How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter, frees the countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances, such as the wall-mounted oven is simple.
Choose from a variety of door styles. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Other features are also worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves come in a wide range of sizes and capacities to accommodate any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models help streamline mealtimes by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also have an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to cook larger serving ware like platters or casseroles. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It has enough space to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is an additional important factor to take into account when selecting a microwave. You should look for models that have greater wattage, which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves even offer multiple power levels, allowing you to control the power output based on the food you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and typically include exterior width, height and depth, in addition to the capacity inside. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they provide an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is separated and can be helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The space inside small built-in microwaves differs from model to, but most will have an overall size of around 24 inches when the door is shut. built in double oven with microwave of some models might be a little smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with models that are over the range. Models vary in depth and height, however, they all need to be mounted 12 inches or more above the stove for ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to place the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch of space between the microwave and the wall to allow for air circulation and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the door that is open to prevent tipping.
Design
When selecting the ideal small built-in microwave, it is essential to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will work in the space. There are built in microwave oven black of options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen including placing it on a wall, placing it underneath the countertop in a drawer arrangement, or even in the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing look.
The style of the door is also important. A lot of microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right, drop down doors or drawers. These options allow easy access to the appliance for those of all sizes and reduce counter space. In addition to these convenient features, some microwaves come with premium features that can provide an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.
It is also essential to be aware of the amount of wattage that will be required to cook certain meals. The back of many microwaves will show the power rating. Selecting a model with a more watts will allow for faster cooking and heating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more energy efficient. However, they will take longer to cook or reheat food items.
Installing a small, built-in microwave into an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it. These types of microwaves can be found at various prices, but are generally in the cabinet, giving it a an attractive, integrated look. It is important to read the instruction manual and owner's manual for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Another option is to put the microwave on the wall, for example, in a nook or pantry. This can create an open, modern design that will help to bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can collaborate with homeowners to determine the most suitable place for the microwave. But, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave must have adequate air clearance on each side and back to function correctly.
Power
Microwaves are able to be used for a wide range 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. Generally speaking higher wattage models cook food faster and more efficiently than models with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with the other appliances and space. Moreover built in double oven and microwave can find built-in models designed to use less space, yet still offer ample room inside for tall glasses, wide dishes and more.
You can also pick from a range of options for control that make cooking and heating food more simple and convenient. You can select models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes even easier. Tap-to-open functions and a slim, sleek design help you fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves integrated into the cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that removes the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but allow you to be more creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into corners and tight spaces.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the manufacturer's instructions for the model you choose. This will provide information about the amount of space needed to allow for ventilation, as well as the materials and tools required to make the project successful. Based on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be altered for installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to shut off the power to your home prior to beginning the work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet that could interfere with placing the microwave correctly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are in the area. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you plan to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently with a hammer to locate studs. If you can hear a distinct sound then you've found a nail. Once you've located the location of wall studs, mark them using a pencil and a level. If your microwave included an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it to the upper cabinet, to serve as a guide to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves that are designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed areas have ventilation systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do for proper ventilation, like raising the unit by a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet, or even an island.
When installing a built-in microwave ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place as you secure it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the plate that is mounted to your wall. The power cord can be pulled through an opening that has been specially drilled for this purpose.