How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is installed in cabinets, or under the counter, frees space and gives your kitchen a seamless appearance. It's also simple to set at a level that is comfortable and near other kitchen appliances like a wall oven.
Choose from a variety of door styles. These include right-to-left swingout or drop-down doors that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other options are worth considering.
Capacity
Microwaves come in a wide range of capacities and sizes to fit any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop, low-profile and built-in microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models speed up meals with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Some models have a retractable turntable that helps with loading and unloading.
When shopping, take into consideration the size of your family and whether you'll be using the microwave for larger serveware, such as platters or casseroles. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, can accommodate large dinner platters and plates.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave is its power level. Choose models with more watts, which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with various power settings, meaning that you can alter the heat output based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves differ depending on the type. built in microwave grill are the height and width on the outside, as well as the interior capacity. Exterior sizes can be useful when shopping as they give you an idea of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is listed separately and can assist in determining the right model for your home.
The inside space of small built-in microwaves differs from model to, but most will have an overall diameter that is around 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths could be a bit smaller to fit standard cutout sizes for cabinets and align with over-the-range models. The height and depth differ between models, but all microwaves must be set at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Take measurements of the space you wish to place the microwave in and remove any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation, and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the open doors to prevent tipping.
Design
When selecting the ideal small built-in microwave, it is crucial to think about the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in various ways. It could be hung on the wall, positioned beneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed within the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, giving a seamless appearance.
The style of the door is also crucial. Many microwave models come with an open swinging door from right to left or drop-down doors, or drawers. These options allow users of any height to access the appliance and can help to save space on the countertop. Certain microwaves have a variety of top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also essential to keep in mind the amount of power needed for cooking certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating at the back of the appliance. Selecting a model with a greater wattage will enable faster cooking and heating of food items. While there are a few models with lower wattage ratings for those looking for a more energy-efficient option, it is important to note that they will generally take longer to cook and reheat foods.
Installing a small built-in microwave into an existing cabinet is one of the most straightforward ways to integrate it. They are available at a variety of price points, but they sit in a flush position against the cabinet to give it an elegant appearance. To ensure that the installation will work correctly, it is essential to look at the owner's manual as well as installation instructions for the microwave model that you are considering.
Another option is to put the microwave on the wall, like in a nook or pantry. This can give the kitchen an open, modern design that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the most appropriate place to put it. It is important to keep in mind that the microwave must have enough air space on both sides as well as the back to function effectively.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can perform various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power level of a microwave is measured in watts and this will affect the speed at which it cooks food. In general the higher wattage models cook food faster and more efficiently than models with lower watts.
In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are installed into your kitchen's cabinets, which creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends in with the other appliances and space. You can also find built-in microwaves that take up less room and still have enough space to accommodate tall glasses and large dishes.
You can also pick from a wide range of options to control the cooking process, making cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. For instance, you can go for models with sensor-cooking technology to make eating effortless. Tap-to-open features and slim, sleek designs help you fit them into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves integrated into cabinets or islands give your kitchen a modern look and free up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you be more creative with the layout of your kitchen. They also take up less room than freestanding microwaves, which makes them more suited to corners or spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, you should consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you pick. This should give you details on the amount of space needed to allow for ventilation, as well as what materials and tools are required to make the job successful. Based on the model, your home's electrical system might have to be altered for installation. If you intend to install the system yourself, turn off the power to your home before beginning the work.
First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that could block placing your microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and there aren't other appliances in the vicinity. Utilize a stud-finder tool to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet you want to install the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs. When you hear a solid sound it means you've located the stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them off with a pencil and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, tape it over the upper cabinet to act as a reference for drilling holes for the mounting plate.
The majority of microwaves designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed spaces have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have 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 connect it to the wall. It is best to use screws that will support the weight of the microwave, for instance lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). These screws will secure the plate in place to your wall. The power cord can be pulled through the hole specially drilled for this purpose.