How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reclaim counter space and work surface area by relocating your microwave to a recessed space in the cabinetry or wall. Built-in models are integrable to give the appearance of a sleek kitchen of all sizes.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven has 10 power settings, as well as presets for the most common foods like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a smart sensor that calculates the cooking time based on food weight and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance that can be used for cooking or warming meals. The majority of these appliances are powerful and can heat foods quickly and evenly. The key is to find the ideal microwave oven that meets your needs. The features you should consider include size and design, power level, and the control options. Certain models have large icons to aid you in choosing the best setting, while others have smooth controls that are easy to see in various lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable are also important features to consider.
When choosing a small microwave, it's important to consider the internal capacity of the appliance. The typical countertop microwave is able to hold of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food at a time, however it could take longer to heat. You should also examine the dimensions on the outside to ensure that it fits in the desired space.
There are three kinds of microwaves: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for standard uses for cooking leftovers and defrosting food. Convection microwaves are designed to roast and bake, and typically have an element of heating and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. Additionally, an oven microwave combines the functions of a conventional and convection microwave into one unit.
You shouldn't just focus on the wattage, 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.
If you're seeking a way to save space in your kitchen, you should consider installing a built-in microwave in your cabinetry. This option will reduce counter space and make your home look more elegant. You can get trim kits that make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These options are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range, but they're easier to use and give your kitchen a luxurious look.
Convenience
A small built in microwave oven is a handy method to heat drinks and food. It helps to save space on countertops and allows room for meal prep. However, it's important to ensure that you select a model with the right features for your requirements. A lot of models come with racks, a turntable, and other accessories which make cooking more convenient and more efficient. Some models also have an oven that is crisper, which mimics traditional oven baking, providing a crispy texture to food items.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that can be adapted to any kitchen design. Some models feature recessed doors that blend into the cabinetry, giving it a custom appearance. To determine the ideal location for your microwave, you need to think about the frequency you'll use it and who will use it. Additionally, you'll need make sure that there is enough room for ventilation in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.
Above the refrigerator, there is the most popular spot to store microwaves. This keeps the microwave from being a mess and makes it easier to reach. However, it can be dangerous for shorter individuals or children and requires you to take down and put away the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to store the microwave in a cabinet that is not used. This is a great option for those who have little counter space. It also gives a seamless and unobtrusive appearance. It's also a great 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 shelves that pull out to fit a microwave. These shelves are thick enough to stop tipping, and are available in a variety of widths to fit your space. Some models even have an angled edge to prevent spills and tipping.
Another option is to stack the microwave on top of a matching wall-oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a classic installation and works well in Transitional style kitchens. Most manufacturers offer trim kit to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat designs and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to choose a design that integrates it with the rest of your kitchen design. The large footprint of the counter can detract from the design of your kitchen. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to hide this versatile small appliance, without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
Another option is to build a cabinet or appliance garage to hide the microwave when it's not in use. This is particularly useful for small kitchens with limited wall space. This type of cabinet is customizable to match the trim and door style in your kitchen, giving it a a sleek custom appearance.
You can also hide your microwave by adding it to the cabinetry of your pantry. This offers a clean and uncluttered look and keeps it easily accessible. This type of design is perfect for a small kitchen. It can also be combined with other cabinets for pantry storage to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves come with built-in turntables or racks that allow you to cook several dishes at once. These features make the appliance even more efficient and help you save time. It is crucial to use microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid using containers made of metal or cookware with metallic accents. These can create sparks that could cause damage to the microwave.
Microwaves specifically designed to be mounted inside drawers or cabinets can have venting systems that work with these enclosed spaces. However, it's critical to consult your contractor to ensure that the proper venting is specified. A microwave shouldn't be placed near windows, because it could block windows and block the airflow.
ovens with built in microwave can also incorporate a microwave in your kitchen layout by placing it under the counter or hiding it in an island. A drawer-style microwave is a great choice for kitchens with a limited counter space since it is easily accessible by people of all heights.
Another option is stacking the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This type of installation is perfect for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers might opt to use a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. These kits are available in flat and louvered styles and can be combined to your oven.
Cost
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a great option to modernize your kitchen. It is stylish and utility. Choose models and finishes that complement your home's decor. Also look for features like automatic defrost or cook settings. Timer options are also useful. Some microwaves have designs that can ward off fingerprints, allowing you to keep them looking pristine.
While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space that could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're worried about this, consider an recessed model that could be incorporated into your cabinetry to create a sleek, custom appearance. Installing a small microwave oven in a kitchen island could also give more space and a sleek integrated appearance. It's important to note that a recessed microwave needs adequate air clearance around its sides and the rear to perform properly.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and what type of food you cook the most often when deciding where to put it. If you cook mostly frozen meals and pizzas, choose a microwave with an increased wattage to cook your food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or other food items that require a more delicate heating, look into using a smaller wattage model to avoid overcooking and scorching.
Install a small, mobile stand if it's not possible to fit the microwave inside the cabinet or you prefer a smaller model. These stands have a base that can support the microwave and keep it upright, and they're typically designed to block fingerprints for a clean appearance. These stands are a handy and inexpensive option that can be used to keep your microwave in storage until you can find an appropriate place to put it in the kitchen.
Another alternative is to put 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 convenient way to reduce space, it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who require easy access to the kitchen. A corner microwave should not be placed in front of windows, as it could hinder ventilation and shatter glass in an emergency.