How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is installed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, can free space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install them at a comfortable height and close to other kitchen appliances, like an oven that is wall mounted.
Choose from a variety door styles, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models that open in the same manner as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in different dimensions and capacities that will fit into any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models streamline meals with features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models also feature a retractable turntable to make loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
When you shop, think about the size of your family, and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger items, such as platters or casseroles. Look for a microwave with the 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.
inquiry to consider when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with various power settings, meaning that you can adjust the amount of heat produced based on what you are cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and usually include the exterior width, height and depth, in addition to the capacity inside. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping since they give you 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 a microwave built-in varies from model to model however, most will have an overall size of 24 inches with the door shut. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and align with over-the-range models. Models vary in both height and depth however, they all need to be mounted at least 12 inches above the stove for ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like to place it and remove any obstructions that may be in the spot. You should leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the open doors to avoid tipping.
Design
It is crucial to take into consideration the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the kitchen when selecting the best small built-in microwave. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including mounting it on a wall, placing it underneath the countertop in a drawer-style configuration or even in the cabinetry. This way the appliance can be integrated with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated look.
The design of the door is equally important. Many microwave models offer doors that swing left-to-right, drop-down doors or an open drawer. These options allow users of all heights to easily access the appliance and help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have many premium features that give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is crucial to think about the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating in the back of the appliance. A model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating. 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. The microwaves are available in a variety of price points however they are placed right against the cabinet for a finished look. To ensure that the installation will function properly it is crucial to look at the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation of the microwave model you are contemplating.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is another option. This can be done in a nook or pantry. This can give a clean and sleek look that can help open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most appropriate place for the microwave. It is essential to remember that the microwave should have enough air space on both sides as well as the back to work effectively.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can be used to complete a variety of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of a microwave is measured in watts and this affects how fast and evenly it cooks food. In general, higher wattage microwaves will cook food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Built-in microwaves are integrated into the cabinets of your kitchen and have an elegant, modern look that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that require less space, but still provide enough space inside for large glasses and dishes.
You can also pick from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more efficient and easier. You can select models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes more convenient. Features like tap-to-open and slim, sleek designs make it easier to squeeze them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and islands give your kitchen a modern appearance and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation, but allow you to create a more unique layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into corners and spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you choose. This should give you information about the amount of space needed to allow for ventilation, as well as the materials and tools required to make the job successful. Depending on built in oven and microwave combination of your house the electrical system could require modification. If you're planning on doing the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to starting work.
Remove any decorative trims from the cabinet that could hinder the microwave from being placed properly. Make sure the countertop is clean and that there are no other appliances within the vicinity. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs under the cabinet in which you intend to place the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. If you can hear a solid sound, you've found a nail. After in built oven and microwave found the wall studs with a pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave included an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet to serve as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves that are designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets include venting systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They will tell you what to do for proper venting, including raising your microwave by a few inches, or routing the ventilation tubes through an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
When installing a built-in microwave ensure that an assistant holds the appliance while you fasten it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of your microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the plate that is mounted to the wall. The power cord can be secured through the hole specially drilled for this purpose.