How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or under your counter, frees up space on your countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a comfortable position and close to other appliances, such as the wall-mounted oven is simple.
Select from a variety of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a drawer in a cabinet. Also, think about other features.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of capacities and sizes that will suit any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find one that will fit your space. These models help streamline mealtimes with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that can save counter space. Certain models also come with an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes easier.
Take into our source of your household and whether you'll be using the microwave to heat larger serving ware like platters or casseroles. Consider a microwave with a higher capacity to handle these larger items. For instance, the 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire offers enough space to accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.
The power level is an additional important aspect to consider when choosing a microwave. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to control the power output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary according to the model. They are the exterior width and height and the capacity inside. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping as they provide an idea of what you can expect. However, the interior capacity is usually specified separately on each product page and can be more useful in determining which model is right for your home.
The space inside a small built in microwave is different from model to model, but most will have an overall dimension that is around 24 inches with the door closed. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over-the-range models. Models differ in both height and depth however, all of them must be placed at least 12 inches above the stove for ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and clear any obstructions. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.
Design
When selecting the ideal small built-in microwave, it is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will work in the space. There are many options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen, including placing it on a wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer-style configuration or even in the cabinetry. This way the appliance can blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated look.
The right door style is also an important consideration. Many microwave models come with an open swinging door from right to left dropping down doors, drop down doors or a drawer. These options allow people of all heights to easily access the appliance, and also save valuable countertop space. Certain microwaves have many top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also important to remember the amount of power needed to cook certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed on the back of the appliance. Choosing a model with higher wattage will allow for faster cooking and reheating of food. While there are some models that have lower wattage ratings for those who want an energy-efficient choice but it is important to remember that these models typically take longer to cook and heat food items.
Installing a small built-in microwave inside an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves are available at various prices, but they generally sit close to the cabinet and have a finished, integrated look. To ensure that the installation will function properly it is crucial 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 an alternative option. This can be installed in a nook or pantry. This can create an open, modern look that will help to bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the most effective place for the microwave. But, it is important to remember that the microwave needs adequate air clearance on each side and back in order to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can carry out various tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact how quickly and evenly the 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, giving them a sleek, streamlined design that blends seamlessly with your other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that take up less space and have enough space to accommodate tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also choose from a range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food much easier and more efficient. For instance, you can go for models that incorporate sensor-cooking technology to make eating simple. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design help you squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets or island structures give a sleek appearance and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but allow you to be more creative with the layout of your kitchen. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, which makes them easier to fit into small spaces or corners.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you pick. This will provide details on how much space is needed for ventilation and what materials and tools are needed to make the installation a success. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system may need to be altered for installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, be sure to shut off your home's power before starting work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet that may hinder the placement of the microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there aren't any other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet you want to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs; when you hear a distinct sound then you've found an nail. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them using the help of a pencil and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, tape it to the upper cabinet to serve as a reference to drill holes for the mounting plate.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets have venting systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do for proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a built-in microwave ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place while you fasten it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of your microwave are recommended, for instance lag screws (also known as 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 drilled specifically for this purpose.