Benefits of a Built in Microwave Over Oven

A built in microwave over oven lets you cook and reheat food quickly and efficiently. GE provides a variety of designs, cooking technology and control options to fit your kitchen.

Countertop microwaves are placed on the counter and plug into outlets, while built-in models are placed in a wall with a recess or between cabinets for an elegant, black integrated microwave oven look. These styles require professional installation.

Space Saver

The microwave is a well-loved appliance in the kitchen, but it can also occupy valuable countertop space. There are plenty of smart ways to free up countertop space by moving your microwave to a different place, such as the kitchen island or by recessing it into the wall.

One of the most sought-after options is an over-the-range (OTR) microwave. Tucked away neatly above your stove, this option is especially beneficial in kitchens that are smaller and space is at a premium. Plus certain OTR models double as a vent hood for your cooktop, which can be useful in reducing the amount of steam that builds up.

Another option to save space is to install a microwave with a built in microwaves with trim kits-in design which blends seamlessly into your cabinetry. This can give you an elegant, seamless appearance that can be matched to your kitchen fixtures and cabinets in terms of color, finish or style. It also helps create a more streamlined appearance in your kitchen, which is ideal for those who prefer an uncluttered and clean look.

However installing a microwave built-in could require professional installation or a remodel of your kitchen. Based on the layout of your home it is possible to cut a space into walls to accommodate the appliance, however, this requires adequate framing and support, which should be left to experts. Built-in microwaves also need adequate ventilation to prevent overheating or damaging the appliance. According to Sam Cipiti of R. M. Tunis Kitchens and Baths in Chevy Chase, Maryland the minimum cabinet depth for an oven with built-ins is 15 inches. However certain manufacturers offer trim kits that give up to 1 1/2 inches of extra space to allow for Built in Microwave Over Oven ventilation.

A drawer-style microwave can be placed under your counter or inside an island. This configuration is easy to access and built in microwave over oven suitable for everyone and requires less countertop space. It also helps prevent hot dishes or containers from falling off the edge or getting knocked down.

The door design is a final consideration when choosing a compact microwave. There are many brands that have an open, swing-out or slide-out door that opens using the same motion as other kitchen appliances to help you seamlessly integrate your microwave into your cooking process. Certain models feature a smooth, sleek exterior that resists fingerprints to give a cleaner and more attractive appearance.

Convenience

A built-in microwave that is over the oven has a stylish, convenient and easy-to-clean design. They are usually set at eye-level for easier access and are equipped with turntables that make it easier to transfer food from one plate to the next. Built-in microwaves are often equipped with features that improve their capabilities, like EasyConvection technology to convert ovens and a broiler component that can cook or brown food.

In addition to reducing counter space, a built in microwave over oven can also boost your home's value and appeal by providing a high-end appearance that other appliances might not be capable of matching. The microwaves can be placed either above your stove, or in a separate cabinet. They blend seamlessly into the kitchen, giving an elegant look that shows how much you have invested in your kitchen and home.

Built-in microwaves over ovens come in a variety of sizes power levels, styles, and features that can be adapted to suit any kitchen. Install them underneath the counter in a drawer style to create a more integrated appearance that fits snugly within existing cabinets. They do not require additional space. Made with top-quality finishes and features, these microwaves are sure to complement the style of your kitchen and enhance your cooking and entertaining experience.

While the benefits of a built in microwave over oven is clear, keep in mind that they aren't as efficient as their freestanding counterparts. It may take more space to function, based on the location it's installed. They're also not as mobile, and you aren't able to easily switch the model if you want something different.

If you decide to put your microwave above your range, then you'll need a larger space in your kitchen to accommodate the ventilation needed by this arrangement. You'll need an option for ducting that directs smoke to the outside or a ventilator that recirculates air through the microwave into the house. If you have a smaller kitchen, consider a separate built-in microwave that can be installed into the wall, cabinet or island.

Convenient Controls

Microwaves come with a variety of controls, based on model. Some features are turntables, presets such as defrosting or reheating, as well as buttons for a maximum of 30 seconds. Some models have safety features for children that stop accidental use of the appliance.

Many microwaves have pre-programmed recipes and cooking times, which make the process of making food quicker and more efficient. This feature is beneficial for those who are just beginning to cook and are unsure of how long to cook certain foods or who aren't familiar with the specific cooking methods that are used in different cuisines.

KitchenAid offers a variety of built-in microwaves and over-therange microwaves that can be matched to your other appliances with style and design to create a seamless look. There's a range of stainless steel models as well as black integrated microwave oven and white finishes to complement any kitchen design. These premium microwaves are boldly designed to bring professional-inspired styles into your home, and they're made with high-quality materials for a longer lifespan.

Unlike countertop models built-in microwaves are fitted into a fixed space in the kitchen cabinets or walls to give your kitchen a sleek, customized appearance. The internal components are generally identical to those of traditional countertop models, with some exceptions. These models are available in a variety of sizes, including some that are designed to be able to fit in smaller spaces. The exteriors of these models may feature a door which opens with a swing-out that opens from left to right or drop-down style.

Some over-the-range microwaves like those made by Whirlpool(r), even serve as vent hoods for your kitchen stove and use an exhaust system that is built-in to vent fumes outside and recycle air. Some microwaves come with a built-in charcoal filter to remove moisture and odors from your kitchen.

Countertop models are positioned on the counter in the kitchen. They don't require venting or any special installation. This makes them a good choice for those who rent their homes or want to stay clear of costly modifications to their kitchens. Some models come with trim kits that can be used to bridge the gap between a microwave and other countertop appliances such as toaster ovens, coffee makers or bread makers.

Energy Efficiency

Microwaves are more efficient in heating water and food as when compared to other cooking methods. They also consume less power than conventional stovetops because microwaves focus their energy on the liquid in, rather than heating the air surrounding it. They can heat up dishes quicker than conventional ovens. They can be put in within the upper or lower cabinets and come in modern or retro designs to match any kitchen.

In this supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking ("SNOPR"), the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (DOE) proposes new or amended energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, which will reduce the cost of operating costs. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) requires DOE to evaluate on a regular basis whether stricter standards are technically feasible and economically viable, and if they will result in significant energy saving.

This SNOPR includes DOE's analysis and results to evaluate the effects of new or revised energy standards for microwave ovens on the consumer. The analysis includes a technology and market assessment as well as a screening analysis, an engineering analysis and national impacts analysis.

The energy usage analysis calculates the average annual microwave oven operating hours for households from a representative sample. It is the basis for the energy savings assessments and the other consumer analysis in this SNOPR. The analysis is made using RECS field data from a variety of regions and considers the various patterns of use of microwave ovens across different households and the variations in electricity prices across the region.

To assess the impact of new or amended standards on the cost of operating a household, DOE conducted LCC and PBP analyses to determine the cost over time of purchasing and using a microwave oven at different efficiency levels. The LCC and PBP calculations use an algorithm based on Monte Carlo simulations to incorporate variations and uncertainty into the analyses.

This SNOPR includes an evaluation of the impact of new or amended standards on the national scale based on the NIA spreadsheet. The NIA model calculates the industry net present value (INPV) in terms of energy saving from a potential amended or new standard in terms of energy savings for the site and FFC savings.