How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install them at a comfortable height and in close proximity to other kitchen appliances like an oven on the wall.
Choose from a variety door styles, including right-to-left swing-out or drop-down models which open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Consider other features, too.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that can fit into any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop microwaves and low-profile models. These models make mealtimes easier by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also have a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes much easier.
When you shop, think about the size of your family and if you'll use the microwave to cook larger items, such as casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. For instance, an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire offers enough space to accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
Another important factor when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models with higher wattage to cook food more quickly and more evenly. Some microwaves come with various power settings, meaning that you can adjust the amount of heat produced based on what you are cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary according to the model. They include the exterior width and height and the interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are important as they provide you with an idea of what you can expect. However, the interior capacity is typically listed separately on each product page and could be helpful in determining which model is right for your home.
The interior space of small built-in microwaves varies from model to model however, most will have an overall dimension of 24 inches with the door closed. The widths could be a bit smaller to match the standard dimensions of cutouts for cabinets and align with over-the-range models. The height and depth differ between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave measure the area where you'd like it to be and remove any obstructions from the area. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. It is possible to integrate the appliance into your kitchen in many ways. It could be hung on the wall, positioned underneath the counter in a drawer configuration or even hidden within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, creating an elegant appearance.
The style of the door is also crucial. A majority of microwaves have a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or a pull-out drawer. These options allow people of any height to access the appliance and can help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have many high-end features to give the kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is important to consider the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed in the back of the unit. A model with a higher wattage allows for quicker cooking and heating. While there are a few models that have lower wattage ratings for those seeking an energy-efficient alternative, it is important to remember that these will typically take longer to cook and reheat food items.
One of the most popular ways to incorporate a small built in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at a wide range of prices, but they generally sit close to the cabinet and have an elegant, integrated appearance. To make sure the installation will function properly it is crucial to study the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model that you are looking at.
Installing the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be installed in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern look which will help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine what is the most appropriate place to put it. It is important to remember that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides as well as the back to function effectively.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can carry out a variety of tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This will affect the speed at which food is cooked. In general, microwaves with higher watts will cook food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are installed into your kitchen's cabinets, which creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that take up less space, but still provide enough space inside for tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also choose from a range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food easier and more efficient. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes more convenient. Tap-to-open features and slim, sleek designs help you squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into the cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. where to buy built in microwave require professional installation but let you be more creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into tight spaces and corners.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. You will be able to determine the amount of ventilation space you require in addition to the tools and materials required to complete the job. Based on the model of your house, the electrical system may need to be altered. If you are planning to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electricity to your home prior to beginning the work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could hinder placing your microwave in the correct place. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and that there aren't other appliances within the vicinity. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet you want to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a loud sound then you've found a good stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them with a pencil and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, tape it over the upper cabinet to act as a guideline for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves that are designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets have venting systems that work 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 ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance while you secure it to the wall. It is best to use screws that will support the weight of your built-in microwave, for instance lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will secure the mounting plate to the wall. The power cord can be snagged through the hole drilled specifically for this purpose.