How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter, frees the countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at a comfortable level and near other appliances like a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Choose from a variety of door designs, 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 a look.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and capacities that can work in any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models can help you cut down on meal time with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Certain models also come with a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Think about the size of your family and whether you will use the microwave to cook larger serving ware such as casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire is a good example. It can accommodate large dinner plates and platters.
The power level is another important factor to consider when choosing a microwave. You should look for models that have higher wattage which cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with different power levels, which allows you to alter the amount of heat produced based on the food you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type, and typically include dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, along with the capacity inside. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are useful because they provide an idea of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is typically specified separately on each product page and could be efficient in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The space inside small built-in microwaves varies from model to model however, most will have an overall dimension of 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths can be a bit smaller to fit the standard dimensions of cutouts for cabinets and match models from over-the-range. Height and depth vary between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, take a measurement of the space you'd like it to be and clear any obstructions in the space. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation, and three inches between the countertop's edge and the open doors to prevent 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 work in the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen. These include placing it on a wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer-style arrangement, or even recessed into cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to be integrated with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated appearance.
The design of the door is equally important. A majority of microwaves have doors that swing from left to right, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options allow users of any height to access the appliance and can help to save space on the countertop. built in combination microwave have a variety of premium features that give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is essential to consider the power required for certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating in the back of the appliance. Choosing a model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food. While there are a few models available with lower wattage ratings for those looking for an energy-efficient choice, it is important to keep in mind that they will generally take longer to cook and heat food items.
Installing a small microwave inside an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves are available at various prices, but they generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a a finished, integrated look. To ensure that the installation is done correctly it is important to look at the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation for the microwave model you're contemplating.
Another option is to put the microwave on the wall, such as in a nook or pantry. This can give the kitchen 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 best placement. It is important to remember that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and the back to function effectively.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to complete a variety of tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can affect the speed at which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are installed in your kitchen's cabinets and this provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that require less room and still have enough space for tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also pick from a wide range of control options that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes even easier. Other features include tap-to-open doors and a slim, sleek design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves integrated into cabinets or island structures provide a sleek 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 also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into tight spaces and corners.
Before installing your new microwave, consult the manufacturer's instructions for the model you pick. You will be able to determine the amount of ventilation space you need and the tools and materials needed to complete the job. Depending on the type of your home, the electrical system may need to be altered. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power to your home prior to starting work.
The first step is to prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that might interfere with placing your microwave in the correct place. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are within the area. Utilize a stud-finder to find wall studs underneath the cabinet where you intend to install the microwave. You can also use a hammer or tap the wall to locate studs. When her response hear a solid noise then you've found a good stud. After you've found the wall studs with pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template for drilling holes, tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of what to do for proper venting, such as elevating your unit a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes along the exterior wall or cabinet.
Installing a built-in microwave requires an assistant to hold the appliance while you connect it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of your microwave are recommended, for instance lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and then run the power cord through a hole made specifically for this purpose.