How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is set in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees up valuable space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install at a height that is comfortable and near other kitchen appliances like an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety of door styles, including right-to-left swing-out or drop-down models that open the same way as a cabinet drawer. Other features are also worth considering.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a variety of dimensions and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Find countertop, compact or low-profile microwaves to find a model that will fit your space. These models make mealtimes easier with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Certain models also come with a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes much easier.
Think about the size of your household and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. Look for a microwave with the capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It is large enough to hold large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is another important aspect to consider when selecting a microwave. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to control the power output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type and typically include the dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, as well as the capacity inside. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are helpful because they give you a sense of what to expect. The interior capacity of each model is provided separately and can help in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside space of a microwave built-in is different from model to model, but most will have an overall size that is around 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to fit standard cabinet cutouts, and will be in line with models that are over the range. The height and depth differ between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches above the stove to allow for ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge and the doors that are open to avoid tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built in microwave, it is important to consider the overall kitchen design and how the appliance will work in the space. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. It can be mounted on the wall, placed underneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, giving a seamless look.
Selecting the right style of door is a crucial aspect to consider. Many microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right or drop-down doors, or a drawer. These options make it easy to gain access to the appliance for users of all sizes and save valuable counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with many high-end features to give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also essential to remember the amount of power that is required for cooking certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will display the power rating. Choosing best integrated microwave oven with higher wattage will allow for faster cooking and reheating of food items. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or reheat food.
Installing a small built-in microwave inside an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to incorporate it. These microwaves are available at a wide range of prices, but they generally sit flush with the cabinet with an attractive, integrated look. To ensure that the installation will function properly, it is essential to read the owner's manual and installation instructions for the microwave model you are considering.
The microwave can be mounted on the wall is another option. This can be placed in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern look that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the best placement. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave requires sufficient air clearance on each side and back to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can carry out a variety of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more effectively than models with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are incorporated within the cabinets of your kitchen, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore there are built-in models that are designed to take up less space and still provide plenty of space to accommodate tall glasses, wide dishes and more.
You can also select from a wide range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and less time-consuming. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technology to make eating simple. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a slim, sleek design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into island and cabinet structures provide a sleek look that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These types of microwaves generally require professional installation however, they allow you to be imaginative with your kitchen layout. They are smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit them into corners and spaces that are tight.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This should provide you with details on how much space is required for ventilation as well as what tools and materials are required to make the project a success. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be altered for installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, make sure to turn off the power in your home prior to starting work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could hinder placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is clean and that there are no other appliances within the vicinity. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet where you plan to mount the microwave. You can also tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. If you can hear a solid sound it means you've located an stud. Once you've located the wall studs using pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave comes with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, then tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets come with venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do to ensure proper ventilation, for instance raising the unit by a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet, or even an island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in, have an assistant hold the appliance while you attach it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of the microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws will hold the plate that is mounted to your wall. The power cord can be pulled through an opening that has been specifically drilled for this purpose.
