How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Moving your microwave into an area in the cabinetry or on the wall will save counter space and provide you with more work space. Built-in microwaves are a fantastic option for kitchens of any size. They blend seamlessly into the wall or cabinetry.
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 determines the cooking duration in relation to food weight and density.
Power
A microwave with a built-in oven is a great kitchen appliance to cook or heating meals. These appliances are usually high-powered and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is essential to select the best microwave for your requirements. Think about integrated oven and microwave as size power, design, and control options. Certain models have large icons on the screen to aid you in choosing the best settings, while others have smooth control panels that are easy to read under different lighting conditions. Other things to consider are the number of racks and the type of turntable.
When choosing a small microwave it is essential to look at the interior capacity of the machine. The typical countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger capacity microwave will cook more food in one go, but may take longer to heat. It is important to take a look at the dimensions of the exterior of a small microwave to ensure that it can be placed in your desired location.
There are three types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for normal uses for reheating leftovers and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast food, and they usually have a fan and heating elements that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a conventional and convection microwave into 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 a microwave is 800, and the maximum power is 1,200. If you're purchasing a new microwave, you should avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts as it won't cook your food properly.
If you're looking for a way to make space in your kitchen, consider installing a built-in microwave into your cabinetry. This will help you save counter space and make your home appear more elegant. You can get trim kits that make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These options are more costly than countertop microwaves and over the range models however, they are easier to use and can give your home a a high-end appearance.
Convenience
A small built in microwave oven is a convenient way to heat drinks and food. It helps to free up space on the counter and allows for more space to cook meals. It is essential to choose one that has the features you require. Many models come with racks and a turntable along with other equipment to help cook more easily. Some models come with an oven tray that is crisper and more like traditional oven baking, and provides crisp texture.
Microwaves come in a variety of sizes and finishes to match the design of your kitchen. Some models even feature an recessive door that blends into cabinets to create a customized look. It's important to think about the frequency and duration you'll use your microwave before deciding on the best place to put it. Also, you'll need to make sure that there is enough space for air circulation according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Above the refrigerator, there is the most popular spot to store microwaves. This keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easy to reach. However, it could 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 set up the microwave in a separate cabinet. This is a great solution for people with limited countertop space. It also gives a sleek, minimalist appearance. This is a great choice for those who don't have enough space to install a microwave, but nevertheless want a practical way to heat up drinks and food.
Alternatively, you can install an open-top pantry shelf designed to accommodate a microwave. They are wide enough to avoid tipping and come in a variety of widths to fit your space. Some shelves have a curved corner to prevent spills and falling.
Another option is stacking the microwave over a matching wall-oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a classic installation and is ideal for Transitional style 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 or flat styles and can be installed proud of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave is a useful kitchen appliance, but you need to find a design that integrates it into the rest of your kitchen layout. A countertop-based microwave is a huge footprint that can be a hindrance to the design of your kitchen. There are a myriad of ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without cutting down on the counter space or storage.
Installing an appliance or cabinet garage, to hide the microwave when it is not in use is one option. This is especially effective in smaller kitchens where wall space is limited. This type of cabinet can be made to match the trim of your kitchen and door design, providing an elegant and unique look.
You can also conceal your microwave by adding it to the cabinetry of your pantry. This offers a clean and uncluttered look and keeps it easily accessible. This kind of arrangement is perfect for a small kitchen. It can be paired with a pantry cabinet to maximize storage.
Certain microwaves have racks or turntables that are built in which allow you to cook multiple dishes at once. These features make the appliance more efficient and can save you time. It's important that you only use microwave-safe cookware and utensils 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 drawers or cabinets can feature venting systems that work with these enclosed spaces. Ask your contractor to make sure the venting system is correctly specified. A microwave should not be installed directly in front of windows as it can block them and hinder venting.
You can incorporate a microwave into your kitchen layout by placing it under the counter or tucking it away on an island. A microwave with a drawer is a fantastic option for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it is accessible by people of all heights.
Another option is to put the microwave above a matching built-in wall oven. This type of installation is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. To complete the installation kitchen Designers can make use of trim kits to cover any gaps around the unit. These kits are available in louvered and flat designs, and can be matched with your oven.
Cost
A small built in microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen appliance, adding design and function to your kitchen's new design. Choose models and finishes that are in harmony with your home's décor. Also, look for features like auto defrost and cook settings. The timer option is also beneficial. Some microwaves have designs that help them resist fingerprints, so you can keep them clean.
Countertop microwaves are convenient however they can occupy valuable counter space and reduce the design and flexibility of your kitchen. If you're worried about this, you might want to consider a recessed model that can be incorporated into your cabinetry for a sleek, custom appearance. A small built in microwave oven in the kitchen island could help to free up space while providing a stylish, integrated appearance. It is important to remember that a microwave with a recess needs enough airflow around its sides and rear to perform properly.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and the kind of food you cook the most often when deciding where to put it. If you prepare mostly pizzas and frozen meals select a model with an increased wattage to cook your food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or other food items that require more delicate heating, look into an appliance with a lower wattage to avoid burning and overcooking.
Install a mobile, small stand if you are unable to fit the microwave into a cabinet, or if you prefer a smaller model. They are designed with a base to support the microwave, hold it upright and often have a fingerprint-resistant surface. These stands are a handy and inexpensive option that can be used to temporarily store your microwave until you can find a permanent place for it in the kitchen.
A small microwave can be added to the corner of your house and it can double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a practical way to save 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 ventilation and can shatter the glass in the event of an emergency.