How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave

A microwave that sits in a cabinet or beneath your counter frees the countertop and creates a seamless look. Installing them at a comfortable level and near other appliances such as an oven that is wall-mounted is easy.

Choose from a variety door designs, including right-to-left-left swing-out doors or drop-down models which open the same way as a drawer in a cabinet. Think about other options, too.

Capacity

Microwaves are available in different sizes and capacities that will be a perfect fit for any kitchen. Look for compact, countertop, low-profile and built in microwaves with grill-in microwaves to find a model that is suitable for your space. These models speed up meals by incorporating features like sensor cooking and slim trimkits that save space on the counter. Some models also have an adjustable turntable that makes loading and unloading dishes easier.

Take into consideration the size of your family and whether you will be using the microwave to heat larger serving dishes like platters or casseroles. You'll require a larger capacity microwave to hold these larger items. For example an 2.2-cubic foot model from Frigidaire has the room to accommodate large platters and plates for dinner.

Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting the right microwave is its power level. Select models with a higher wattage to cook food faster and evenly. Some microwaves come with different power settings, which means you can adjust the power output according to what you're cooking.

Microwave dimensions vary by type, and usually include the exterior width, height, and depth, along with interior capacity. Exterior sizes can be useful in your search, as they can provide an idea of what you can expect. The capacity of the interior of each model is listed separately and can assist in determining which model is best built in combination microwave for your home.

The inside space of small built in combi microwave oven and grill-in microwaves varies from model to model however, most will have an overall size of 24 inches with the door closed. The widths can be a bit smaller to fit standard cabinet cutout sizes and align with over-the-range models. The height and depth differ between models, but all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches above the stove in order to allow ventilation.

Take measurements of the space you wish to install the microwave and clear any obstructions. Leave at least one inch between the microwave and the wall to allow for ventilation and three inches between the countertop's edge and the door to prevent tipping.

Design

When choosing the best small built-in microwave it is important to consider the overall design of the kitchen and how the appliance will fit in the space. There are many ways to integrate the appliance into the kitchen, including mounting it on a wall, placing it underneath the counter in a drawer-style arrangement, or even recessed into the cabinetry. The appliance will blend in better with other kitchen appliances, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

The design of the door is equally important. Many microwave models offer a right-to-left swinging door drop-down doors, drop-down doors or a pull-out drawer. These options allow users of any height to easily access the appliance and help to save space on the countertop. In addition to these convenience features, some microwaves have premium features that can provide an elegant look and feel to the kitchen.

It is also essential to be aware of the power that will be required to cook certain meals. The back of the majority of microwaves will show the power rating. A model with more watts allows for quicker cooking and reheating. There are models with lower wattage ratings, which are more efficient in energy use. However, they'll take longer to cook or heat food items.

Installing a small, built-in microwave in an existing cabinet is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it. These types of microwaves are available in various prices, but are generally close to the cabinet and have an elegant, integrated appearance. To ensure that the installation is done correctly it is important to read the owner's manual and installation instructions for the microwave model you're looking at.

The microwave can be mounted on the wall is an alternative option. This can be done in a pantry or nook. This will give the room an open, modern look that can help brighten up the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer can work with a homeowner to determine the most suitable placement. But, it is important to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on both side and the back for it to perform correctly.

Power

Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can perform many tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave is measured in watts. This can impact the speed at which food is cooked. In general, higher wattage models will heat food quicker and more effectively than models with lower watts.

In contrast to freestanding microwaves, built-in models are installed into your kitchen's cabinets, and this provides them with a sleek look that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your appliances and space. You can also find built microwave oven combo-in microwaves that require less room and still have enough space to accommodate large glasses and dishes.

You can also pick from a variety of options for control that make cooking and heating food more convenient and easy. You can choose models with sensor-cooking features to make mealtimes easier. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design allow you to easily fit them into tight spaces.

Installation

Microwaves that are integrated into cabinets and island structures provide a sleek appearance and free up valuable counter space. These models typically require professional installation, but they do allow you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They are smaller than freestanding models, making it easier to fit into tight spaces and corners.

Before installing your new microwave, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer for the model you pick. This will provide details on the amount of space needed for ventilation as well as the materials and tools required to make the project a success. Depending on the type of home, your electrical system might need to be altered for the installation. If you are planning to install the system yourself, switch off the electricity to your home prior to starting work.

First, prepare the cabinet space by removing any trim that might interfere with placing your microwave properly. Make sure the countertop is free of obstructions and that no other appliances are in the area. Utilize a stud-finder tool to locate the wall studs beneath the cabinet you want to mount the microwave. You can also use a hammer to tap the wall to find studs. If you can hear a distinct sound, you have found an appropriate stud. Once you've found the locations of wall studs, mark them with a pencil and a level. If your microwave included a cardboard template, tape it over the upper cabinet to act as a guide to drill holes for the mounting plate.

Most microwaves that are designed to be mounted in cabinets or recessed areas come with venting systems that work with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do to ensure proper ventilation, for instance raising the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through a wall or cabinet, or even an island.

When installing a microwave with a built-in ensure that an assistant holds the appliance in place while you secure it to the wall. Screws that can support the weight of your microwave are recommended, like lag screws (also known as toggle bolts). Secure the mounting plate to the wall with these and snake the power cord through a hole drilled for this purpose.