How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances, such as an oven that is wall-mounted is simple.
Select from a range of door styles, such as right-to-left swing-out models or drop-down ones that open the same way as a cabinet drawer. Also, think about other features.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a broad variety of sizes and capacities to fit any kitchen. Choose from compact, built-in, countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models help streamline mealtimes with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models come with an adjustable turntable that helps with loading and unloading.
Think about the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. You'll need a larger capacity microwave to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, is large enough to hold large dinner platters and plates.
The power level is an additional important factor to take into account when choosing the right microwave. You should look for models that have higher wattage which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves offer multiple power settings, so you can alter the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ depending on the type. They include the exterior width and height, as well as the capacity inside. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping since they provide a rough idea of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is typically described separately on each page, and can be efficient in determining which model is right for your home.
The space inside a small built in microwave varies from model to model however, most will have an overall dimension of around 24 inches when the door is shut. Widths may be a little smaller to fit standard cutout sizes for cabinets and are in line with models that are over-the-range. Models vary in both height and depth however, all of them must be placed at least 12 inches above the stove for ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to place the microwave in and clear any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch of space between the wall and the microwave to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the edge of the countertop and the open door to avoid tipping.
Design
When choosing the best small built-in microwave, it is important to consider the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the space. There are built in microwave deals of options for integrating the appliance into the kitchen, including mounting it on the wall, or placing it beneath the countertop in a drawer arrangement, or even in the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, giving an aesthetically pleasing look.
Choosing the right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. A majority of microwaves have doors that swing left-to-right dropping doors, drop-down doors, or an open drawer. These options allow people of any height to access the appliance and reduce the space needed for countertops. Certain microwaves are equipped with many top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more luxurious look.
It is crucial to think about the amount of power needed for certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating in the back of the unit. Selecting a model with a greater wattage will enable quicker cooking and reheating of food. While there are some models with lower wattage ratings for those seeking an energy-efficient choice It is important to keep in mind that these models typically take longer to cook and reheat foods.
One of the most popular ways to integrate a small built in microwave is by placing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available in a wide range of prices, but they generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a an attractive, integrated look. To make sure the installation will work correctly it is crucial to look at the owner's manual as well as installation instructions for the microwave model you're considering.
Installing the microwave on the wall is another option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This can give a clean and sleek look that can aid in opening up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can collaborate with homeowners to determine the most appropriate placement. It is essential to keep in mind that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides and the back to work properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform a wide range of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can affect the speed at which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more effectively than models with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are installed into 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 take up less space and have enough space to accommodate tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also select from a variety of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more simple and convenient. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make mealtime even more effortless. Tap-to-open features and slim, sleek designs help you squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves built into cabinets and island structures provide a sleek look that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, allowing valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you 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, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you select. You will find out how much ventilation space you require, as well as the tools and materials required to complete the job. Based on the model of your house the electrical system might have to be modified. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off your home's power before beginning work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet that could hinder the placement of the microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and that there aren't other appliances around. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you intend to mount the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer to locate studs. When you hear a sound that is solid it means you've located an nail. Once you've found the locations of wall studs, mark them off with the help of a pencil and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
The majority of microwaves that are designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They will inform you of what to do for proper venting, such as elevating your microwave by a few inches or directing ventilation tubes along the exterior wall or cabinet.
When installing a microwave with a built-in, have an assistant hold the appliance in place as you secure it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of your built-in microwave, for instance lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). These screws are used to secure the mounting plate to your wall. The power cord can be pulled through a hole that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.