How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave

A microwave that is placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees up space on your countertop and gives a seamless appearance. It's also easy to install them at a comfortable height and close to other kitchen appliances like a wall integrated oven and microwave.

Choose from a variety of door styles. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same manner as a cabinet drawer. Other options are worth considering.

Capacity

Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and capacities that will work in any kitchen. Choose from built-In combination microwave oven and grill, compact countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models speed up meals by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Certain models also come with an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes much easier.

Think about the size of your household and if you'll be using the microwave to heat up larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave to accommodate these larger items. For instance a 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire can accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.

Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave is its power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves offer different power settings, which means you can alter the heat output based on what you are cooking.

Microwave dimensions differ based on type, and typically include exterior width, height and depth, as well as interior capacity. Sizes on the outside can be helpful when shopping since they provide a rough idea of what you can expect. However, the capacity inside is typically described separately on each page, and can be useful in determining which model is best for your home.

The space inside a microwave built in double oven and microwave-in is different from model to model but the majority will have an overall size that is around 24 inches with the door closed. Widths may be a little smaller to match standard cabinet cutout sizes and match models from over-the-range. The height and depth differ between models, but all microwaves should be placed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.

Before installing a new microwave, measure the area where you'd like it to be and clear any obstructions in the area. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for built-in Combination microwave oven and Grill ventilation, and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.

Design

When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is essential to think about the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including mounting it on a wall, or placing it beneath the countertop in a drawer arrangement or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, giving an aesthetically pleasing look.

The design of the door is also crucial. Many microwave models come with a swinging door that swings from left to right dropping down doors, drop down doors or a drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for those of all sizes and save valuable counter space. In addition to these convenient features, some microwaves also have premium features that can provide the look and feel of a luxury to the kitchen.

It is essential to consider the wattage required for 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. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food items.

One of the most common ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is installing it within an existing cabinet. The microwaves are available in a variety of price points and are able to be placed right against the cabinet for a finished look. It is essential to read the instructions and owner's guide for the microwave you're considering.

The microwave can be mounted on the wall is a different option. This can be placed in a nook or pantry. This will give the kitchen a neat sleek appearance that will help to open up the Kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine what is the most appropriate place to put it. However, it is important to remember that the microwave must have adequate air clearance on each side as well as the back to function effectively.

Power

Microwaves can be used to complete various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can impact the speed at which food is cooked. In general, microwaves with higher watts can heat food faster and more efficiently than microwaves with lower watts.

In contrast to freestanding microwaves and built-in models are incorporated in your kitchen's cabinets and this creates a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with the other appliances and space. Furthermore you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space, yet still offer ample room inside for tall glasses, large dishes and more.

You can also pick from a variety of options for control that make cooking and heating food much easier and more efficient. You can pick models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes easier. Other features include doors that can be opened with a tap and a sleek, slim design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.

Installation

Microwaves that are built into the cabinets and island structures offer a streamlined look that eliminates the appliance from your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but allow you to be more creative with the layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into tight spaces and corners.

Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer before installing your new microwave. This should give you information on the amount of space needed for ventilation and what materials and tools are needed to make the installation a success. Based on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be altered for installation. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to shut off your home's power before beginning the work.

Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could hinder the placement of the microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there aren't any other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud-finder tool to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet where you intend to place the microwave. You can tap the wall using a hammer to find studs. If you can hear a distinct sound it means you've located a nail. Once you have located the wall studs using a pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave comes with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, tape it to the upper cabinet.

Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets come with venting systems that are compatible with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do for proper ventilation, for instance raising the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall or cabinet.

When installing a microwave with a built in microwave and double oven-in ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place as you fasten it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, such as lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and run the power cord through a hole that has been made specifically for this purpose.