How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances, such as the wall-mounted oven is easy.
Choose from a variety door styles, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models which open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes and capacities to accommodate any kitchen. Find countertop, compact, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find one that will fit your space. These models make mealtimes easier with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Some models have a retractable turntable that makes loading and unloading easier.
While you shop, consider the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. Choose a microwave that has the capacity to handle these larger items. For wall microwave -cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave is its power level. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves come with different power settings, which means you can adjust the amount of heat produced based on what you are cooking.
Microwave dimensions differ based on type and typically include the exterior width, height and depth, along with the capacity inside. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping as they give you an idea of what to expect. However, the capacity inside is usually described separately on each page and could be efficient in determining which model is right for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary between models. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is closed. The widths of certain models might be a bit smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with over the range models. Height and depth vary among models, but all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches above the stove to allow ventilation.
Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch of space between the wall and the microwave for ventilation and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the open door to prevent tipping.
Design
It is crucial to take into consideration the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will be incorporated into the space when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. There are many ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen. These include mounting it on the wall, or placing it beneath the countertop in a drawer configuration or even recessed into cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend into other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated appearance.
The design of the door is equally important. Many microwave models come with a swinging door that swings from left to right, drop down doors or a drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for people of all sizes and reduce counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with various high-end features to give the kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also important to keep in mind the amount of power that will be required for cooking certain meals. The back of many microwaves will show the power rating. A model that has higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and reheating. Although there are some models with lower wattage ratings for those seeking a more energy-efficient option but it is important to keep in mind that these models typically take longer to cook and heat foods.
Installing a small microwave in an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. These microwaves are available at various price points but generally sit flush with the cabinet with an attractive, integrated look. To ensure that the installation will work correctly it is important to study the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model you're looking at.
Installing the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be installed in a pantry or nook. This can create a clean and sleek look that can aid in opening the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with homeowners to determine the most suitable place for the microwave. It is crucial to remember that the microwave needs to have enough air space on both sides and back to work correctly.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can carry out many tasks quickly and easily. The power of microwaves is measured in watts, and this will affect the speed and efficiency with which it cooks food. Generally speaking the higher wattage models heat food quicker and more efficiently than models with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which gives them a streamlined appearance that seamlessly blends with the other appliances and space. Additionally, you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space but still have plenty of space to accommodate large glasses, wide dishes, and more.
You can also choose from a variety of control options to make cooking and warming food more convenient and less time-consuming. For instance, you can opt for models with sensor-cooking technologies to make eating easy. 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 give a sleek design and free up counter space. These models require professional installation, but permit you to be more creative in the design of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, making them easier to fit into tight spaces or corners.
Check the instructions supplied by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will learn how much ventilation space you require, as well as the tools and materials needed to complete the job. Based on the type of home, your electrical system might have to be modified for the installation. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, make sure to shut off the power in your home prior to starting work.
First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that could block the proper placement of your microwave. Ensure the countertop is clear and that there are no other appliances within the vicinity. Utilize a stud-finder to find wall studs underneath the cabinet where you intend to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently with a hammer in order to locate studs. When you hear a solid sound it means you've located a nail. After you've found the wall studs using the pencil and a level, you can use a ruler to mark them. If your microwave comes with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
The majority of microwaves designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed areas have ventilation systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll specify what you need to do for proper ventilation, like elevating the unit a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through an exterior wall, cabinet, or island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place while you fasten it to the wall. It is best 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 plate in place to the wall. The power cord can be pulled through an opening that has been specially drilled for this purpose.