How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave

A microwave that's placed in a cabinet or beneath your counter will free up space on your countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at an appropriate position and close to other appliances such as an oven that is wall-mounted is simple.

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

Capacity

Microwaves come in a wide range of capacities and sizes to accommodate any kitchen. Choose from built in microwave oven with trim kit-in, compact countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models make mealtimes easier with features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that helps save counter space. Some models also have a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes a breeze.

When you shop, think about the size of your family and whether you'll use the microwave for larger serveware like casseroles or platters. You'll need a bigger capacity combi microwave oven integrated to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, is large enough to hold large dinner plates and platters.

The power level is another important factor to consider when selecting a microwave. You should look for models that have higher wattage that cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves offer different power settings, which means you can alter the power output according to what you're cooking.

The dimensions of microwaves vary based on the type, and typically include exterior width, height and depth, as well as interior capacity. When shopping, exterior sizes are helpful because they give you an idea of what to expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is separated and can help in determining which model is best for built in microwave oven with trim kit your home.

The interior space of a small built in microwave varies from model to model, but most will have an overall dimension that is around 24 inches with the door shut. The widths of some models may be slightly smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and are aligned with models that are over the range. Models differ in height and depth, but all must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove for ventilation.

Find the area where you would like to install the microwave and clear any obstructions. You should leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the edge of your countertop and the doors that are open to prevent tipping.

Design

It is important to take into consideration the overall layout of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space when selecting the most suitable small built in microwave over oven-in microwave. There are a myriad of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including placing it on a wall, or placing it beneath the countertop in a drawer arrangement, or even recessed into cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, creating an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

The right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. A majority of microwaves integrated have doors that swing from left to right drop-down doors, drop-down doors or the pull-out drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for users of all heights and can help to save counter space. In addition to these practical features, certain microwaves have high-end features that can add an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.

It is also essential to keep in mind the power needed for cooking certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating on the back of the appliance. A model with more watts allows for quicker cooking and reheating. Although there are some models available with lower wattage ratings for those who want an energy-efficient alternative It is important to note that these models typically take longer to cook and heat food items.

Installing a small microwave in an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to integrate it. The microwaves are available in various price points, but they sit right against the cabinet for an elegant look. To ensure that the installation will work correctly, it is essential to study the owner's manual and instructions for installation of the microwave model you're looking at.

Another option is to put the microwave on a wall like 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 can collaborate with homeowners to determine the best location. It is important to keep in mind that the microwave should have enough air space on both sides and back to function effectively.

Power

Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to complete many tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. In general, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more effectively than lower wattage models.

Built-in Oven and microwave microwaves are integrated into the cabinets in your kitchen and have an elegant, sleek look that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. Moreover, you can find built-in models that are designed to use less space but still have plenty of space for large glasses, wide dishes, and more.

You can also select from a wide range of control options to make cooking and warming food more convenient and less time-consuming. You can choose models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes easier. Other features include doors that can be opened with a tap and a slim, sleek design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.

Installation

Microwaves that are built into cabinets and island structures offer a sleek design that takes the appliance off your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These models require professional installation but let you create a more unique layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit them into corners and tight spaces.

Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. This should give you information about how much space is required for ventilation and what tools and materials are required to make the project a success. Based on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be altered for the installation. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, make sure to turn off the power in your home prior to starting work.

Remove any decorative trim from the cabinet that could interfere with placing the microwave properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of clutter and there aren't other appliances around. Utilize a stud-finder to find wall studs underneath the cabinet in which you plan to place the microwave. You can tap the wall with a hammer in order to locate studs. If you can hear a distinct sound it means you've located a wall stud. Once you've identified the locations of wall studs, mark them off with the help of a pencil and a level. If your microwave came with a cardboard template, tape it over the upper cabinet, to serve as a guide for drilling holes for the mounting plate.

Most microwaves that are designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed spaces have venting systems compatible with enclosed spaces. They will explain what to do for proper venting, like elevating your microwave by a few inches, or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet.

Installing a built-in oven will require an assistant to support the appliance as you fix it to the wall. It is best to use screws that can support the weight of the microwave, like lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and run the power cord through a hole drilled specifically for this purpose.