How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Moving your microwave into a cabinet or on the wall will save counter space and give you more work surfaces. Built-in microwaves are an excellent 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 food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen veggies. It also comes with a smart-sensor that calculates the cooking time according to the weight of food and density.
Power
A microwave oven with a small built-in microwave is a great kitchen appliance for cooking and reheating food items. Typically, these appliances are high-powered and can heat foods quickly and evenly. It is essential to select the best microwave for your needs. The features you should consider include size, power level, design, and the control options. Certain models have large icons on the display to assist you in selecting the best settings, while others have a smooth control panel that are easy to read under different lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable are essential aspects to consider.
When choosing a small microwave it is essential to look at the interior capacity of the machine. The typical countertop microwave has a capacity of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food at a time, but it may take longer to heat. It is also important to look at the exterior dimensions of a small microwave to ensure that it can be placed in the space you want it to be.
There are three types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are great for normal uses for cooking leftovers and defrosting food. Convection microwaves can be used to bake or roast food. They usually come with a heating element and a fan which circulates hot air around it. A microwave oven blends the functions of conventional and convection microwave into one unit.
You should not only pay attention to wattage, but also the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage for an oven in the microwave range is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're looking to purchase a new microwave, you should avoid buying a model that has less than 1,000 watts because it will not cook your food properly.
If you're looking for a way to save space in your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave inside your cabinetry. This option will save you counter space and make your kitchen look more sophisticated. Trim kits are available which make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These options are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range however they are easier to access and can give your kitchen a high-end appearance.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a convenient method to heat food and drinks. It helps to free up space on the counter and provides more space to cook meals. It is essential to choose a model that has the features you need. A lot of models have racks and a turntable, and other kitchen accessories to make cooking more convenient. Certain models also come with a crisper pan that resembles traditional oven baking, bringing crispness to food items.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will suit any kitchen design. Some models have doors that are recessed and blend into the cabinetry to give the appearance of a custom. To choose the best location for your microwave, it's essential to think about the frequency of use and who will use it. Also, you'll want to ensure that there's enough room for ventilation in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.
A common place to store microwaves is to place them above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off the counter and makes it easier to reach. It could be dangerous for shorter people or children and you will need to take it off and store the microwave each time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in a spare cabinet. This is an excellent solution for those who have little counter space. It also provides an unobtrusive and seamless appearance. This is a great option for those who don't have enough space to install a microwave but still want a convenient way to heat up food and beverages.
Alternately, you can put in a pull-out pantry shelf designed to accommodate microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit any space, and deep enough to stop them from tipping. Some shelves have a curving corner that prevents spills and tumbling.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a matching wall-oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This installation is classic and looks stunning in Transitional kitchens. The majority of manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat designs and can be installed on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave is a convenient kitchen appliance, but you need to find a style that blends with the rest of your kitchen layout. The large footprint of the counter can detract from the aesthetics of your kitchen. There are a myriad of ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without having to sacrifice the counter space or storage.
One option is to install an appliance garage or cabinet to conceal the microwave when it's not in use. This option is particularly useful for kitchens with smaller walls where wall space is constrained. This type of cabinet is customizable to fit the trim and door style in your kitchen, giving it a sleek custom appearance.
Another method to hide microwaves is to put it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered look and keeps it easily accessible. This design is perfect for the kitchen with a small space. It can be paired with a different pantry cabinet to make the most of storage space.
Certain microwaves have built-in racks or turntables that let you to cook several dishes at once. These features make it more efficient and useful. It is crucial to use microwave-safe cookware, utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid using metal containers or cookware that has metallic accents. These can cause sparks which could damage the microwave.
Microwaves that are designed to be installed inside drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that work in these enclosed spaces. Consult your contractor to make sure the venting system is correctly specified. A microwave shouldn't be placed directly in front of windows since it could block them and block venting.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by mounting it under a counter or tucking it away on an island. A microwave with a drawer is a great choice for kitchens with limited counter space because it is easily accessible by people of all heights.
Another option is to place the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This method is ideal for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can use a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits are available in flat and louvered styles, and can be matched to your oven.
Cost
A small built in microwave oven can be a stunning kitchen upgrade, adding both design and function to your kitchen's new design. Look for models and finishes that are in harmony with the decor of your home. Also look for features such as auto defrost and cooking settings. The timer option is also useful. Some microwaves have designs that help them resist fingerprints, so you can keep them looking pristine.
While microwaves for countertop use are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space and could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're worried about this, consider a recessed model that can be installed within your cabinetry to create an elegant, customized appearance. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven in your kitchen island could also give more workspace and a stylish integrated appearance. However, it's important to note that a recessed microwave requires sufficient air space around the sides and the rear to work correctly.
Consider how often you will make use of your microwave and what type of food you cook most frequently when deciding where to place it. If built in microwave deals preparing mostly pizza and frozen dinners then you should consider the highest watt microwave that can heat food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require delicate heating, look into a lower wattage unit that will avoid overcooking and scorching.
Install a small, portable stand if you are unable to fit the microwave into cabinets or prefer a smaller model. These stands come with a base to hold the microwave in place, and keep it up straight and usually have a fingerprint-resistant surface. These stands are a handy and inexpensive option that can be used to temporarily keep your microwave in storage until you find a permanent place for it in the kitchen.
Another option is to add an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, where it can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. While this is a great way to save space, it's not recommended for homes with small children or elderly residents who require easy access to the kitchen. A corner microwave should not be set in front of windows, as it could hinder ventilation and break glass in an emergency.