How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or under your counter, frees the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at a comfortable position and close to other appliances like a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Choose from a variety of door designs. built in combination microwave include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other features are also worth a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that will fit into any kitchen. Shop for countertop, compact, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find one that is suitable for your space. These models can help you cut down on meal time with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Some models come with an adjustable turntable which helps with loading and unloading.
While you shop, consider the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger items like casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It is large enough to hold large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is another important factor to consider when selecting the right microwave. Choose models with more watts which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves have different power settings, which means you can adjust the power output according to what you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and usually include the exterior width, height, and depth, in addition to interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are important because they give you an idea of what you can expect. However, the capacity inside is typically described separately on each page and can be more helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary between models. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of about 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths could be a bit smaller to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and are in line with models that are over-the-range. The depth and height vary between models, but all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches higher than the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave take a measurement of the space you'd like to put it and remove any obstructions that may be in the space. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the door to avoid tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built-in microwave, it is important to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the space. It is possible to integrate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. It can be mounted on the wall, set underneath the counter with a drawer layout or even recessed into the cabinetry. This way the appliance can blend in with other kitchen appliances and give a seamless, integrated look.
The style of the door is equally important. Many microwave models have a right-to left swinging door or drop-down doors, or drawers. These options provide easy access to the appliance for people of all heights and can help to save counter space. Some microwaves come with a variety of top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also essential to keep in mind the power that will be required for cooking certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will show the power rating. Choosing a model with greater wattage will enable faster cooking and heating of food. There are models with lower wattage ratings which are more efficient in energy use. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food items.
One of the most common ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is installing it within an existing cabinet. These microwaves can be found at various price points but generally sit close to the cabinet and have an attractive, integrated look. 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 you are contemplating.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is another option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This will give the kitchen a neat, streamlined appearance that can help to open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most suitable placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and the back to function properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform a wide range of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This will affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. Generally speaking higher wattage models heat food quicker and more effectively than lower wattage models.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are incorporated into your kitchen's cabinets, and this gives them a streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends in with the other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that require less space and have enough space inside for tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also choose from a variety of control options that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can pick models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes even easier. Features like tap-to-open and slim, sleek designs make it easier to squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures provide a sleek look that takes the appliance off your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you be more creative in the layout of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, which makes them more suited to tight spaces or corners.
Before installing your new microwave, consult the manufacturer's instructions for the model you pick. This will provide information about how much space is required to allow for ventilation, as well as what tools and materials are required to make the job a success. Depending on the model of your home, the electrical system may need to be altered. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, make sure to turn off your home's power before beginning the work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet that may interfere with placing the microwave correctly. Make sure the countertop is clean and there aren't other appliances within the vicinity. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs under the cabinet where you plan to install the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs. When you hear a distinct sound it means you've located a 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 an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet, to serve as a guide for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves made to be installed in cabinets or recessed areas have venting systems compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do for proper ventilation, such as elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a microwave with a built-in ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place as you fasten it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will secure the plate in place to the wall. The power cord can be pulled through the hole drilled specifically for this purpose.