How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. Installing them at a comfortable level and in close proximity to other appliances like the wall-mounted oven is simple.
Choose from a range of door designs. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide variety of capacities and sizes to fit any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop or low-profile microwaves to find a model that suits your space. They can speed up mealtimes by offering features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that can save space on the counter. Some models have a retractable turntable that helps with loading and unloading.
Think about the size of your household and whether you'll be using the microwave to heat up larger serving ware such as platters or casseroles. Consider a microwave with more capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It can accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is another important factor to consider when choosing a microwave. You should look for models that have more watts, which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to control the amount of heat produced based on the food you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and usually include the exterior width, height, and depth, along with the capacity inside. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful because they provide a sense of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is provided separately and can help in determining the best model for your home.
The interior space of small built-in microwaves is different from model to model, but most will have an overall size that is around 24 inches with the door closed. The widths of certain models might be a bit smaller to fit standard cabinet cutouts and align with over the range models. Models vary in depth and height, but all must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove for ventilation.
Measure the area you want to install the microwave and remove any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the open doors to avoid tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built in microwave, it is important to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. There are a myriad of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen. These include mounting it on the wall, putting it under the counter in a drawer-style arrangement, or even recessed into cabinetry. This allows the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated appearance.
Selecting the right style of door is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models offer doors that swing from left to right drop-down doors, drop-down doors or a pull-out drawer. These options allow users of any height to access the appliance and help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have various high-end features to give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also essential to remember the amount of power needed for cooking certain meals. The back of many microwaves will display the power rating. Choosing a model with higher wattage will allow for faster cooking and heating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food.
Installing a small built-in microwave in an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These types of microwaves can be found at a wide range of prices, but are generally flush with the cabinet with an elegant, integrated appearance. It is important to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is an alternative option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern appearance that will help to make the kitchen more inviting. A professional Kitchen Designer can collaborate with homeowners to determine the most appropriate place for the microwave. It is crucial to remember that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides and back to work properly.
Power
Microwaves are a versatile kitchen appliance that can perform various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of microwaves is measured in watts, and this can affect the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted within the cabinets of your kitchen, which gives them a streamlined appearance that blends seamlessly with the other appliances and space. Moreover you can find built-in models designed to use less space but still have plenty of space for tall glasses, large dishes and more.
You can also select from a wide range of options for control that make cooking and heating food much more convenient and easy. You can choose models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes more convenient. Tap-to-open features and slim, sleek designs allow you to easily fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or island structures provide a sleek look and free up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation however they do allow you to be imaginative in the layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into corners and tight spaces.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This will provide information about the amount of space needed to allow for ventilation, as well as what tools and materials are required to make the project successful. Based on the model of your house, the electrical system may have to be modified. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, make sure to shut off the power in your home prior to beginning the work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that might interfere with placing your microwave in the correct place. Make sure the countertop is clean and that there aren't other appliances within the vicinity. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs beneath the cabinet you want to install the microwave. You can also use a hammer to tap the wall to locate studs. If you can hear a solid noise then you've found an appropriate stud. Once integrated combination microwave 've located the wall studs using the pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave included an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it to the upper cabinet to serve as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves made to be installed in cabinets or recessed spaces have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do to ensure proper ventilation, such as raising the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet, or even an island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you secure it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall with these and snake the power cord through a hole that has been made to serve this purpose.