How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reduce counter space and the space you have for work by moving your microwave to a recessible space in the wall or cabinetry. Built-in microwaves are a great option for kitchens of any size. They blend seamlessly into the cabinetry or wall.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that calculates the cooking time based on food weight and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a wonderful kitchen appliance for cooking or heating meals. Typically, these appliances are powerful and can cook food quickly and evenly. The trick is to choose the best microwave oven for your needs. Some features to consider include size and design, power level, and control options. Certain models have large icons that aid you in choosing the best settings, while others feature smooth controls that are easy to spot in different lighting conditions. Other aspects to consider include the number of racks available and the type of turntable.
When selecting a small microwave it is crucial to think about the machine's interior capacity. The typical countertop microwave is able to hold of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food at the same time, but it may take longer to heat. You should also examine the dimensions on the outside to ensure that it will fit in the space you want it to.
There are three main types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for everyday use for reheating leftovers and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves are designed to roast and bake, and usually come with an element of heating and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave blends the functions of a traditional and convection microwave into a single unit.
You shouldn't just focus on the power, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum power of microwaves is 800, while the maximum wattage is 1,200. Beware of purchasing a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts as it will not properly cook your food.
Installing a built-in micro within your cabinetry is an excellent method to save space. This will free up counter space and will make your kitchen appear more elegant. Trim kits are available which make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These are more expensive than countertop microwaves and over-the-range models however they are more user-friendly and can give your home an elegant look.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a convenient method of heating drinks and food. It helps to save space on countertops and frees up space for meal preparation. But, it's essential to make sure that you choose the right features for your requirements. A lot of models come with racks, a turntable, and other equipment that make cooking simpler and more efficient. Certain models come with a crisper tray that simulates traditional oven baking, and provides a crispy texture.
Microwaves are available in different sizes and finishes to suit the style of your kitchen. Some models feature doors that are recessed and blend into the cabinetry to give the appearance of a custom. It's important to think about the frequency and duration you'll make use of your microwave when choosing the most suitable place to put it. Also, you'll want to make sure that there is enough space for ventilation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
One popular option for storing microwaves is above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it can be hazardous for those with shorter heights or children, and requires you to take down and dispose of the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in a cabinet that is not used. This is an excellent solution for those with little counter space. It also gives an elegant and subtle appearance. It's also a great option for people who don't want to buy a microwave drawer but still need a convenient place to cook food and beverages.
Alternatively, you can install shelves that pull out to fit microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit into any space and deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some models even have an edge that is curved to help keep spills from happening and prevents tipping.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a matching wall oven in a mid-height cabinet. This installation is classic and looks fantastic in Transitional kitchens. Most manufacturers offer trim kit to align the microwave with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be installed on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
It is essential to select an aesthetic that incorporates the integrated microwave into your kitchen design. The countertop occupies a sizable footprint that can be a hindrance to the design of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to hide this versatile small appliance, without losing countertop space or storage space.
Installing microwave oven built in or cabinet garage, to hide the microwave when not being used is an option. This option is particularly useful in smaller kitchens where wall space is constrained. This kind of cabinet can be made to match your kitchen's trim and door design, providing a sleek custom look.
You can also hide your microwave by incorporating it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This type of design is ideal for a small kitchen, and can be paired with other cabinets for pantry storage to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves come with built-in racks or turntables that let you to cook multiple dishes at once. These features can make it more efficient as well as useful. However, it's important to use only microwave-safe cooking utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid metal containers or cookware with metallic accents, as they can spark and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in a cabinet or drawer might have venting systems that work with these enclosed spaces. However, it's critical that you consult with your contractor to ensure that proper venting is in place. A microwave shouldn't be installed near windows, as it can block them and prevent ventilation.
There are a variety of ways to incorporate microwaves into your kitchen layout such as putting it under the counter or hiding it away on an island. A microwave with a drawer is a fantastic option for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it is easily accessible by users of all heights.
Another option is to put the microwave above a matching built-in wall oven. This setup is ideal for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers might opt to employ a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits come in flat and louvered styles and can be combined with your oven.
Cost
A microwave that is small and built-in is a great option to modernize your kitchen. It's stylish and function. Pick from a range of models and finishes to match your decor and look for features like auto defrost cooking settings, cook settings, and timer options that will make meal preparation simpler. Certain microwaves feature designs that resist fingerprints which means they look clean.
While countertop microwaves are easy to use, they also take up valuable counter space which could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're worried about this, consider a recessed model that can be fitted inside the cabinetry for an elegant, customized look. A small built-in microwave oven that is installed on the kitchen island could give you more space while giving an elegant, seamless appearance. However, it's important to keep in mind that a recessed microwave needs adequate air clearance around the sides and the rear to perform effectively.
When deciding where to put your microwave, take into consideration how often you'll use it and what type of food you usually cook. If you're cooking mostly frozen dinners and pizza choose the highest watt microwave that will heat food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that need a more delicate heat, choose an appliance with lower watts to avoid overcooking.
If you're unable to fit your microwave into cabinets or prefer a more compact model, you can put it on a small, movable stand. These stands have a base that can support the microwave and hold it in place, and are often designed to repel fingerprints for a clean appearance. They're an inexpensive and convenient alternative that can be used as an interim microwave solution until you locate a permanent home for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to install a small microwave oven to the corner of your kitchen, where it can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. This is a great option to make space, however it's not recommended in homes with children or elderly residents that need easy access to their kitchen. A corner microwave should not be placed on top of a window since it can block ventilation and can shatter the glass in the situation of an emergency.