How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or under your counter frees up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at a comfortable level and near other appliances, such as a wall-mounted oven is also simple.
Choose from a variety of door styles, such as right-to-left swing-out models or drop-down ones which open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Think about microwave oven builtin , too.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a variety of dimensions and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find a model that will fit your space. They can speed up mealtimes by offering features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models come with a retractable turntable that allows loading and unloading to be done more easily.
Consider the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to heat up larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. For instance, a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave is the power level. Look for models with greater wattage that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with different power levels, which allows you to adjust the amount of heat produced based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type, and typically include dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, along with the capacity inside. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful as they provide you with a sense of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is listed separately and can assist in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary from model to model. However, most models will have a width of 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of some models might be a little smaller to fit standard cabinet cutouts and align with over-the-range models. Models vary in both height and depth however, all of them must be placed 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 spot. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch of space between the wall and the microwave to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the edge of the countertop and the door that is open to prevent tipping.
Design
It is essential to take into consideration the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the space when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. There are many options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen. These include mounting it on the wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer arrangement, or even in the cabinetry. This allows the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated appearance.
Choosing the right door style is also an important consideration. A majority of microwaves have doors that swing left-to-right, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for people of all sizes and help to save counter space. In addition to these practical features, some microwaves have high-end features that can add the look and feel of a luxury to your kitchen.
It is also essential to remember the power that is required for cooking certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed in the back of the appliance. A model with more watts allows for quicker cooking and heating. Although there are some models available with lower wattage ratings for those seeking an energy-efficient alternative It is important to note that these will typically take longer to cook and reheat foods.
One of the most common methods to integrate a tiny built-in microwave is installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at a variety of price points however they are placed right against the cabinet for a finished look. It is essential to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're considering.
Another option is to place the microwave on a wall, like in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean, streamlined appearance that can aid in opening the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the most effective place for the microwave. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on each side as well as the back to work properly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can perform various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can affect how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, microwaves with higher watts will heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are incorporated within the cabinets of your kitchen, which creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with the other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that require less room and still have enough space for large glasses and dishes.
You can also choose from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more efficient and easier. You can choose models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes even easier. Tap-to-open features and slim, sleek designs make it easier to fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and island structures give a sleek 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 into tight spaces and corners.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. This should provide you with information about the amount of space needed for ventilation as well as what materials and tools are needed to make the installation a success. Depending on the type of your home the electrical system could need to be altered. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, make sure to turn off the power in your home prior to beginning work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet that may hinder the microwave from being placed correctly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there aren't any other appliances in the area. Use a stud-finder to locate the wall studs beneath the cabinet where you intend to install the microwave. You can also tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs. When you hear a distinct sound then you've found the wall stud. Once you have located the wall studs using a pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, then tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets come with venting systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of what to do for proper venting, such as elevating your microwave by a few inches or directing ventilation tubes along the exterior wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in oven requires an assistant to hold the appliance while you fix it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of your built-in microwave, for instance lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall with these and snake the power cord through a hole that has been made to serve this purpose.