How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
The idea of putting your microwave in an area in the cabinetry or wall will free up counter space and give you more work surfaces. Built-in models work seamlessly to create a clean look in kitchens of all sizes.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets to cook popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also comes with a smart-sensor that determines the cooking duration based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave with a built-in microwave is a fantastic kitchen appliance to cook and warming food. These appliances are typically high-powered and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is important to choose the best microwave for your needs. The features you should consider include size as well as design, power level, and control options. Some models come with large icons that help you select the correct setting, while others have smooth controls that are easy to see under different lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks available and the kind of turntable.
When you are choosing a small microwave it is essential to look at the interior capacity of the machine. The typical countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave will cook more food in one go, but it will 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 main types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food using electromagnetic radiation. They are great for everyday use, such as reheating left-overs and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves are a great option to bake or roast food items. They typically have a heating element and a fan which circulates hot air around. Additionally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a conventional and convection microwave into one unit.
You shouldn't just be aware of the wattage, but also the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage required for a microwave oven is 800 watts, and the maximum is 1,200 watts. Beware of purchasing a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts, as it will not properly cook your food.
Installing a built-in microwave in your cabinetry is a great option to reduce space. This will help you save counter space and make your home appear more refined. You can even get trim kits to make your microwave appear like it's part cabinets. These models are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range however they are easier to use and provide your kitchen with a premium appearance.
Convenience
A small microwave oven is a convenient method of heating drinks and food. It helps to save space on countertops and frees up room for meal prep. It is essential to choose one that has the features you require. A lot of models come with a turntable, racks and other equipment that make cooking easier and more efficient. Some models have a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking and adds a crispy texture.
Microwaves come in a range of sizes and styles that will fit into any kitchen design. Some models have recessed doors that blend into the cabinetry, giving the appearance of a custom. To determine the ideal location for your microwave, you need to think about how often you'll use it and who will use it. It is also important to ensure that the space is big enough to allow for ventilation, according to the instructions provided by your manufacturer.
A common place to store microwaves is to place them above the refrigerator. This position keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easier to reach. It can be dangerous to shorter people or children and you will need to take it off and store the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave inside an additional cabinet. This is a great solution for those with limited countertop space and offers an unobtrusive, seamless appearance. It's also a good choice for those who don't want to purchase microwave drawers but require a space to heat food and drinks.
You can also add an open pantry shelf designed to fit a microwave. These shelves are deep enough to avoid tipping and are available in a variety of widths to fit the space you have. Some shelves feature a curved corner that stops spills and falling.
Another option is stacking the microwave on top of an oven that is a match in a cabinet of mid-height. This is a common setup and is ideal for Transitional style kitchens. Most manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave lines up with the oven's depth. These kits come in louvered and flat designs and can be mounted flush or proud of the millwork.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to choose a design that blends with the rest of your layout. The countertop is a huge footprint that can be a hindrance to the design of your kitchen. There are many ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without sacrificing counter space or storage.
Installing an appliance or cabinet garage, to conceal the microwave when it is not being used is an option. This option is particularly useful in smaller kitchens where wall space is constrained. This type of cabinet can be customized to match your kitchen's trim and door design, providing an elegant and unique appearance.
You can also conceal your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat, uncluttered look while keeping it easily accessible. This type of placement is ideal for a small kitchen, and can be paired with other cabinets for pantry storage to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves have racks or turntables built-in which allow you to cook multiple dishes at once. These features help make it more efficient and useful. It's important that you only use microwave-safe cookware, utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid metal containers or cookware with metallic accents, since these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in a drawer or cabinet might have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. It is important that you consult with your contractor to ensure that proper venting is specified. A microwave shouldn't be installed directly in front of windows as it can block them and prevent ventilation.
There are several other ways to incorporate a microwave into your kitchen layout, including mounting it under the counter or tucking it away on an island. The microwave that is built into drawers is ideal for kitchens with small counter space. It can be easily accessed by users of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This method is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. To finish the installation Kitchen Designers can utilize a trim kit to cover any gaps around the unit. They are available in louvered and flat styles and can be customized to the oven you have.
Cost
A small built-in microwave oven is a great option to upgrade your kitchen. It's stylish and function. Find designs and finishes that match your home's décor. Also look for features such as auto defrost and cooking settings. Timer options are also helpful. built in ovens and microwaves come with designs that help them resist fingerprints, so you can keep them looking clean.
Countertop microwaves are handy however they can occupy valuable counterspace and limit the design and functionality of your kitchen. If integrated combination microwave oven is the case, you may think about an recessed microwave that could be installed inside your cabinetry. This will give it a sleek and custom look. A small built in microwave oven that is installed on a kitchen island can also give you more space while giving an attractive, integrated look. It is important to remember that a microwave with a recess needs enough airflow around its sides and rear to function properly.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and what kind of food items you cook most frequently when deciding where to place it. If you prepare mostly pizzas and frozen meals select a model with an increased wattage to heat the food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require a more delicate heating, look into an appliance with a lower wattage to avoid scorching and overcooking.
If you're unable to squeeze your microwave inside a cabinet or prefer a more compact model, you can install a small, portable stand. They have the capacity to support the microwave and keep it up straight, and they're usually designed to ward off fingerprints for a clean appearance. They're a cheap and easy option that can be used as an interim microwave solution until you locate a permanent home for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to put an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, which can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. While this is a convenient way to reduce space however, it is not recommended for homes with small children or elderly residents who need easy access to the kitchen. Additionally, a corner microwave should not be placed in front of windows because it could block the airflow and break the glass in the situation of an emergency.