How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is installed in a cabinet, or under the counter, can free up space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. Installing them at an appropriate level and near other appliances such as a wall-mounted oven is also easy.
Choose from integrated microwaves uk of door designs. They include swingouts that are left-to-right or drop-down doors that open in the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Other features are also worth looking into.
Capacity
Microwaves are available in a variety of dimensions and capacities that will be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact countertop microwaves as well as low-profile microwaves. These models can help you cut down on meal time with features like sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Some models also have a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes a breeze.
When shopping, take into consideration the size of your family, and whether you'll be using the microwave to cook larger items like platters or casseroles. Look for a microwave with more capacity 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 an additional important factor to take into account when choosing the right microwave. Look for models with more watts, which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves even offer various power levels, allowing you to control the amount of heat produced based on what you're cooking.
The dimensions of microwaves are different depending on the type. They are the height and width on the outside, as well as the interior capacity. Sizes on the outside can be helpful in your search, as they can provide a rough idea of what you can expect. The interior capacity of each model is provided separately and can be helpful in determining which model is best for your home.
The inside of a tiny built-in microwave will vary from model to. However, the majority of models will have a diameter of around 24 inches when the door is shut. The widths of certain models may be slightly smaller to accommodate standard cabinet cutouts and align with over the range models. Models differ in depth and height, but all must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove to allow air circulation.
Before installing a new microwave, measure the area where you'd like to place it and remove any obstructions from the spot. 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 design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit into the space when selecting the most compact built-in microwave. There are a myriad of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen including mounting it on a wall, putting it under the countertop in a drawer-style configuration or even recessed into cabinetry. The appliance will blend better with other kitchen appliances, creating an aesthetically pleasing look.
The design of the door is equally important. Many microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right dropping down doors, drop down doors or drawers. These options allow easy access to the appliance for users of all heights and can save valuable counter space. Certain microwaves are equipped with various high-end features to give the kitchen a luxurious feel.
It is also important to remember the power that will be required for cooking certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating at the back of the unit. A model that has a more watts will allow for faster cooking and heating 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.
One of the most popular ways to integrate a small built-in microwave is by installing it within an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available in various prices, but they generally sit in the cabinet, giving it a a finished, integrated look. It is essential to read the instruction manual and owner's guide for the microwave you're thinking of buying.
Mounting the microwave on the wall is a different option. This can be placed in a nook or pantry. This can give the kitchen an open, modern appearance that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with the homeowner to determine the most effective place for the microwave. However, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave requires sufficient air clearance on each side and the back for it to function properly.
Power
Microwaves can be used to perform various tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can impact how quickly and evenly the food is cooked. Generally speaking higher wattage models cook food faster and more effectively than models with lower watts.
Unlike freestanding microwaves, built-in models are fitted into your kitchen's cabinets, which provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends with the rest of your appliances and space. Furthermore, you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space, yet still offer plenty of space for tall glasses, wide dishes and other items.
You can also select from a range of options for control that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. For instance, you can go for models that incorporate sensor-cooking technology to make mealtime even more easy. Other features include doors that open with a tap and a sleek, slim design that allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and islands give your kitchen a modern look and free up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation however they do allow you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are also smaller than freestanding models, which makes it easier to fit them into corners and spaces that are tight.
Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions for the model you select. You will learn how much ventilation space you require in addition to the materials and tools needed to complete the task. Based on the type of home, your electrical system might have to be modified for the installation. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power to your home prior to beginning work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could interfere with placing the microwave properly. Ensure the countertop is clear and there aren't other appliances around. Utilize a stud finder to locate wall studs underneath the cabinet you want to place the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently using a hammer to find studs; when you hear a distinct sound, you've found an wall stud. After you've found the wall studs with pencil or a level, mark them. If your microwave came with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves made for recessed mounting or inside cabinets come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They will tell you how to go about venting, including raising your unit by a few inches, or routing the ventilation tubes along an exterior wall, cabinet or island.
When installing a microwave with a built-in, have an assistant hold the appliance in place as you attach it to the wall. It is best to use screws that will support the weight of your built-in microwave, for instance lag bolts (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and then run the power cord through a hole made for this purpose.