How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, takes up space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. Installing them at an appropriate level and in close proximity to other appliances like the wall-mounted oven is simple.
Choose from a variety of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open the same way as a cabinet drawer. Think about other options, too.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in different sizes and capacities that can be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find one that suits your space. These models help streamline mealtimes with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that can save counter space. Some models also feature an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes easier.
Consider the size of your household and if you'll be using the microwave to heat larger serving ware like platters or casseroles. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. For instance a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a microwave is the power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves come with multiple power levels, allowing you to alter 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, as well as the capacity inside. Exterior sizes can be useful in your search, as they can provide an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is provided separately and can be helpful in determining the right model for your home.
The interior of a built-in microwave can vary from model to. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths could be a bit smaller to fit standard cutout sizes for cabinets and match models from over-the-range. Models vary in height and depth, however, they all need to be mounted 12 inches or more above the stove for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, measure the area where you'd like to place it and remove any obstructions that may be in the spot. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the door to avoid tipping.
Design
It is essential to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space when selecting the most suitable small built-in microwave. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in a variety of ways. It can be mounted on the wall, positioned under the counter in a drawer configuration or even recessed within the cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated look.
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 users of all heights to easily access the appliance and save valuable countertop space. Some microwaves come with many top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is important to consider the amount of power needed for certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed in the back of the appliance. A model that has a higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings which are more energy efficient. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food.
One of the most popular ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These types of 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 is done correctly it is important to study the owner's manual and installation instructions for the microwave model that you are contemplating.
Another option is to mount the microwave on the wall, such as in a nook or pantry. This will give the room an open, modern appearance which will help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the most effective place for the microwave. black integrated microwave is important to keep in mind that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides and back to perform effectively.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to complete various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are integrated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have a sleek, streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that take up less space and have enough space inside for tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also pick from a variety of control options to make cooking and warming food more convenient and less time-consuming. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make eating effortless. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design help you fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures offer a sleek design that removes the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. They generally require professional installation however, they permit you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, which makes them easier to fit into small spaces or corners.
Before installing your new microwave, consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you select. This should give you information about the amount of space needed for ventilation and what tools and materials are required to make the project successful. Depending on the model, your home's electrical system may need to be altered for installation. If you are planning to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electrical power to your home prior beginning work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet which could hinder the microwave from being placed correctly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are within the space. Utilize a stud-finder to find wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you plan to place the microwave. You can tap the wall using a hammer to find studs. If you can hear a solid sound, you've found an stud. After you've found the wall studs with pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave included a cardboard template, you can tape it over the upper cabinet to act as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed spaces have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of how to go about venting, like elevating your microwave by a few inches or directing ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
Installing a built-in microwave requires an assistant to hold the appliance while you connect it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of your microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the mounting plate to your wall. The power cord can be pulled through the hole drilled specifically for this purpose.