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 surfaces. Built-in models work seamlessly to create sleek kitchens of all sizes.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven comes with 10 power settings, as well as presets for the most popular foods such as popcorn, pizza and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that calculates the cooking time according to the weight of food and density.
Power
A small built-in microwave oven is an excellent kitchen appliance for cooking and warming food. The majority of these appliances are powerful and can heat food quickly and evenly. The most important thing is to find the best microwave oven for your requirements. Some features to consider include size and power level, design, and options for controlling. Certain models have large icons on the screen to assist you in selecting the best settings, while others have sleek control panels that are easy to read in different lighting conditions. Other things to consider are the number of racks and the type of turntable.
When you are choosing a small microwave it is essential to take a look at the interior capacity of the machine. The typical countertop microwave measures 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger capacity microwave will cook more food in one go, but it will take longer to heat. It is also important to check the dimensions of the exterior to ensure that it fits into your desired location.
There are three types of microwaves: convection, conventional and oven. Conventional microwaves utilize electromagnetic radiation to cook food, and are best for standard uses such as reheating leftovers, or defrosting frozen foods. Convection microwaves can be used to roast or bake food. They typically have a heating element and a fan that circulates hot air around the. A microwave oven blends the functions of a convection and conventional microwave into one.
While wattage is a crucial consideration, you should also be aware of the maximum and minimum power levels of your microwave oven. The minimum wattage for a microwave oven is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. Avoid buying a microwave with less than 1,000 Watts, as it will not properly cook your food.
Installing a built-in microwave in your cabinetry is an excellent method to save space. This option will save counter space and make your home appear more sophisticated. There are trim kits that make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These options are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range however they are more accessible and provide your kitchen with a premium appearance.
Convenience
A small microwave that is that is built into a countertop provides a convenient and easy method to heat food and beverages. It makes space on the counter and allows for more room to prepare meals. But, it's essential to ensure that you choose the right features for your needs. Many models have racks, a turntable, and other equipment which make cooking more convenient and more efficient. Certain models also come with an oven that is crisper, which mimics traditional oven baking, bringing a crispy texture to food.
Microwaves come in different sizes and finishes to suit your kitchen design. Some models even feature a concealed door that blends in with the cabinetry for a custom appearance. It is important to consider the frequency and purpose you will use your microwave when choosing the ideal place to put it. You'll also need to ensure that the space is large enough to allow adequate ventilation, in accordance with the instructions of your manufacturer.
Above the refrigerator is an ideal place to store microwaves. This keeps the appliance off your countertop and makes it easy to reach. It can be hazardous to shorter people or children and you will need to take it off and store the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in a separate cabinet. This is a great solution for those with a little 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 nevertheless want a practical way to heat up drinks and food.
You can also install a pullout pantry shelf that is designed to fit microwaves. They are wide enough to avoid tipping and are available in a variety of widths to suit your space. 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 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 align the microwave with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be mounted on top or flush with the millwork.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to choose a design that integrates it into the rest of your kitchen design. Its large footprint on the countertop can detract from aesthetics of your kitchen. Luckily, there are many ways to hide this versatile small appliance, without sacrificing storage or countertop space.
Another option is to build a cabinet or appliance garage to hide the microwave when it's not in use. This option is particularly useful for kitchens with smaller walls where wall space is limited. This type of cabinet can be customised to match your kitchen's trim and door style, giving you an elegant and unique look.
Another method to hide a microwave is to incorporate it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This offers a clean and uncluttered look and keeps the microwave within reach. This kind of arrangement is ideal for a small kitchen and may be paired with other cabinets in the pantry to maximize storage space.
Some microwaves come with turntables or racks built in that allow you cook multiple dishes simultaneously. These features make the appliance more efficient and can save you time. It is essential to use microwave-safe cookware, utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid using metallic containers or cookware that has metallic accents. These can create sparks which can damage the microwave.
Ovens & Hobs designed to be installed inside drawers or cabinets can feature venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. It is important to consult your contractor to ensure that the proper venting is specified. Additionally it is not recommended that a microwave be placed directly in the direction of a window since this could cause obstruction to the window and hinder venting.
You can incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by putting it under a counter or hidden on an island. A microwave with a drawer is a great choice for kitchens with a limited counter space since it can be easily accessed by anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave over a built-in wall oven. This method is ideal for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers may employ a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. They are available in louvered and flat styles and can be combined to your oven.
Cost
A small built-in microwave oven is a great way to update your kitchen. It adds style and function. Find models and finishes that complement your home's decor. Also look for features such as automatic defrost and cook settings. The timer option is also useful. Certain microwaves also come with designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, which means you can keep them looking pristine.
While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space that could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're worried about this, you might want to consider an recessed model that could be installed within the cabinetry for a sleek, unique appearance. A small built in microwave oven that is installed on a kitchen island can also help to free up space while providing an attractive, integrated look. It's important to keep in mind that a microwave with a recess needs adequate air clearance around the sides and the rear to work effectively.
Consider how often you use your microwave and the kind of food you cook most frequently when deciding where to put it. If you typically cook frozen meals and pizzas pick a microwave that has more power that will heat the food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require a more delicate heating, consider using a smaller wattage model that can prevent overcooking and scorching.
Install a mobile, small stand if you're unable to fit the microwave inside a cabinet or prefer a smaller model. These stands have 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 option that can be used to store your microwave until you can find the right place for it in the kitchen.
A small microwave can be added to the corner of your home and it can double as a mini hood for your stove. This is a great option to save space but it is not recommended for homes with elderly or children that need easy access to their kitchen. A corner microwave should not be set in the windows in front of them, as it could hinder ventilation and shatter glass in the event of a crisis.