How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or under your counter, frees space on your counter and creates a seamless look. It's also easy to install them at a comfortable height and near other kitchen appliances, such as an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety 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. Consider other features, too.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a broad variety of capacities and sizes to suit any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop microwaves as well as low-profile microwaves. These models speed up meals by incorporating features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that can save space on the counter. Certain models also come with a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
Take into consideration the size of your household and if you'll be using the microwave to heat up larger serving ware like casseroles or platters. Consider a microwave with the capacity to handle these larger items. For instance an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire offers enough space to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a microwave is the power level. Look for models with more watts that cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to adjust the power output 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, as well as interior capacity. Sizes on the outside can be helpful in your search, as they can give you an idea of what you can expect. However, the capacity inside is usually specified separately on each product page and could be efficient in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The inside space of a microwave built-in is different from model to model however, most will have an overall dimension that is around 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and align with over-the-range models. The height and depth differ between models, however all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to place the microwave in and clear any obstructions. You should leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the open doors to prevent tipping.
integrated combination microwave is essential to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the kitchen when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. There are a myriad of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen, including mounting it on the wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer-style arrangement or even recessed into cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in a seamless look.
The style of the door is equally important. Many microwave models come with a right-to left swinging door or drop-down doors, or a drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for users of all heights and can help to save counter space. In addition to these convenience features, some microwaves have top-of-the-line features that can give an elegant look and feel to your kitchen.
It is important to consider the wattage required for certain meals. The back of most microwaves will display the power rating. Choosing a model with greater wattage will enable faster cooking and reheating of food items. While there are some models that have lower wattage ratings for those looking for a more energy-efficient option It is important to remember that they will generally take longer to cook and reheat foods.
One of the most common ways to integrate a small built in microwave is by installing it inside of an existing cabinet. They are available at different prices, but they sit right against the cabinet for an elegant appearance. To make sure the installation is done correctly, it is essential to look at the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model you are looking at.
The microwave can be mounted on the wall is another option. This can be installed in a nook or pantry. This will give the room an open, modern design which will help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the most appropriate place to put it. It is crucial to remember that the microwave needs adequate air clearance on each side and back to function correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a 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. Generally speaking the higher wattage models heat food quicker and more efficiently than lower wattage models.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. Additionally you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space, yet still offer ample room inside for tall glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also pick from a variety of options for control that make cooking and heating food more simple and convenient. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technology to make mealtime even more easy. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a slim, sleek design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or island structures provide a sleek design and free up counter space. These types of microwaves generally require professional installation but they do allow you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They also consume less space than freestanding microwaves, making them easier to fit into corners or spaces that are tight.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. You will learn how much ventilation space you need, as well as the tools and materials needed to complete the job. Based on the type of home, your electrical system may need to be altered for the installation. If you intend to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the power to your home before beginning the work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet that may interfere with placing the microwave correctly. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter 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 to tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a solid noise it means you've located a good stud. Once you have located the wall studs using a pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave came with an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet, to serve as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets have venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They will tell you how to go about venting, such as elevating your unit a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
Installing a built-in oven requires an assistant to hold the appliance when you connect it to the wall. Screws that can support the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws will secure the plate that is mounted to your wall. The power cord can be snagged through an opening that has been specially drilled for this purpose.