How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free up space on your countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a suitable level and in close proximity to other appliances like a wall-mounted oven is also simple.
Choose from a variety of door designs, including right-to-left swing-out models or drop-down ones that open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Other options are worth considering.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in various sizes and capacities that will be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Find countertop, compact and low-profile microwaves as well as built-in models to find one that suits your space. They can speed up meals by incorporating 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 easier.
When you shop, think about the size of your family, and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger serving dishes, such as platters or casseroles. Consider a microwave with a higher 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.
Another important factor when choosing the right microwave is its power level. Look for models with greater wattage that cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with various power settings, meaning that you can adjust the heat output based on what you are cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary according to the model. They are the exterior width and height and the capacity inside. The dimensions of the exterior can be helpful when shopping as they give you an idea of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is usually specified separately on each product page and could be useful in determining which model is suitable for your home.
The interior of a small built-in microwave can vary from model to. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is closed. Widths may be a little smaller to be able to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and are in line with models that are over-the-range. Models vary in depth and height, but all must be installed 12 inches or more above the stove to allow air circulation.
Before installing a new microwave measure the area where you'd like to put it and clear any obstructions in the area. 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 avoid tipping.
Design
It is essential to take into consideration the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the space when choosing the most suitable small built-in microwave. It is possible to integrate the appliance into your kitchen in a variety of ways. It can be mounted on the wall, set under the counter in a drawer arrangement or even hidden within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing look.
The style of the door is also important. Many microwave models have a right-to-left swinging door dropping doors, drop-down doors, or a pull-out drawer. These options make it easy to gain access to the appliance for those of all heights and can reduce counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with various high-end features to give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also essential to be aware of the amount of wattage that will be required to cook certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating at the back of the unit. Selecting a model with a more watts will allow for quicker cooking and reheating of food items. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or reheat food items.
Installing a small built-in microwave in an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to incorporate it. They are available at different prices, but they sit flush against the cabinet for an elegant look. It is crucial to read the instructions and owner's guide for the microwave you are considering.
The microwave can be mounted on the wall is another option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern design which will help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine what is the most effective place for the microwave. But, it is important to remember that the microwave requires adequate air clearance on each side and back for it to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can perform many tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can affect the speed at which food is cooked. Generally speaking higher wattage models cook food faster and more effectively than lower wattage models.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. Additionally there are built-in models designed to use less space and still provide ample room inside for tall glasses, large dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and less time-consuming. You can pick models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes even easier. Tap-to-open functions and a slim, sleek design make it easier to fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into the cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that takes the appliance off your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models typically require professional installation however, they permit you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into corners and spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, consult the manufacturer's instructions for the model you choose. You will be able to determine the amount of ventilation space you need in addition to the materials and tools needed to complete the job. Depending on the type of your home, the electrical system may require modification. If you plan to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electricity to your home prior to beginning work.
First, builtin microwave must prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that could block placing your microwave in the correct place. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and that there are no other appliances in the vicinity. Utilize a stud-finder to find the wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you plan to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently using a hammer to find studs. When you hear a solid sound it means you've located an stud. Once you have located the wall studs using pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, then tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They will tell you how to go about venting, like elevating your unit a few inches or directing ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
Installing a built-in microwave requires an assistant to hold the appliance when you connect it to the wall. Screws that are able to support the weight of your microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and then run the power cord through a hole that has been made to serve this purpose.