use the microwave to heat up larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. Consider a microwave with a higher capacity to handle these larger items. For instance, a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is another important factor to take into account when selecting a microwave. You should look for models that have more watts which cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to adjust the amount of heat produced based on the food you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and usually include the exterior width, height and depth, along with the interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are useful as they provide you with a sense of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is usually specified separately on each product page and can be more efficient in determining which model is best for your home.
The interior space of a microwave built-in is different from model to model however, most will have an overall dimension of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of some models may be slightly smaller than standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over-the-range models. The depth and height vary between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches above the stove to allow for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave determine the area you'd like to put it and clear any obstructions in the area. Make sure that you leave at least 1 inch of space between the wall and the microwave to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the door that is open to prevent tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is essential to think about the overall kitchen design and how the appliance will fit into the space. There are a variety of options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen, including placing it on a wall, or placing it beneath the counter in a drawer-style arrangement, or even recessed into cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated appearance.
oven with integrated microwave of the door is equally important. Many microwave models offer doors that swing from left to right dropping doors, drop-down doors, or the pull-out drawer. These options allow users of any height to access the appliance and can save valuable countertop space. Certain microwaves are equipped with a variety of premium features that give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also important to be aware of the power that is required for cooking certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. A model that has a higher wattage will allow for faster cooking and reheating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food items.
Installing microwave integrated , built-in microwave into an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it. These microwaves are available at a variety of price points and are able to be placed flush against the cabinet for a finished look. To ensure that the installation will function properly it is important to read the owner's manual and instructions for installation for the microwave model you are contemplating.
Another option is to place the microwave on the wall, such as in a pantry or nook. This will give the kitchen a neat and sleek look that can help open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate location. It is crucial to remember that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on each side as well as the back for it to function effectively.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of a microwave is measured in watts, and this can affect how fast and evenly it cooks food. Generally speaking the higher wattage models cook food faster and more effectively than lower wattage models.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are incorporated into your kitchen's cabinets, and this provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore there are built-in models designed to use less space and still provide plenty of space for tall glasses, large dishes and more.
You can also select from a wide range of control options that make cooking and heating food more simple and convenient. You can pick models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes even easier. Tap-to-open functions and a slim, sleek design help you squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves 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 create a more unique design of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit them into corners and spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you select. You will learn how much ventilation space you need and the tools and materials required to complete the task. Based on the model, your home's electrical system might need to be modified for the installation. If you're planning on doing the installation yourself, be sure to shut off the power to your home prior to beginning work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that might interfere with placing your microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there are no other appliances within the space. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs under the cabinet you want to place the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. When you hear a sound that is solid, you've found the stud. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them with a pencil and a level. If integrated microwave oven combo comes with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets have venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They will explain how to go about venting, like elevating your microwave by a few inches or directing ventilation tubes along the exterior wall, cabinet or island.
When installing a built-in microwave, have an assistant hold the appliance in place as you attach it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of the microwave, like lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and then run the power cord through a hole drilled for this purpose.