How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
The idea of putting your microwave in a cabinet or on the wall will save counter space and provide you with more work surface. Built-in models integrate seamlessly for sleek kitchens of all sizes.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven comes with 10 power settings and presets that are for popular foods such as pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a smart sensor that determines cooking time based on the weight of food and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance for cooking or warming meals. They are typically high-powered, and can heat food quickly and evenly. The key is to find the right microwave oven for your needs. Take into consideration features like size power, design, and control options. Some models have large icons on the display that help you select the right settings, while other models have a smooth control panel that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable you choose are also important features to consider.
When you are choosing a small microwave, it's important to consider the internal capacity of the machine. The typical countertop microwave measures 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food in one go, but it will take longer to heat. You should also check the dimensions of the exterior to ensure that it will fit into your desired location.
There are three types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves use electromagnetic radiation to heat the food, and are best for standard uses such as reheating leftovers and freezing frozen food items. Convection microwaves are designed to roast and bake, and usually come with a fan and heating elements that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a conventional and convection microwave in one unit.
It is not enough to pay attention to wattage, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage required for a microwave oven is 800 watts, while the maximum is 1,200 watts. Avoid buying a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts as it will not properly cook your food.
If you're trying to reduce the size of your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave inside your cabinetry. This can help you save counter space and will make your home look more elegant. You can get trim kits which make your microwave appear to be part of the cabinet. These are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves however they are easier to access and can provide your kitchen with a premium look.
Convenience
A small built in microwave oven is a great method of heating beverages and food. It saves space on the counter and makes space for meal preparation. It is important to select one that has the features you need. A lot of models come with racks, a turntable, and other accessories which make cooking more convenient and more efficient. Some models have a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking and adds crisp texture.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and styles that will fit into any kitchen design. Some models feature doors that are recessed, which blend into the cabinetry to give the appearance of a custom. To choose the best location for your microwave, it's important to think about the frequency of use and who will be using it. It is also important to ensure that the space is big enough to allow adequate ventilation, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
A common place to store microwaves is above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it could be risky for smaller children and requires you to take down and dispose of the microwave each time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in an extra cabinet. This is a great solution for people with limited space on their countertops and provides an unobtrusive, seamless look. It's also a great option for those who don't wish to purchase microwave drawers but need a convenient place to cook food and beverages.
Alternately, you can put in a pull-out pantry shelf designed to accommodate microwaves. These shelves are thick enough to avoid tipping and come in a variety widths to fit your space. Some options even have an angled edge to stop spills and tipping.
Another option is to place the microwave above an identical wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a classic design and looks stunning in Transitional kitchens. Many manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave lines up with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat designs and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
It's important to choose a design which integrates the built-in microwave into the kitchen layout. The huge footprint it leaves on the countertop can detract from the appearance of your kitchen. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to hide this versatile small appliance, without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
One option is to install cabinets or an appliance garage to hide the microwave when it's not being used. This solution is especially useful 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.
You can also hide your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This design is perfect for small kitchens. It can be combined with a pantry cabinet to make the most of storage space.
Some microwaves come with built-in racks or turntables that allow you to cook a variety of dishes at once. These features make the appliance more useful and save time. It is important to use only microwave-safe cooking equipment and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid using metallic containers or cookware with metallic accents. These can cause sparks which can damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in a drawer or cabinet may have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. However, it is essential to talk to your contractor to ensure that proper venting is in place. best integrated microwave oven should not be placed directly in front of windows as it can block them and prevent ventilation.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by putting it under a counter or hiding it on an island. The microwave that is built into drawers is a great option for kitchens with small counter space. It can be easily accessed by users of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave on top of a built-in wall oven. This kind of setup is ideal for Transitional or Traditional-style kitchens. To finish the installation Kitchen Designers can make use of trim kits to cover any gaps around the unit. These kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be customized to the oven you have.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen appliance, adding style and functionality to your new kitchen design. Choose models and finishes that are in harmony with the decor of your home. Also look for features such as automatic defrost or cooking settings. The timer option is also beneficial. Some microwaves also have designs that can ward off fingerprints, so you can keep them clean.
While countertop microwaves are easy to use, they take up valuable counter space which can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If you're worried about this, think about an recessed model that could be incorporated into the cabinetry for a sleek, unique appearance. A small built in microwave oven in a kitchen island can also give you more space while giving an attractive, integrated look. It is important to remember that a microwave with a recess needs enough airflow around its sides and rear to perform effectively.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and what kind of food items you cook most frequently when deciding where to put it. If you cook mostly pizzas and frozen meals select a model with an increased wattage to cook your food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or foods that require a less delicate heat, opt for the lower wattage model to prevent overcooking.
If you're not able to fit your microwave into an existing cabinet or prefer a smaller model, you can set it up on a small, movable stand. They are designed with a base to support the microwave, hold it upright and often come with a surface that is resistant to fingerprints. They're a low-cost and practical alternative that can be used as a temporary microwave solution until you find a more permanent location for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to put an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, where it can double as a mini-hood for your stove. This is a great method to reduce space, but it's not recommended for homes with elderly or children who require access to their kitchens. A corner microwave shouldn't be placed in front of a window because it could block the ventilation and can shatter the glass in the situation of an emergency.