How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reduce counter space and the space you have for work by moving your microwave into a recessed space in the wall or cabinetry. Built-in microwaves are a great option for kitchens of any size. They seamlessly blend into the wall or cabinetry.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that determines the cooking duration based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave with a built-in oven is a wonderful kitchen appliance to cook or reheating meals. These appliances are usually high-powered, and can heat food quickly and evenly. It is important to choose the best microwave for your needs. Think about features such as size power, design, and control options. Some models feature large icons that can help you select the correct settings, while others feature smooth controls that are easy to see in different lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable are essential aspects to consider.
When choosing a small microwave it is important to look at the interior capacity of the appliance. The typical countertop microwave is able to hold of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger capacity microwave will cook more food in one go, but it will take longer to heat. You should also examine the dimensions of the exterior to ensure that it fits in the space you want it to.
There are three kinds of microwaves: convection conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves make use of electromagnetic radiation to warm food, and they are ideal for everyday use like reheating leftovers or freezing frozen food items. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast, and they usually have a fan and heating elements that circulate hot air around the food. A microwave oven combines the functions of convection and traditional 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 power level for a microwave oven is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're looking to purchase a new microwave, you should avoid buying a model that has less than 1,000 watts since it will not cook your food correctly.
If you're looking for a way to make space in your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave in your cabinetry. This option will save counter space and make your home appear more sophisticated. There are trim kits that will 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 use and can give your house a an elegant look.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a handy method to heat food and drinks. It helps to save space on countertops and frees up space for meal preparation. However, it's important to make sure that you choose one that has the best features for your needs. Many models include racks and a turntable, as well as other accessories to help cook more easily. Some models have an oven tray that is crisper and more like traditional oven baking, and provides a crispy texture.
Microwaves come in different sizes and styles to fit your kitchen design. Some models feature doors that are recessed and blend into the cabinetry, giving it a custom appearance. It is important to consider how often and by whom you'll use your microwave before deciding on the ideal location. Additionally, you'll need make sure that there is enough space for ventilation in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.
A common place to store a microwave is above the refrigerator. This keeps the appliance off your countertop and makes it easy to reach. However, it can be hazardous for those with shorter heights or children and requires you to remove and put away the microwave each 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 with a limited countertop space and offers a sleek, minimalist look. It's also a great option for those who don't want to buy an appliance drawer, but need a convenient place to warm food and drinks.
Alternatively, you can install shelves that pull out to fit microwaves. These shelves are deep enough to prevent tipping and are available in a variety of sizes to fit the space you have. Some shelves feature a curved corner to prevent spills and falling.
Another option is stacking the microwave on top of a matching wall-oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a classic design and looks great in Transitional kitchens. The majority of manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave aligns with the oven's depth. They are available in louvered and flat styles, and can be installed flush or proud of the millwork.
Design
It is crucial to select an aesthetic that incorporates the integrated microwave into your kitchen design. A countertop-based microwave is a huge footprint that can be a hindrance to the design of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to conceal this small appliance, without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
One option is to install an appliance garage or cabinet to conceal the microwave when it's not being used. This solution is especially useful in kitchens that are small and have limited wall space. This kind of cabinet can be customizable to fit the door trim and trim in your kitchen, giving it a a sleek custom appearance.
Another method to hide a microwave is to incorporate it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This gives a neat and uncluttered appearance and keeps the microwave within reach. This kind of arrangement is ideal for a small kitchen. It can be combined with a pantry cabinet to maximize storage.
Certain microwaves have built-in racks or turntables that allow you to cook a variety of dishes at once. These features make it more efficient and useful. It is essential to use microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid using metallic containers or cookware with metallic accents. These can cause sparks that could cause damage to the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be placed in drawers or cabinets can feature venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. Talk to your contractor to make sure the venting is specified correctly. Also it is not recommended that a microwave be placed directly in the window's direction, as this can block the window and prevent venting.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by mounting it under the counter or hidden on an island. The drawer-style microwave is ideal for kitchens with a limited counter space. It can be easily accessed to anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a built in wall oven. This method is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can employ a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. The kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be matched to match your oven.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be an attractive kitchen appliance, adding aesthetics and functionality to your new kitchen design. Look for designs and finishes that match your home's décor. Also look for integrated microwave oven as auto defrost and cooking settings. The timer option is also useful. Certain microwaves come with designs that resist fingerprints so they can look pristine.
While countertop microwaves are easy to use, they also take up valuable counter space that can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If this is a concern, you may be interested in a microwave that is recessed and can be installed inside your cabinetry. This will give it a sleek, custom appearance. Installing a small built-in microwave oven inside a kitchen island could also give more workspace and a stylish integrated appearance. However, it's important to note that a recessed microwave requires adequate air clearance around its sides and the rear to function correctly.
Consider how often you will make use of your microwave and what type of food you cook most frequently when deciding where to put it. If you cook mostly pizzas and frozen meals, choose a microwave with an increased wattage to cook food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require delicate heating, look into an appliance with a lower wattage that can prevent burning and overcooking.
If you're not able to fit your microwave in a cabinet 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 up straight, and they're often designed to repel fingerprints to ensure a neat appearance. They are a practical and affordable option 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, which can double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a practical way to reduce space, it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who need easy access to the kitchen. Additionally, a corner microwave shouldn't be placed directly on top of a window since it may block airflow and break the glass in the case of an emergency.