How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reclaim counter space and the space you have for work by moving your microwave to a recessible space in the cabinetry or wall. Built-in microwaves are a fantastic option for kitchens of any size. They seamlessly blend into the wall or cabinetry.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets to cook popular foods like popcorn, pizza and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that calculates the cooking time based on the weight of food and density.
Power
A small built-in microwave oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance for cooking and warming food. These appliances are typically high-powered and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is essential to select the best microwave to meet your needs. Think about features such as size power, design, and control options. Some models have large icons on the display to assist you in selecting the best options, while others have a smooth control panel that are easy to read under different lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks and the type of turntable.
When selecting a small microwave it is essential to take into account the machine's internal 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, however it could take longer to heat. It is also important to check the exterior dimensions to ensure that it will fit into your desired location.
There are three types of microwaves: convection conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are perfect for standard uses for reheating leftovers and defrosting food. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast, and they usually have heating elements and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. A microwave oven blends the functions of conventional and convection microwave into one.
While wattage is an important aspect, you must also be aware of the power levels of the minimum and maximum levels of your microwave oven. The minimum power level for microwave ovens is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're looking to purchase a new microwave, avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts since it will not cook your food properly.
Installing a built-in micro in your cabinetry is a great option to reduce space. This will free up counter space and will make your kitchen appear more elegant. You can even get trim kits to make your microwave appear like it's part of the cabinets. These are more expensive than countertop microwaves and over the range models, but easier to use and can give your home a the look of a luxury.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a convenient method to heat beverages and food. It can save space on the counter and makes space for meal preparation. It's important that you select one that comes with the features you require. Many models come with racks, a turntable and other features which make cooking more convenient and more efficient. Some models come with a crisper tray that simulates traditional oven baking and gives a crispy texture.
Microwaves come in various sizes and finishes to suit the design of your kitchen. Some models have doors that are recessed, which blend into the cabinetry, giving it a custom appearance. It is crucial to consider the frequency and purpose you'll use your microwave before deciding on the ideal place to put it. You should also ensure that the space is large enough to allow for ventilation, in accordance with the directions of the manufacturer of your microwave.
A popular method of storing microwaves is to place them above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off the counter and makes it easier to reach. It can be dangerous to children or people who are shorter, and you will need to remove and store the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave in a cabinet. This is a great solution for those with limited countertop space and offers a seamless, unobtrusive look. It's also a good option for those who don't want to invest in microwave drawers but require a space to cook food and beverages.
Alternately, you can put in an open-top pantry shelf designed to fit a microwave. These shelves are large enough to fit in any space, and deep enough to prevent them from tipping. Some shelves even have an angled edge to prevent spills and tipping.
Another option is to place the microwave above a matching wall oven in a mid-height cabinet. This is a common setup and works well in Transitional style kitchens. Many manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be mounted either flush or in the millwork.
Design
It is crucial to select a design which integrates the built-in microwave into the kitchen layout. Placing where to buy built in microwave on the countertop is a huge footprint that detracts from the aesthetic of your kitchen. There are a variety of ways to hide this small appliance, without sacrificing the counter space or storage.
One option is to install cabinets or an appliance garage to hide the microwave when it's not being used. This solution is particularly effective for kitchens with smaller walls where wall space is a problem. This type of cabinet can be customised to match the trim of your kitchen and door style, offering a sleek custom design.
Another method to hide 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 kind of arrangement is perfect for a small kitchen. It can be used with a pantry cabinet to maximize storage.
Certain microwaves have racks or turntables that are built in that allow you cook multiple dishes at once. These features make the appliance even more efficient and can save you time. However, it's important to only use microwave-safe cooking equipment and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid using containers made of metal or cookware with metallic accents. They can spark that could cause damage to the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed inside drawers or cabinets can have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. Ask your contractor to make sure that the venting is properly specified. A microwave shouldn't be placed directly in front of windows because it could block windows and block venting.
There are several other ways to incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design such as putting it under the counter or hiding it away in an island. The drawer-style microwave can be an ideal option for kitchens with small counter space. It is easily accessible to anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This setup is perfect for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can use a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. They are available in louvered and flat styles and can be customized to match your oven.
Cost
A small built-in microwave oven is a great way to upgrade your kitchen. It adds style and utility. Look for designs and finishes that match your home's decor. Also, look for features like automatic defrost or cook settings. The timer option is also beneficial. Certain microwaves also come with designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, so you can keep them looking clean.
While countertop microwaves are easy to use, they take up valuable counter space and could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're concerned about this, think about a recessed model that can be incorporated into your cabinetry to create a sleek, custom appearance. Installing a small microwave oven inside a kitchen island can provide more space and a sleek integrated appearance. However, it's important to keep in mind that a recessed microwave requires adequate air clearance around its sides and the rear to perform correctly.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and the type of food you cook most frequently when deciding where to place it. If you prepare mostly pizzas and frozen meals select a model with more power that will cook food quickly and evenly. If you are cooking vegetables or foods that need a more delicate heat, opt for an appliance with lower watts to avoid overcooking.
Install a small, mobile stand if you're unable to fit the microwave inside cabinets or you prefer a smaller model. These stands come with 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 an inexpensive and convenient option that can serve as a temporary microwave solution until you can find a permanent place for it in your kitchen.
Another option is to add an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, which can be used as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a practical way to save space, it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly people who need access to the kitchen easily. Additionally, a corner microwave should not be placed in front of windows since it may block airflow and break the glass in the case of an emergency.