How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter, frees the countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at an appropriate level and near other appliances like the wall-mounted oven is easy.
Choose from a range of door designs. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Think about other options, too.
Capacity
Microwaves come in a wide range of sizes and capacities to accommodate any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models streamline meals with features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that can 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 household and whether you will use the microwave to cook larger serving ware like casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with more capacity to handle these larger items. For example a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is an additional important factor to consider when choosing a microwave. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with different power levels, which allows you to alter the heat output depending on what you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and usually include the dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, as well as the capacity inside. Exterior sizes can be useful when shopping as they provide a rough idea of what you can expect. However, the interior capacity is typically described separately on each page and can be more efficient in determining which model is best for your home.
The space inside a small built in microwave varies from model to model, but most will have an overall dimension that is around 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths can be a bit smaller to be able to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and align with over-the-range models. Models vary in depth and height, however, all of them must be placed at least 12 inches above the stove to allow for ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to install the microwave and clear any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the door to prevent 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 work in the space. It is possible to integrate the appliance into your kitchen in a variety of ways. It can be mounted on the wall, placed under the counter in a drawer configuration or even recessed within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in an elegant look.
The design of the door is also important. Many microwave models offer doors that swing left-to-right drop-down doors, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for those of all heights and can help to save counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with a variety of premium features that give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also important to be aware of the amount of power needed to cook certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. A model with a higher wattage allows for faster cooking and reheating. While there are a few models available with lower wattage ratings for those see king a more energy-efficient option, it is important to remember that they will generally take longer to cook and reheat food items.
One of the most common ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is installing it within an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at various price points but generally sit close to the cabinet and have a finished, integrated look. It is crucial to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're considering.
The microwave can be mounted on the wall is another option. This can be placed 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 homeowners to determine the most suitable location. It is essential to remember that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides as well as the back to perform properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of microwaves is measured in watts, and this affects the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. Generally speaking the higher wattage models heat food quicker and more efficiently than models with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets of your kitchen and have an elegant, sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with your other appliances and space. Furthermore you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space but still have plenty of space to accommodate tall glasses, large dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a variety of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can choose models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes more convenient. Features like tap-to-open and a slim, sleek design allow you to easily squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into island and cabinet structures offer a streamlined look that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you be more creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit them into corners and tight spaces.
Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you pick. This will provide information about how much space is required to allow for ventilation, as well as what tools and materials are required to make the project successful. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system may need to be altered for the installation. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to beginning work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that may hinder the microwave from being placed correctly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and no other appliances are within the area. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you intend to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you hear a distinct sound then you've found a good stud. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them with an eraser and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, tape it to the upper cabinet to serve as a guideline for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves designed to be installed in cabinets or recessed spaces have venting systems compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do in order to have proper ventilation, for instance elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to hold the appliance while you connect it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of your microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws will secure the plate that is mounted to the wall. The power cord can be secured through an opening that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.