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 provide you with more work surface. Built-in models are integrable to give a clean look in kitchens of all sizes.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for the most popular foods such as pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also comes with a smart-sensor that calculates the cooking time based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave with a built-in oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance for cooking or heating meals. The majority of these appliances are powerful and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is important to choose the correct microwave to meet your needs. Consider features such as size power, design, and control options. Certain models have large icons on the display to help you select the right options, while others have a smooth control panel that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. The number of racks, and the type of turntable are essential aspects to consider.
When choosing a small micro, it is important to consider the machine's interior capacity. 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 may take longer to heat. It is important to take a look at the dimensions of the exterior of a small microwave to make sure it can be placed in the space you want it to be.
There are three main types of microwave ovens: conventional, convection and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food using electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for everyday use for reheating leftovers and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves can be used to bake or roast food. They usually come with an element for heating and a fan which circulates hot air around it. In addition, an oven microwave combines the functions of a traditional and convection microwave in one unit.
While wattage is a crucial factor, you should be aware of the power levels of the minimum and maximum levels of your microwave oven. The minimum wattage required for microwave ovens is 800 watts, and the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're purchasing new microwaves, avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts because it won't cook your food correctly.
If you're looking for a way to save space in your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave inside your cabinetry. This option will save counter space and make your home look more refined. There are trim kits that will make your microwave appear to be part of the cabinet. These options are more costly than countertop and over the range microwaves however they are more user-friendly and can give your home a a high-end appearance.
Convenience
A small microwave oven built in to a countertop is a convenient and easy method to heat food and beverages. It helps to free up space on the counter and provides more space to cook meals. But, it's essential to ensure that you select one that has the best features to meet your needs. A lot of models have a turntable and racks, and other kitchen accessories to make cooking easier. Some models have a crisper tray that simulates traditional oven baking and gives crisp texture.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will suit any kitchen design. Some models feature doors that are recessed, which blend into the cabinetry, giving the appearance of a custom. It is crucial to consider the frequency and purpose you will use your microwave before deciding on the ideal location. You'll also need to ensure that the space is large enough to allow for ventilation, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of your microwave.
A common place to store microwaves is above the refrigerator. This position keeps the appliance off your countertop and makes it easier to reach. It could be dangerous for shorter people or children and you'll have to take it off and store the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave inside an additional cabinet. This is a great solution for those with a limited space on their countertops and provides a sleek, minimalist look. This is a great option for those who don't have the space to install a microwave, but still want a reliable method to heat up drinks and food.
You can also install a pullout pantry shelf that is designed to accommodate the microwave. These shelves are large enough to fit in any space, and deep enough to prevent them from tipping. Some shelves feature a curved corner to prevent spills and tumbling.
Another option is to stack the microwave above the wall oven that is a match in a mid-height cabinet. This is a traditional setup and is a great choice 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 and flat designs and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave is a useful kitchen appliance, but it's essential to choose a design that integrates it into the rest of your kitchen design. A countertop-based microwave occupies a sizable footprint that detracts from the aesthetic of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to conceal this small appliance, without losing countertop space or storage space.
Installing cabinets, or an appliance garage, to hide the microwave when not in use is one option. This solution is particularly effective for kitchens with smaller walls where wall space is a problem. This type of cabinet can be customized to match the trim of your kitchen and door style, giving you an elegant and unique appearance.
You can also hide your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat minimalist look and keeps it easily accessible. This type of design is perfect for a smaller kitchen and may be paired with other pantry cabinets to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves come with racks or turntables built-in that allow you cook multiple dishes at once. These features make the appliance more efficient and help you save time. However, it's important to only use microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid metal containers or cookware with metallic accents, as these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves intended to be put in drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. Consult your contractor to ensure the venting is specified correctly. A microwave should not be installed near windows, as it can block them and prevent venting.
There are a variety of ways to incorporate a microwave in your kitchen design, including mounting it under the counter or hiding it away in an island. The drawer-style microwave can be a great option for kitchens that have small counter space. It can be easily accessed to anyone of any height.
Another option is to place the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This setup is perfect for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers may employ a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits are available in louvered and flat designs, and can be matched to your oven.
Cost
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a great way to modernize your kitchen. It adds style and functionality. Look for designs and finishes that match your home's decor. Also look for features such as automatic defrost or cooking settings. Timer options are also beneficial. Certain microwaves feature designs that resist fingerprints which means they look clean.
While microwaves for countertop use are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space which can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If you're concerned about this, consider a recessed model that can be installed within your cabinetry for a sleek, unique appearance. Installing a small, built-in microwave oven inside a kitchen island could also give more workspace and a stylish integrated appearance. It is crucial to remember that a microwave with a recess needs enough air around the sides and the rear to perform properly.
Consider how often you will use your microwave and the kind of food items you cook most frequently before deciding where to place it. If you're preparing mostly frozen dinners and pizza, opt for a higher wattage microwave that can heat food quickly and evenly. If you are cooking vegetables or foods that need a more delicate heat, opt for an appliance with lower watts to avoid overcooking.
If you're unable to fit your microwave into a cabinet or prefer a more compact model, you can put it on a small, portable stand. These stands come with an underlying structure that can support the microwave and hold it upright, and they're often designed to repel fingerprints to keep it clean. They're an inexpensive and convenient option that can serve as a temporary microwave solution until you find a permanent place for it in your kitchen.
A small microwave can be added to the corner of your house, where it will double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a convenient way to reduce space, it's not recommended for homes with small children or elderly people who require access to the kitchen easily. Additionally, a corner microwave shouldn't be placed in front of a window since it can block airflow and break the glass in the situation of an emergency.