How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Save counter space and reclaim work surface area by relocating your microwave to a recessed space in the cabinetry or wall. Built-in microwaves are a great option for kitchens of any size. They seamlessly blend into the cabinetry or wall.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven comes with 10 power settings and presets to cook popular foods such as pizza, popcorn and frozen veggies. It also has a sensor that calculates the cooking time based upon food weight and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance to cook or warming meals. These appliances are usually high-powered and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is important to choose the right microwave for your requirements. Take into consideration features like size, power, design and control options. Some models come with large icons to aid you in choosing the best setting, while others have smooth controls that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. The number of racks and the type of turntable are also important features to consider.
When choosing a small micro it is essential to take into account the machine's internal capacity. The typical countertop microwave measures 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger 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 primary types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food with electromagnetic radiation. They are perfect for everyday use for cooking leftovers and defrosting foods. Convection microwaves are designed to roast and bake, and usually come with a fan and heating elements that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave blends the functions of a conventional and convection microwave into one unit.
You shouldn't just focus on the power, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum power level for microwave ovens is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. Avoid buying a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts because it won't properly cook your food.
If you're looking for a way to reduce the size of your kitchen, you should consider installing a built-in microwave inside your cabinetry. This option will save you counter space and make your kitchen look more refined. You can even get trim kits to make your microwave look like it's part cabinets. These are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range but they're much easier to use and give your kitchen a luxurious appearance.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a handy way to heat drinks and food. It helps to save space on countertops and frees up space for meal preparation. It's important that you select one that comes with the features you require. A lot of models have racks and a turntable as well as other accessories to make cooking more convenient. Certain models come with a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking and adds a crispy texture.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will fit into any kitchen design. Some models feature recessed doors that blend into the cabinetry, giving the appearance of a custom. To choose the best location for your microwave, you need to think about how often you'll use it and who will be using it. Additionally, you'll need make sure that there is enough space to allow for ventilation according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Above the refrigerator is an ideal place to store microwaves. This position keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easy to reach. However, it is 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 put the microwave in a separate cabinet. This is a great option for those with limited counter space. It also provides an elegant and subtle appearance. It's also a great option for those who don't wish to invest in an appliance drawer, but need a convenient place to heat food and drinks.
You can also install a pull-out pantry shelf designed to accommodate microwaves. These shelves are thick enough to avoid tipping and come in a variety widths to suit your space. Some models even have an angled edge to prevent spills and tipping.
Another option is to stack the microwave above a matching wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This installation is classic and looks great in Transitional kitchens. The majority of manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave aligns with the oven's depth. These kits come in louvered and flat styles and can be put in flush or proud of the millwork.
Design
It's important to choose a design which integrates the integrated microwave into your kitchen layout. The large footprint of the countertop can detract from the design of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to conceal this small appliance, without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
Installing a cabinet, or appliance garage, to hide the microwave when not being used is an option. This is particularly useful in kitchens that are small and have limited wall space. This type of cabinet is customizable to fit the trim and door style in your kitchen, giving it a a sleek custom appearance.
You can also conceal your microwave by adding it to the cabinetry of your pantry. This offers a clean and uncluttered look and also keeps it easily accessible. This kind of arrangement works well in a small kitchen. It can be paired with another pantry cabinet to make the most of storage space.
Some microwaves come with built-in racks or turntables that allow you to cook several dishes at the same time. These features make the appliance more efficient and can save you time. It is essential to make use of microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid using containers made of metal or cookware with metallic accents. These can create sparks which can damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be installed in drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that work well with these enclosed spaces. However, it's critical to talk to your contractor to ensure that proper venting is planned. Additionally it is not recommended that a microwave be placed directly in front of a window, since this could cause obstruction to the window and hinder ventilation.
There are wall microwave to incorporate a microwave in your kitchen design by putting it on the counter or tucking it away on an island. A microwave that is built like a drawer is a great option for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it can be easily accessed by people of all heights.
Another option is stacking the microwave over a matching built-in wall oven. This type of installation is ideal for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers might opt to employ a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. These kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be matched to the oven you have.
Cost
A microwave that is small and built-in is a great way to update your kitchen. It is stylish and function. Pick from a range of styles and finishes that complement your home's decor, and look for features like defrost settings that are automatic as well as cook settings and timers that make meal preparation easier. Some microwaves also have designs that help them resist fingerprints, which means you can keep them looking clean.
While microwaves for countertop use are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space which can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If you're worried about this, you might want to consider an recessed model that could be fitted inside your cabinetry to create a sleek, unique appearance. Installing a small microwave oven inside a kitchen isle can also provide more workspace and a stylish integrated appearance. It's important to keep in mind that a recessed microwave needs adequate air clearance around the sides and rear to function properly.
When deciding where to place your microwave, consider how often you'll use it and what kind of food you typically cook. If you're preparing mostly pizza and frozen meals, opt for the highest watt microwave that will heat food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or foods that need a more delicate heat, choose a lower-wattage unit to keep from overcooking.
Install a mobile, small stand if you are unable to fit the microwave in cabinets or prefer a smaller model. These stands come with an underlying structure that can support the microwave and hold it up straight, and they're often designed to repel fingerprints to keep it clean. These stands are a handy and inexpensive choice that can be used to temporarily store your microwave until you find the right place for it in the 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. While this is a practical way to save space but it's not recommended for homes with small children or elderly residents who require easy access to the kitchen. Moreover, a corner microwave should not be placed in front of a window since it may block ventilation and can shatter the glass in the event of an emergency.