How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is set in a cabinet, or under the counter, takes space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. Installing them at an appropriate position and close to other appliances such as an oven that is wall-mounted is simple.
Choose from a variety door styles, such as right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Also, think about other features.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in different sizes and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop and low-profile microwaves. They can speed up meals with features like sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Some models also feature an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
Think about the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. For instance a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire offers enough space to accommodate large plates and dinner plates.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a microwave is the power level. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves come with various power levels, allowing you to alter the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves vary depending on the type. They are the height and width on the outside as well as the interior capacity. When you are shopping, the exterior dimensions are helpful because they give you an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is provided separately and can be helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave can vary from model to model. However, most models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is shut. Widths may be a little smaller to fit the standard dimensions of cutouts for cabinets and match models from over-the-range. dig this and depth differ between models, however all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove in order to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave determine the area you'd like to place it and clear any obstructions in the area. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch space between the microwave and wall to allow for ventilation, and 3 inches of space between the countertop's edge and the doorway to avoid tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is essential to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including mounting it on the wall, or placing it beneath the counter in a drawer-style arrangement or even recessed into cabinetry. This way the appliance can be integrated with other kitchen appliances and create a seamless, integrated look.
The design of the door is equally important. A majority of microwaves have doors that swing left-to-right, drop-down doors or an open drawer. These options provide easy access to the appliance for people of all heights and can save valuable counter space. In addition to these convenience features, certain microwaves feature premium features that can provide an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.
It is important to consider the power required for certain meals. The back of most microwaves will show the power rating. A model that has a greater wattage will enable faster cooking and reheating of food items. There are models with lower wattage ratings which 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 one of the easiest ways to integrate it. They are available at a variety of price points and are able to be placed in a flush position against the cabinet to give it a finished look. To make sure the installation will function properly, it is essential to study the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model you are looking at.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be installed in a pantry or nook. This can give the kitchen an open, modern appearance that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the best placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave must have adequate air clearance on each side and back to perform effectively.
Power
Microwaves are a multi-functional kitchen appliance that can carry out various tasks quickly and easily. 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 heat food quicker and more efficiently than models with lower watts.
Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets of your kitchen they have an elegant, modern design that blends seamlessly with your other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that take up less space, but still provide enough space to accommodate tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also choose from a variety of options for control that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes more convenient. Features like tap-to-open and a slim, sleek design allow you to easily fit them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and islands give your kitchen a modern design and free up counter space. These models typically require professional installation, however they do allow you to be creative with your kitchen layout. They are smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit into corners and spaces that are tight.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. You will learn how much airflow you will require in addition to the tools and materials required to complete the task. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system may need to be altered for the installation. If you plan to install the system yourself, make sure to turn off the electricity to your home prior to beginning the work.
Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet which could interfere with placing the microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are in the area. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you intend to mount the microwave. You can also use a hammer and tap the wall to locate studs. If you hear a distinct sound it means you've located a good stud. Once you have located the wall studs with a pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, you can tape it over the upper cabinet, to serve as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves that are designed for recessed mounting or inside of cabinets have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do for proper ventilation, for instance elevating the unit by a few inches or routing the ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet, or even an island.
Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to hold the appliance when you fix it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of your microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also called toggle bolts). These screws will hold the plate in place to the wall. The power cord can be secured through an opening that has been drilled specifically for this purpose.