How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reduce counter space and work surface area by relocating your microwave to a recessed cavity in the wall or cabinetry. Built-in models integrate seamlessly for sleek kitchens of all sizes.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for popular foods like popcorn, pizza and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that determines the cooking time based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave oven with a small built-in microwave is a fantastic kitchen appliance to cook and reheating food items. The majority of these appliances are powerful and can cook foods quickly and evenly. It is essential to select the best microwave to meet your needs. The features you should consider include size and design, power level and control options. Certain models have large icons on the screen to aid you in choosing the best settings, while other models have a smooth control panel that are easy to read under different lighting conditions. Other aspects to consider include the number of racks available and the type of turntable.
When you are choosing a small microwave, it's important to take a look at the interior capacity of the appliance. The typical countertop microwave has a capacity of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food in one go, but may take longer to heat. You should also examine the dimensions on the outside to ensure that it will fit in the desired space.
There are three types of microwaves: convection conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food using electromagnetic radiation. They are perfect for standard uses for reheating leftovers and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast food, and they usually have an element of heating and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. Additionally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a traditional and convection microwave in one unit.
While wattage is an important factor, you should pay attention to the maximum and minimum power levels of your microwave oven. The minimum wattage 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, think about installing a built-in microwave into your cabinetry. This can reduce counter space and make your home appear more elegant. Trim kits are available that make your microwave appear to be part of the cabinet. These options are more expensive than countertop microwaves and over-the-range models but they're much easier to use and give your kitchen a luxurious look.
Convenience
A small microwave oven installed on a countertop is an easy and convenient method to heat drinks and food. It saves space on the counter and makes space for meal preparation. It is essential to choose one that has the features you require. A lot of models have racks and a turntable, along with other equipment to help cook more easily. Some models also have a crisper pan that resembles traditional oven baking, bringing crispness to food.
Microwaves come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit your kitchen design. Some models feature doors that are recessed and blend into the cabinetry to give it a custom appearance. It is important to consider the frequency and duration you'll use your microwave when choosing the most suitable location. Additionally, you'll need make sure that there is enough space for ventilation according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
A common place to store a microwave is above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave from being a mess and makes it easier to reach. It can be dangerous to children or people who are shorter, and you'll need to remove and store the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave in an extra cabinet. This is an excellent solution for those with limited counter space. It also provides an unobtrusive and seamless appearance. This is a great solution for those who don't have enough space to install a microwave but nevertheless want a practical way to heat drinks and food.
You can also install a pullout pantry shelf designed to fit a microwave. These shelves are wide enough to fit in any space, and deep enough to stop them from tipping. Some shelves have a curving corner that prevents spills and tumbling.
Another option is to stack the microwave on top of an oven that is a match in a cabinet of mid-height. This installation is classic and looks great in Transitional kitchens. Many manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave is in line with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
It is essential to select an aesthetic that incorporates the built-in microwave into the kitchen layout. The huge footprint it leaves on the countertop can detract from appearance of your kitchen. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to conceal this small appliance, without having to sacrifice countertop space or storage.
One option is to install cabinets or an appliance garage to hide the microwave when not in use. This solution is particularly effective in smaller kitchens where wall space is constrained. This kind of cabinet can be customizable to be in line with the door trim and trim in your kitchen, giving it an elegant and unique look.
You can also conceal your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered look, while also keeping the microwave within reach. This design works well in a small kitchen. It can be used with a different pantry cabinet to increase storage.
Certain microwaves have built-in turntables or racks that allow you to cook several dishes at the same time. 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, since these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in a drawer or cabinet may have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. However, it is essential to talk to your contractor to ensure the proper venting is planned. In addition the microwave should not be placed directly in the direction of a window because this could cause obstruction to the window and hinder venting.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by mounting it on a counter or hiding it in an island. The microwave that is built into drawers is an ideal option for kitchens with a limited counter space. It is easily accessible to anyone of any height.
Another option is to place the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This type of installation works well in 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 designs and can be matched to the oven you have.
Cost
A small built-in microwave oven is a great option to modernize your kitchen. It is stylish and utility. Pick from a range of styles and finishes that complement your home's decor, and look for features such as defrost settings that are automatic as well as cook settings and timer options that make meal preparation easier. Certain microwaves come with designs that resist fingerprints so they can look pristine.
Countertop microwaves are convenient, but they can occupy valuable counterspace and limit the design and functionality of your kitchen. If this is a concern, you may think about a recessed microwave that can be installed inside your cabinetry. This will give it a sleek and unique appearance. Installing a small microwave oven in your kitchen island can provide more space and a sleek integrated appearance. It's important to keep in mind that a microwave with a recess needs adequate air clearance around the sides and rear to work correctly.
When deciding where to put your microwave, take into consideration the frequency you use it and what kind of food you typically cook. If you're preparing mostly pizza and frozen meals choose a higher wattage microwave that can heat food quickly and evenly. If built in microwave for wall unit cooking vegetables or other food items that require more delicate heating, look into using a smaller wattage model that will avoid burning and overcooking.
Install a small, mobile stand if it's not possible to fit the microwave in a cabinet or you prefer a smaller model. These stands are designed with a base that can support the microwave, keep it in a straight position and typically feature a non-smudge surface. They're a low-cost and practical option that can be used as an interim microwave solution until you can locate a permanent home for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to put a small microwave oven to the corner of your kitchen, and it could double as a mini-hood for your stove. This is a great option to make space, however it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents that need easy access to their kitchen. A corner microwave should not be placed in front of a window since it can block airflow and break the glass in the case of an emergency.