How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven

Relocating your microwave into a cabinet or wall will free up counter space and give you more work surfaces. Built-in models integrate seamlessly for the appearance of a sleek kitchen of all sizes.

This 1.2 cubic foot oven has 10 power settings, as well as presets that are for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. It also comes with a smart sensor that determines the cooking time based upon food weight and density.

Power

A microwave oven with a small built-in microwave is a fantastic kitchen appliance to cook and reheating food. Typically, these appliances are powerful and can heat foods quickly and evenly. The trick is to choose the right microwave oven for your needs. Take into consideration features like size power, design, and control options. Certain models have large icons on the display that help you select the right options, while others have smooth control panels that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable you choose are crucial aspects to take into consideration.

When choosing a small micro it is essential to think about the machine's interior capacity. The average countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food at the same time, but it may take longer to heat. You should also examine the dimensions of the exterior to make sure it fits in the desired space.

There are three types of microwaves: convection conventional and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are great for standard uses for reheating leftovers and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves can be used to roast or bake food. They usually come with an element of heating as well as an air-flow fan which circulates hot air around. Additionally, an oven microwave combines the functions of a traditional and convection microwave into one unit.

While wattage is an important aspect, you must also pay attention to the maximum and minimum power levels of your microwave oven. The minimum power of a microwave is 800, while the maximum power is 1,200. If you're purchasing new microwaves, avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts since it won't cook your food properly.

Installing a built in microwave best-in micro in your cabinetry is an excellent way to save space. This will free up counter space and make your kitchen appear more elegant. You can get trim kits which make your microwave appear to be part of the cabinet. These options are more costly than countertop and over the range microwaves however they are more user-friendly and can give your house a a high-end appearance.

Convenience

A small built in microwave oven is a handy method to heat drinks and food. It helps to free up space on the counter and provides more room to prepare meals. It's important that you select one that has the features you need. Many models include racks and a turntable and other kitchen accessories to make cooking easier. Some models come with an oven tray that is crisper and more like traditional oven baking and adds a crispy texture.

Microwaves are available in various sizes and finishes to match the design of your kitchen. Certain models come with recessed doors that blend into the cabinetry, giving it a custom appearance. It is important to consider the frequency and duration you will use your microwave before deciding on the best place to put it. Also, you'll want to ensure that there's enough room for ventilation in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.

A popular method of storing a microwave is above the refrigerator. This position keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easier to reach. However, it is risky for smaller children, and requires you to take down and put away the microwave each time you use it.

Another option is to put the microwave in a spare cabinet. This is a great solution for those with little counter space. It also provides an elegant and subtle appearance. It's also a good choice for those who don't want to purchase a microwave drawer but still need a convenient place to heat food and drinks.

You can also add shelves that pull out to the pantry that is designed to accommodate the microwave. These shelves are deep enough to stop tipping, and are available in a variety widths to fit the space you have. Some shelves have a curving corner to prevent spills and falling.

Another option is to place the microwave over the wall oven in a cabinet of mid-height. This is a classic installation and is ideal for Transitional style kitchens. Many manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat designs and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.

Design

It is crucial to select an option that integrates the built-in microwave into the kitchen layout. The countertop takes up a significant space and small built in microwave oven hinders the aesthetics of your kitchen. There are many ways to hide this small appliance, without sacrificing the counter space or storage space.

Installing an appliance or cabinet garage, to hide the microwave when it is not in use is a possibility. This is particularly useful for small kitchens with limited wall space. This kind of cabinet can be customizable to match the door and trim style in your kitchen, giving it a the appearance of a custom-designed kitchen.

Another method of hiding a microwave is to incorporate it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This type of placement is perfect for a small kitchen. It can be used with another pantry cabinet to maximize storage.

Certain microwaves have built-in microwave for wall unit turntables or racks that allow you to cook multiple dishes at the same time. These features make the appliance even more efficient and help you save time. It is crucial to use microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid using metal cookware or containers with metallic accents, as they can spark and damage the microwave.

Microwaves designed to be installed in drawers or cabinets might have venting systems that work with these enclosed spaces. It is important that you consult with your contractor to ensure the proper venting is specified. Also, a microwave should never be placed directly in the window's direction, because this could block the window and prevent venting.

You can incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by putting it under the counter or hiding it in an island. A drawer-style microwave is a great choice for kitchens with a limited counter space, since it is easily accessible by users of all heights.

Another option is to stack the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This type of installation is ideal for Transitional or Traditional-style kitchens. Kitchen Designers can employ a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be matched to match your oven.

Cost

A small built in microwave oven can be a stunning kitchen upgrade, adding both aesthetics and functionality to your kitchen's design. Find designs and finishes that match your home's decor. Also, look for features like auto defrost and cooking settings. Timer options are also helpful. Certain microwaves feature designs that are resistant to fingerprints, which means they look clean.

While microwaves for countertop use are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space that can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If this is a concern, you may think about an recessed microwave that could be placed inside your cabinet. This will give it a sleek, custom look. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven inside a kitchen isle can also provide more space and a sleek stainless steel integrated microwave appearance. It's important to remember that a recessed microwave needs sufficient air space around the rear and sides to function effectively.

When deciding where to place your microwave, take into consideration how often you'll use it and what kind of food you usually cook. If you're making a lot of frozen dinners and pizza then you should consider the highest watt microwave that can cook food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require a more delicate heating, look into using a smaller wattage model to avoid scorching and overcooking.

Install a small, mobile stand if it's not possible to fit the microwave in a cabinet or you prefer a smaller model. These stands have the capacity to support the microwave and hold it in place, and are usually designed to ward off fingerprints for a clean appearance. They're a low-cost and practical option that can serve as an interim microwave solution until you can find a permanent place for it in your kitchen.

Another alternative is to put a microwave in the corner of your kitchen, which can be used as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a practical way to reduce space, it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who need easy access to the kitchen. A corner microwave should not be placed in the window's direction, since it could hinder ventilation and shatter glass in an emergency.