How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
The idea of putting your microwave in an area in the cabinetry or on the wall will save 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 and presets for the most popular foods like popcorn, pizza and frozen vegetables. It also has a smart-sensor that calculates the cooking time based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave with a built-in microwave is an excellent kitchen appliance to cook and reheating food items. Most microwaves are powerful and can heat foods quickly and evenly. The key is to find the best microwave oven for your needs. A few features to think about are size and power level, design, and options for controlling. Some models have large icons on the display that assist you in selecting the best options, while others have sleek control panels that are easy to read under different lighting conditions. Other things to consider are the number of racks available and the kind of turntable.
When you are choosing a small microwave it is important to take a look at the interior capacity of the appliance. The average countertop microwave can hold a capacity of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. built in microwaves can cook more food at one time, but it will take longer to heat. You should also check the dimensions of the exterior to make sure it fits in the desired space.
There are three primary types of microwave ovens: conventional, convection, and oven. Conventional microwaves utilize electromagnetic radiation to cook food items, and are best for standard uses such as reheating leftovers, or defrosting frozen items. Convection microwaves are a great option to bake or roast food items. They usually have an element of heating as well as an air-flow fan which circulates hot air around. In addition, an oven microwave combines the functions of a traditional and convection microwave into a single unit.
It is not enough to be aware of the wattage, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage of microwaves is 800, and the maximum power is 1,200. Beware of purchasing a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts, since it won't be able to cook your food.
Installing a built-in micro within your cabinetry is an excellent option to reduce space. This will help you help you save counter space and will make your home appear more sophisticated. Trim kits are available that make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These options are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves, but they're more accessible and give your kitchen a high-end appearance.
Convenience
A small microwave that is that is built into a countertop provides a convenient and easy way to heat up food and beverages. It frees up space on the counter and gives more space to prepare meals. But, it's essential to make sure that you select one that has the best features for your requirements. Many models include racks and a turntable along with other equipment to help cook more easily. Certain models also come with a crisper pan that resembles traditional oven baking, adding a crispy texture to food items.
Microwaves come in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the design of your kitchen. Some models feature doors that are recessed and blend into the cabinetry to give it a custom appearance. To determine the ideal location for your microwave, it's essential to think about how often you'll use it and who will be using it. Also, you'll need to make sure that there is enough room for ventilation according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
A common place to store microwaves is above the refrigerator. This keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easy to reach. However, it is dangerous for shorter individuals or children and requires you to remove and clean the microwave each time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave in an extra cabinet. This is a great option for those with a limited counter space. It also offers an elegant and subtle appearance. This is a great solution for those who don't have enough space to install a microwave, but still want a reliable method to cook food and beverages.
Alternatively, you can install an open-top pantry shelf designed to accommodate a microwave. These shelves are wide enough to fit any space and deep enough to prevent them from tipping. Some shelves have a curved corner that prevents spills and tumbling.
Another option is to stack the microwave above an identical wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This installation is classic and looks great in Transitional kitchens. Many manufacturers offer trim kits to ensure that the microwave aligns with the oven's depth. These kits come in louvered and flat styles and can be put in on top or flush with the millwork.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to find a style that integrates it into the rest of your layout. Its large footprint on the countertop can detract from design of your kitchen. There are a variety of ways to conceal this versatile small appliance without having to sacrifice the counter space or storage space.
Installing cabinets, or an appliance garage, to hide the microwave when not in use is a possibility. This solution is especially useful for kitchens with small wall space. This kind of cabinet can be customized to match your kitchen's trim and door style, offering a sleek custom look.
Another method to hide a microwave is to incorporate it into your pantry cabinetry. This gives a neat and uncluttered appearance and keeps it easily accessible. This type of placement is perfect for a smaller kitchen and may be paired with other cabinets for pantry storage to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves come with built-in turntables or racks that allow you to cook several dishes at once. These features make the appliance more useful and save time. However, it's important to use microwave-safe cooking equipment and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid cooking and cookware made of metal or with metallic accents as they can spark and damage the microwave.
Microwaves that are designed to be installed in drawers or cabinets can have venting systems that are compatible in these enclosed spaces. Consult your contractor to ensure that the venting is properly specified. A microwave should not be installed near windows, as it can block them and prevent ventilation.
There are a variety of ways to incorporate a microwave into your kitchen layout by putting it on the counter or hiding it away on an island. A microwave that is built like a drawer is a great option for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it can be easily accessed by people of all heights.
Another option is to place the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This type of installation is ideal for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. To complete the installation, Kitchen Designers can make use of a trim kit to fill in any gaps around the unit. They are available in louvered and flat styles and can be matched to the oven you have.
Cost
A small built in microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen appliance, adding style and functionality to your kitchen's new design. Choose designs and finishes that match your home's decor. Also look for features like automatic defrost or cooking settings. Timer options are also useful. Certain microwaves come with designs that are resistant to fingerprints, and look clean.
While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space that can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If you're concerned about this, consider a recessed model that can be fitted inside your cabinetry for an elegant, customized look. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven inside a kitchen island could also give more space and an attractive integrated appearance. It is important to keep in mind that a microwave with a recess needs sufficient airflow around the sides and back to work effectively.
When determining where to place your microwave, take into consideration how often you'll use it and what type of food you cook. If you're cooking mostly frozen dinners and pizza choose a higher wattage microwave that can heat food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or other foods that require delicate heating, you should consider a lower wattage unit to avoid overcooking and scorching.
If you're not able to fit your microwave into cabinets or prefer a more compact model, you can install a small, movable stand. They are designed with a base that can hold the microwave in place, and keep it upright and often feature a non-smudge surface. They're an inexpensive and convenient alternative that can be used as a temporary microwave solution until you find a permanent place for it in your kitchen.
A small microwave can be added to the corner of your home, where it will double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a practical method of reducing space however, it is not recommended for homes with small children or elderly people who require access to the kitchen easily. Additionally, a corner microwave shouldn't be placed in front of windows because it could block the airflow and break the glass in the situation in the event of an emergency.