How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
The idea of putting your microwave in a cabinet or wall will save you counter space and provide you with more work surface. Built-in microwaves are an excellent option for kitchens of all sizes. They blend seamlessly into the cabinetry or wall.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen veggies. It also has a smart sensor that determines the cooking time based on food weight and density.
Power
A small microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance to cook or reheating meals. They are typically powerful and can heat food quickly and evenly. It is crucial to select the right microwave for your needs. A few features to think about are size and design, power level, and options for controlling. Certain models have large icons that assist you in selecting the right settings, while others feature smooth controls that are easy to see under different lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks available and the kind of turntable.
When selecting a microwave that is small it is essential to take a look at the interior capacity of the appliance. The typical countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food at the same time, however it could take longer to heat. You should also check the dimensions on the outside to make sure it fits in the space you want it to.
There are three main types of microwave ovens: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves use electromagnetic radiation to cook food items, and are best for standard uses such as reheating leftovers, or defrosting frozen foods. Convection microwaves are a great option to bake or roast food items. They usually come with an element for heating and an air-flow fan which circulates hot air around. Finally an oven microwave blends the functions of a traditional and convection microwave in one unit.
You should not only focus on the wattage, but also the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. built in microwave oven combo for microwaves is 800, and the maximum wattage is 1,200. Avoid buying a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts, because it won't properly cook your food.
Installing a built-in micro within your cabinetry is an excellent way to save space. This can reduce counter space and make your home appear more elegant. You can even get trim kits to make your microwave look like it's part of your cabinets. built in microwave oven combo are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range, but they're easier to use and provide your kitchen with a premium look.
Convenience
A small microwave oven is a handy method to heat food and drinks. It can save space on countertops and frees up room for meal prep. But, it's essential to make sure that you select a model with the right features to meet your needs. Many models include racks and a turntable, as well as other accessories to make cooking more convenient. Some models have a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking, and provides crisp texture.
Microwaves come in various sizes and finishes to suit your kitchen design. Some models even feature a recessed door that blends into cabinets to create a customized appearance. To select the ideal place for your microwave, you need to think about the frequency of use and who will use it. Also, you'll want to ensure that there's enough space for ventilation according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Above the refrigerator is a popular place to store a microwave. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it could be hazardous for those with shorter heights or children and requires you to take down and put away the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to set up the microwave inside an additional cabinet. This is a great solution for those with limited counter space. It also offers an unobtrusive and seamless appearance. This is a great choice for those who don't have the space to install a microwave but still want a reliable method to heat up food and beverages.
You can also put in shelves that pull out to the pantry designed to fit microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit into any space, and deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some shelves even have an edge that is curved to help keep spills from happening and prevents tipping.
Another option is to place the microwave above the wall oven that is a match in a mid-height cabinet. This installation is classic and looks great in Transitional kitchens. Most manufacturers offer trim kit to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles, and can be installed on top or flush with the millwork.
Design
It is crucial to select an aesthetic that incorporates the built-in microwave into the kitchen design. The large footprint of the countertop can detract from the design of your kitchen. There are a variety of ways to hide this small appliance, without having to sacrifice counter space or storage.
Installing an appliance or cabinet garage, to conceal the microwave when it is not in use is one option. This solution is particularly effective for smaller kitchens where wall space is constrained. built in ovens and microwaves of cabinet can be made to match your kitchen's trim and door style, giving you an elegant, custom-designed appearance.
Another method to hide a microwave is to incorporate it into your pantry cabinetry. This gives a neat and uncluttered look and also keeps it within easy reach. This type of design is ideal for a small kitchen and may be paired with other cabinets in the pantry to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves have turntables or racks built in that allow you cook multiple dishes simultaneously. These features make the appliance more useful and save 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 these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves that are designed to be placed in a drawer or cabinet may have venting systems that can be used with these enclosed spaces. Consult your contractor to ensure the venting is specified correctly. A microwave shouldn't be installed near windows, since it could block them and prevent venting.
There are many other ways to incorporate microwaves into your kitchen design, including mounting it under the counter or hiding it away on an island. The microwave that is built into drawers is ideal for kitchens with a small counter space. It is easily accessible to anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a matching built in wall oven. This setup is perfect for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers may use a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. The kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be customized to the oven you have.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen upgrade, adding both aesthetics and functionality to your kitchen's design. Choose designs and finishes that match your home's decor. Also look for features like automatic defrost and cook settings. Timer options can be helpful. Certain microwaves also come with designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, so you can keep them looking pristine.
While microwaves for countertop use are simple to use, they take up valuable counter space that could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're concerned about this, consider an recessed model that could be incorporated into your cabinetry to create a sleek, custom look. Installing a small microwave oven in a kitchen island can provide more space and an attractive integrated appearance. It's important to keep in mind that a microwave with a recess needs adequate air clearance around its sides and the rear to work effectively.
Consider how often you use your microwave and the type of food you cook most often when deciding where to place it. If you're making a lot of frozen dinners and pizza, opt for the highest watt microwave that will heat food quickly and evenly. If you are cooking vegetables or foods that require a delicate heat, select a lower-wattage unit to keep from overcooking.
If you're unable to squeeze your microwave in an existing cabinet or prefer a smaller model, you can set it up on a small, portable stand. They have a base that can support the microwave and hold it upright, and they're often designed to repel fingerprints to keep it clean. They're a low-cost and practical option that can serve as a temporary microwave solution until you locate a permanent home for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to put an oven-sized microwave to the corner of your kitchen, and it could serve as a mini-hood to your stove. This is a great option to make space, however it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who require easy access to their kitchen. A corner microwave should also not be set in front of windows, as it could block the airflow and break glass in an emergency.