How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Relocating your microwave into a cabinet or on the wall will save counter space and give you more work surface. Built-in microwaves are a great option for kitchens of any size. They seamlessly blend into the wall or cabinetry.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets to cook popular foods like popcorn, pizza and frozen veggies. It also has a sensor that determines the cooking duration according to the weight of food and density.
Power
A small built-in microwave oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance for cooking and warming food. Typically, these appliances are powerful and can cook foods quickly and evenly. It is important to choose the correct microwave for your needs. Think about features such as size, power, design and control options. Certain models have large icons on the display that assist you in selecting the best options, while others have smooth control panels 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 microwave it is essential to take a look at the interior capacity of the machine. The average 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 also important to look at the exterior dimensions of a microwave oven that is small to ensure that it's a good fit in the space you want it to be.
There are three types of microwaves: convection, conventional, and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food using electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for standard uses, such as reheating left-overs and defrosting food items. Convection microwaves can be used to bake or roast food. They usually come with a heating element and an air-flow fan that circulates hot air around it. A microwave oven combines the functions a convection and conventional microwave into one.
While wattage is an important aspect, you must also be aware of the maximum and minimum power levels of your microwave. The minimum power of a microwave is 800, and the maximum power is 1,200. If you're purchasing a new microwave, avoid getting a model with less than 1,000 watts since it won't cook your food correctly.
Installing a built-in micro within your cabinetry is a great option to reduce space. This option will save you counter space and make your kitchen look more refined. You can get trim kits that will make your microwave appear to be part of the cabinet. These models are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves however they are easier to access and can give your kitchen a high-end look.
Convenience
A small built in microwave oven is a handy way to heat drinks and food. It helps to save space on countertops and frees up room for meal prep. It is essential to choose a model that has the features you need. Many models come with a turntable and racks, and other kitchen accessories to help cook more easily. Some models also have a crisper pan that mimics traditional oven baking, adding crisp texture to food items.
Microwaves are available in different sizes and finishes to suit your kitchen design. Some models even feature a recessive door that blends into the cabinetry to create a unique appearance. It is important to consider the frequency and duration you'll use your microwave before deciding on the ideal place to put it. It is also important to ensure that the space is large enough to allow adequate ventilation, according to the directions of the manufacturer.
A common place to store microwaves is to place them above the refrigerator. This placement keeps the appliance off the countertop and makes it easy to reach. It can be hazardous 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 a great solution for those with a limited countertop space. It also gives a sleek, minimalist look. It's also a great option for people who don't want to buy a microwave drawer but still require a reliable place to heat food and drinks.
You can also add an open pantry shelf that is designed to fit microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit in any space and deep enough to prevent them from tipping. Some shelves have a curving corner that prevents spills and falling.
Another option is to place the microwave above an identical wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a traditional setup and is a great choice for Transitional style kitchens. Many manufacturers offer trim kits to ensure that the microwave aligns with the oven's depth. These kits come in louvered and flat styles, and can be installed flush or proud of the millwork.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's important to find a design that blends with the rest of your layout. A countertop-based microwave occupies a sizable footprint that hinders the aesthetics of your kitchen. There are plenty of ways to conceal this small appliance, without having to sacrifice countertop space or storage.
Another option is to build an appliance garage or cabinet to conceal the microwave when it's not being used. This solution is particularly effective for kitchens with smaller walls where wall space is limited. This type of cabinet can be customized to match your kitchen's trim and door design, providing a sleek custom look.
You can also hide your microwave by adding it to the cabinetry of your pantry. This gives it a clean and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This type of placement is ideal for small kitchens. It can be combined with a pantry cabinet to make the most of storage space.
Some microwaves have built-in turntables or racks that allow you to cook several dishes at once. These features make the appliance more efficient and help you save 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 specifically designed to be mounted inside drawers or cabinets can feature venting systems that work in these enclosed spaces. Talk to your contractor to ensure that the venting is properly specified. A microwave shouldn't be placed in front of windows, because it could block windows and prevent venting.
You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by putting it on a counter or hiding it on an island. A drawer-style microwave is a great choice for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it is accessible by anyone of any height.
built in microwave oven combo is to place the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This method is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can utilize a trim kit in the final installation to cover any gaps. The kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be customized to match your oven.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be a stunning kitchen upgrade, adding both style and functionality to your kitchen's design. Find models and finishes that complement your home's decor. Also, look for features such as auto defrost and cooking settings. The timer option is also beneficial. Certain microwaves also come with designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, so you can keep them clean.
Countertop microwaves are useful, but they can occupy valuable counterspace and limit the design and versatility of your kitchen. If this is a problem, you may think about a recessed microwave that can be placed inside your cabinet. This will give it a sleek, custom appearance. Installing a small built-in microwave oven in your kitchen island can provide more workspace and a stylish integrated appearance. It is crucial to remember that a microwave with a recess needs sufficient airflow around the sides and the rear to function properly.
When deciding where to place your microwave, take into consideration the frequency you make use of it and the type of food you typically cook. If you're making a lot of frozen dinners and pizza, opt for a higher wattage microwave that will heat food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or foods that require a less delicate heat, select the lower wattage model to keep from overcooking.
If you're not able to fit your microwave inside a cabinet or prefer a smaller model, you can put it on a small, portable stand. They have the capacity to support the microwave and hold it up straight, and they're typically designed to block fingerprints to keep it clean. They're a low-cost and practical option that can be used as an interim microwave solution until you find a more permanent location for it in your kitchen.
Install a small microwave in the corner of your home, where it will double as a mini-hood for your stove. This is a great option to make space, however it's not recommended for homes with elderly or children that need easy access to their kitchen. Moreover, a corner microwave should not be placed directly on top of a window because it could block the ventilation and could shatter the glass in the situation of an emergency.