How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Relocating your microwave into a cavity in the cabinetry or wall will save you counter space and give you more work surface. Built-in microwaves are a fantastic option for kitchens of all sizes. They blend seamlessly into the cabinetry or wall.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven comes with 10 power settings and presets for the most popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a smart sensor that determines the cooking time based on food weight and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a wonderful kitchen appliance to cook or heating meals. Most microwaves are powerful and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is crucial to select the correct microwave for your needs. Consider features such as size power, design, and control options. Certain models have large icons on the display to aid you in choosing the best settings, while others have sleek control panels that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks and the type of turntable.
When choosing a small micro it is crucial to take into account the machine's internal capacity. The average countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food at one time, but it may take longer to heat. It is also important to look at the exterior dimensions of a microwave oven that is small to ensure that it can be placed in your desired location.
There are three main types of microwave ovens: conventional, convection, and oven. Conventional microwaves make use of electromagnetic radiation to heat the food, and they are suitable for normal uses such as reheating leftovers and defrosting frozen foods. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast, and usually come with heating elements and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. A microwave oven combines the functions of a convection and conventional microwave into one unit.
It is not enough to be aware of the 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. Beware of buying a microwave that has less than 1,000 Watts since it won't be able to cook your food.
Installing a built-in micro within your cabinetry is a great option to reduce space. This can reduce counter space and make your home appear more refined. Trim kits are available which make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves however they are easier to access and can give your kitchen a high-end look.
Convenience
A small microwave oven is a great method of heating food and drinks. It frees up space on the counter and provides more room to prepare meals. It is important to select one that has the features you need. Many models include racks and a turntable, along with other equipment to help cook more easily. Some models also have an oven that is crisper, which mimics traditional oven baking, adding a crispy texture to food.
Microwaves come in a range of sizes and finishes that will fit into any kitchen design. Some models have an concealed door that blends in with the cabinetry for a custom look. It is crucial to consider the frequency and duration you'll use your microwave before deciding on the best location. Also, you'll need to make sure that there is enough space to allow for ventilation according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
A popular method of storing a microwave is above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it could be hazardous for those with shorter heights or children and requires you to take down and clean the microwave each time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in a spare cabinet. This is a great solution for people with limited countertop space and offers a seamless, unobtrusive look. It's also a good choice for people who don't want to invest in a microwave drawer but still need a convenient place to cook food and beverages.
Alternatively, you can install a pull-out pantry shelf designed to fit a microwave. They are wide enough to prevent tipping and are available in a variety of sizes to fit the space you have. Some options even have a curved edge that helps 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 is a classic installation and is a great choice for Transitional style kitchens. The majority of manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat designs and can be installed on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but you need to find a design that blends into the rest of your layout. The huge footprint it leaves on the countertop can detract from appearance of your kitchen. There are a variety of ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without cutting down on the counter space or storage.
Another option is to put in a cabinet or appliance garage to conceal the microwave when not in use. This solution is particularly effective for smaller kitchens where wall space is a problem. This kind of cabinet can be customizable to match the door trim and trim in your kitchen, giving it an elegant and unique look.
Another way to hide a microwave is to incorporate it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered look, while also keeping it within easy reach. This type of placement is perfect for a smaller kitchen and may be paired with other cabinets in the pantry to maximize storage space.
Certain microwaves have turntables or racks built in which allow you to cook multiple dishes at once. These features make the appliance more useful and save time. It is crucial to use microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid cooking and cookware made of metal or with metallic accents as these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in a cabinet or drawer may have venting systems that can be used with these enclosed spaces. Ask your contractor to make sure the venting system is correctly specified. Additionally the microwave should not be placed directly in the window's direction, as this can cause obstruction to the window and hinder ventilation.
You can also incorporate a microwave in your kitchen design by putting it under a counter or hidden on an island. The microwave that is built into drawers is ideal for kitchens with a little counter space. It can be easily accessed to anyone of any height.
Another option is to place the microwave over a matching built in wall oven. This kind of setup is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can employ a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. They are available in louvered and flat designs and can be matched to the oven you have.
Cost
A microwave that is small and built-in is a great option to update your kitchen. It's stylish and function. Pick from a range of styles and finishes that fit in with your home's decor and look for features like auto defrost cooking settings, cook settings, and timer options that will make meal preparation simpler. Some microwaves also have designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, allowing you to keep them looking pristine.
While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space which can limit your kitchen's functionality and design options. If this is a problem, you may be interested in a recessed microwave that can be installed inside your cabinetry. This will give it a sleek, custom look. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven in a kitchen island could also give more space and a sleek integrated appearance. It is crucial to remember that a microwave with a recess needs sufficient airflow around the sides and the rear to function properly.
Think about how often you make use of your microwave and what kind of food you cook most often before deciding where to place it. If you're preparing mostly frozen dinners and pizza, opt for a higher wattage microwave that will heat food quickly and evenly. If you are cooking food items or vegetables that need a more delicate heat, select an appliance with lower watts to prevent overcooking.
If you're unable to squeeze your microwave in an existing cabinet or prefer a more compact model, you can put it on a small, movable stand. These stands come with an underlying structure that can support the microwave and keep it up straight, and they're usually designed to ward off fingerprints to keep it clean. These stands are a handy and inexpensive choice that can be used to temporarily keep your microwave in storage until you find the right place for it in the kitchen.
Another alternative is to install an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, where it can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. This is a great method to make space, however it's not recommended in homes with children or elderly residents who require access to their kitchens. A corner microwave should not be placed directly in the window's direction, since it could block the airflow and shatter glass in an emergency.