How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave

A microwave that is placed in a cabinet, or under the counter, frees space and provides your kitchen with a seamless appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and near other appliances such as an oven that is wall-mounted is simple.

Choose from a variety of door styles, such as right-to-left swing-out or drop-down models that open the same way as a drawer for cabinets. Think about other options, too.

Capacity

Microwaves come in a wide range of capacities and sizes to suit any kitchen. Choose from built-in, compact, countertop and low-profile microwaves. These models make mealtimes easier by incorporating features such as sensor cooking and a slim trim kit that saves counter space. Some models have an adjustable turntable which allows loading and unloading to be done more easily.

Consider the size of your household and whether you will use the microwave to heat up larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll need a bigger capacity microwave with grill built in to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire, for example, can accommodate large dinner platters and plates.

The power level is another important factor to consider when choosing the right microwave oven built in combo. Choose models that have higher watts to cook food faster and more evenly. Some microwaves offer various power levels, allowing you to alter the heat output depending on the food you're cooking.

Microwave dimensions vary by type, and usually include the exterior width, height, and depth, along with interior capacity. When looking for a microwave, the dimensions of the exterior are helpful as they provide you with an idea of what you can expect. However, the interior capacity is typically listed separately on each product page and can be more helpful in determining which model is right for your home.

The interior space of a small built in microwave varies from model to model but the majority will have an overall diameter of 24 inches with the door closed. The widths could be a bit smaller to fit the standard dimensions of cutouts for cabinets and are in line with models that are over-the-range. Height and depth vary among models, but all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow for ventilation.

Find the area where you would like to place the microwave in and clear any obstructions. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch between the microwave and the wall for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge and the open doors to avoid tipping.

Design

When selecting the ideal small built-in microwave, it is important to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will work in the space. There are a variety of ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen, including mounting it on a wall, placing it underneath the counter in a drawer-style arrangement, or even in the cabinetry. This will allow the appliance to blend in with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated combination microwave look.

Choosing the right door style is also an important consideration. Many microwave models have a swinging door that swings from left to right or drop-down doors, or a drawer. These options allow easy access to the appliance for those of all heights and can reduce counter space. In addition to these convenient features, certain microwaves feature premium features that can provide the look and feel of a luxury to your kitchen.

It is also essential to be aware of the amount of power that is required for cooking certain meals. Most microwaves will display a power rating at the back of the unit. A model that has more watts allows for faster cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings that are more energy efficient. However, they will take longer to cook or heat food.

Installing a small built-in microwave inside an existing cabinet is among the easiest ways to integrate it. They are available at various price points, but they sit in a flush position against the cabinet to give it an elegant look. To ensure that the installation will function properly it is crucial to study the owner's manual as well as instructions for installation for the microwave model you're contemplating.

Another option is to put the microwave on a wall for example, in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern look that can help bring brightness to the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will collaborate with the homeowner to determine the most effective place for the microwave. However, it is important to remember that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on each side and back for it to work correctly.

Power

Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can carry out a variety of tasks quickly and efficiently. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can affect the speed and consistency with which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage microwaves will heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves built in.

Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets in your kitchen, giving them an elegant, sleek look that blends seamlessly with other appliances and space. Additionally you can find built-in models that are designed to take up less space and still provide ample room inside for tall glasses, large dishes and other items.

You can also pick from a variety of control options that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can pick models that have sensor-cooking options to make mealtimes easier. Other features include doors that can be opened with a tap and a sleek, slim design that makes them easier to fit into tight spaces.

Installation

Microwaves that are built into the cabinets and island structures provide a sleek look that eliminates the appliance from your counters, thereby freeing up valuable counter space. They generally require professional installation however, they allow you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They also require less space than freestanding microwaves, which makes them more suited to small spaces or corners.

Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the model you select. You will learn how much ventilation space you require in addition to the tools and materials required to complete the task. Based on the model of your house, the electrical system may require modification. If you're planning to complete the installation yourself, [Redirect Only] be sure to shut off your home's power before beginning the work.

First, you must prepare the cabinet space by removing any decorative trim that might interfere with placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that there are no other appliances in the area. Utilize a stud locater to locate wall studs beneath the cabinet in which you intend to mount the microwave. You can also tap the wall gently with a hammer in order to locate studs. When you hear a distinct sound it means you've located the wall stud. Once you've found the locations of wall studs, mark them with an eraser and a level. If your microwave came with an old-fashioned cardboard template, place it over the upper cabinet to serve as a guideline to drill holes for the mounting plate.

Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They'll tell you what you have to do in order to have proper ventilation, like raising the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through an exterior wall or cabinet, or [Redirect Only] even an island.

Installing a built-in microwave requires an assistant to support the appliance as you attach it to the wall. It is recommended to use screws that are able to support the weight of the built-in microwave, such as lag bolts (also known as toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall using these screws and then run the power cord through a hole drilled for this purpose.