How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Save counter space and reclaim space for work surfaces by moving your microwave to a recessed cavity in the wall or cabinetry. Built-in models are integrable to give the appearance of a sleek kitchen of all sizes.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven comes with 10 power settings and presets for popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that calculates the cooking time in relation to 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 usually high-powered and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is crucial to select the best microwave to meet your needs. Some features to consider include size and design, power level and the control options. Some models come with large icons to assist you in selecting the right setting, while others have smooth controls that are easy to see under different lighting conditions. The number of racks, and the type of turntable are also important features to consider.
When choosing a micro that is small it is crucial to take into account the machine's internal capacity. The average countertop microwave can hold a capacity of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food in one go, but it will 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 integrated microwave oven of microwaves: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves make use of electromagnetic radiation to cook food items, and are ideal for everyday use such as reheating leftovers, or defrosting frozen foods. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast food, and they usually have an element of heating and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a traditional and convection microwave in one unit.
You shouldn't just pay attention to power, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage required for an oven in the microwave range 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 option will reduce counter space and make your home look more refined. You can even purchase trim kits to make your microwave appear like it's part cabinets. These are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves but they're much easier to use and provide your kitchen with a premium look.
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 allows for more space to cook meals. But, it's essential to make sure that you select a model with the right features for your needs. A lot of models come with racks, a turntable, and other equipment which make cooking more convenient and more efficient. Certain models come with an oven tray that is crisper and more like traditional oven baking and gives a crispy texture.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the style of your kitchen. Some models even feature a concealed door that blends in with the cabinetry for a custom look. To choose the best location for your microwave, it's essential to consider the frequency you'll use it and who will use it. Also, you'll want to make sure that there is enough room for ventilation according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
Above the refrigerator is a popular place to store a microwave. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it is dangerous for shorter individuals or children, and requires you to take down and clean the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave in a separate cabinet. This is a great option for those with a limited counter space. It also gives an unobtrusive and seamless appearance. It's also a good option for people who don't want to buy microwave drawers but need a convenient place to warm food and drinks.
Alternately, you can put in an open-top pantry shelf designed to accommodate microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit in any space, and are deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some shelves have a curved corner that prevents spills and tumbling.
Another option is to stack the microwave above the wall oven that is a match in a mid-height cabinet. This is a classic installation and works well in Transitional style kitchens. The majority of manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be installed on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
It's important to choose an option that integrates the built-in microwave into your kitchen layout. The huge footprint it leaves on the countertop can detract from the appearance of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to conceal this small appliance without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
Installing cabinets, or an appliance garage, to hide the microwave when not being used is an option. This option is especially beneficial in kitchens that are small and have limited wall space. This type of cabinet is adjustable to be in line with the door and trim style in your kitchen, giving it the appearance of a custom-designed kitchen.
Another method to hide the microwave is to place it into your pantry cabinetry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered look and keeps it within easy reach. This design is perfect for small kitchens. It can be paired with a pantry cabinet to maximize storage.
Some microwaves come with built-in turntables or racks that allow you to cook a variety of dishes at once. These features make the appliance more efficient and help you save time. However, it's important to only use microwave-safe cooking utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid cooking and cookware made of metal or with metallic accents, since these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed inside drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that work well in these enclosed spaces. Consult your contractor to ensure the venting is specified correctly. In addition it is not recommended that a microwave be placed directly in the window's direction, since this could hinder ventilation.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by putting it on a counter or hidden in an island. The drawer-style microwave is ideal for kitchens with small counter space. It is easily accessible by anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a built in wall oven. This kind of setup is ideal for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers might opt to utilize a trim kit in the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits are available in flat and louvered styles and can be used in conjunction with your oven.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be an attractive kitchen upgrade, adding both style and functionality to your new kitchen design. Find models and finishes that complement your home's decor. Also look for features such as auto defrost and cook settings. Timer options can be useful. Certain microwaves come with designs that resist fingerprints and look clean.
While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space and could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're worried about this, you might want to consider an recessed model that could be incorporated into your cabinetry for a sleek, unique appearance. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven in your kitchen isle can also provide more space and an attractive integrated appearance. However, it's important to note that a recessed microwave requires adequate air clearance around its sides and rear to perform properly.
Consider how often you use your microwave and what kind of food items you cook most often before deciding where to place it. If built in oven and microwave prepare mostly pizzas and frozen meals select a model with an increased wattage to cook food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require delicate heating, consider an appliance with a lower wattage that will avoid scorching and overcooking.
Install a small, portable stand if it's not possible to fit the microwave in cabinets or you prefer a smaller. These stands are designed with a base designed to support the microwave, hold it in a straight position and typically have a fingerprint-resistant surface. These stands are a convenient and inexpensive choice that can be used to store your microwave until you can find the right place for it in the kitchen.
Another alternative is to install a microwave in the corner of your kitchen, where it can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. While this is a convenient way to save space, it's not recommended for homes with small children or elderly residents who require easy access to the kitchen. Moreover, a corner microwave should not be placed directly in front of windows since it may block airflow and break the glass in the case in the event of an emergency.