How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
Reclaim counter space and space for work surfaces by moving your microwave to a recessed cavity in the cabinetry or wall. Built-in models integrate seamlessly for the appearance of a sleek kitchen of all sizes.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven comes with 10 power settings, and presets for common foods like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also comes with a smart-sensor that determines the cooking duration according to the weight of food and density.
Power
A small built in microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance for cooking or warming meals. These appliances are typically high-powered, and can heat food quickly and evenly. The most important thing is to find the best microwave oven for your requirements. The features you should consider include size, power level, design, and the control options. Certain models have large icons on the screen to aid you in choosing the best options, while others have smooth control panels that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. Other things to consider are the number of racks available and the type of turntable.
When choosing a micro that is small it is crucial to take into account the machine's internal capacity. The typical countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food at the same time, but it will take longer to heat. It's also important to look at the exterior dimensions of a microwave oven that is small to ensure that it's a good fit in your desired location.
There are microwaves built in of microwave ovens: conventional, convection and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food with electromagnetic radiation. They are great for normal uses for cooking leftovers and defrosting food. Convection microwaves are designed to bake and roast food, and they usually have a fan and heating elements that circulate hot air around the food. A microwave oven combines the functions of a convection and conventional microwave into one unit.
You shouldn't just be aware of the wattage, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage required for a microwave oven is 800 watts, while the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're purchasing new microwaves, avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts since it will not cook your food properly.
If you're looking for a way to reduce the size of your kitchen, consider installing a built-in microwave into your cabinetry. This will help you save counter space and make your kitchen appear more elegant. You can also purchase trim kits to make your microwave look like it's part cabinets. These options are more expensive than microwaves that are countertop or over-the-range but they're much more accessible and give your kitchen a luxurious look.
Convenience
A small microwave oven is a convenient method of heating beverages and food. It makes space on the counter and allows for more space to prepare meals. It is important to select one that has the features you need. Many models have racks, a turntable, and other features that make cooking easier and more efficient. Certain models also come with a crisper pan that mimics traditional oven baking, bringing a crispy texture to food items.
Microwaves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that will fit into any kitchen design. Some models feature doors that are recessed, which blend into the cabinetry to give it a custom appearance. It's important to think about the frequency and duration you will use your microwave before deciding on the ideal location. You'll also need to ensure that the space is big enough to allow for ventilation, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your microwave.
Above the refrigerator is an ideal place to store a microwave. This keeps the microwave off your counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it can be hazardous for those with shorter heights or children and requires you to take down and clean the microwave every time you use it.
Another option is to place the microwave in a separate cabinet. This is a great solution for people with limited countertop space and offers a seamless, unobtrusive look. It's also a great option for those who don't wish to purchase a microwave drawer but still require a reliable place to warm food and drinks.
Alternatively, you can install a pull-out pantry shelf designed to accommodate microwaves. These shelves are large enough to fit any space and deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some options even have an edge that is curved to help keep spills from happening and prevents tipping.
Another option is to place the microwave over an oven that is a match in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a traditional setup and is ideal for Transitional style kitchens. Many manufacturers offer trim kits to align the microwave with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered or flat designs and can be mounted on top of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to find a design that integrates it into the rest of your layout. The huge footprint it leaves on the countertop can detract from the appearance of your kitchen. There are many ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without having to sacrifice counter space or storage.
Installing a cabinet, or appliance garage, to hide the microwave when it is not being used is an option. This is particularly useful for kitchens with small wall space. This type of cabinet can be made to match your kitchen's trim and door design, providing an elegant, custom-designed appearance.
You can also conceal your microwave by incorporating it into the cabinetry of your pantry. This creates a neat and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This type of placement is ideal for a small kitchen. It can be used with a pantry cabinet to increase storage.
Some microwaves have turntables or racks built in that let you cook several dishes simultaneously. These features make the appliance even more efficient and help you save time. However, it is essential to use only microwave-safe cooking utensils and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid using metal cookware or containers with metallic accents, since they can spark and damage the microwave.
Microwaves intended to be put in drawers or cabinets might have venting systems that can be used with these enclosed spaces. However, it is essential that you consult with your contractor to ensure that the proper venting is in place. Also the microwave should not be placed directly in the direction of a window because this could block the window and prevent ventilation.
You can incorporate a microwave into your kitchen design by mounting it on a counter or tucking it away in an island. The drawer-style microwave is an ideal option for kitchens with small counter space. It is easily accessible by anyone of any height.
Another option is to stack the microwave on top of a built-in wall oven. This kind of setup is ideal for Transitional or Traditional-style kitchens. Kitchen Designers can utilize a trim kit in the final installation to cover any gaps. These kits come in flat and louvered styles and can be used in conjunction to your oven.
Cost
A microwave with a small built-in oven can be a stunning kitchen upgrade, adding both aesthetics and functionality to your kitchen's new design. Choose models and finishes that complement the decor of your home. Also look for features such as automatic defrost or cooking settings. The timer option is also beneficial. Certain microwaves come with designs that are resistant to fingerprints, which means they look clean.
While microwaves on the countertop 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, think about an recessed model that could be fitted inside your cabinetry to create a sleek, custom look. A small microwave built-in oven installed in the kitchen island could help to free up space while providing a stylish, integrated appearance. However, it's important to note that a recessed microwave requires sufficient air space around the sides and the rear to function properly.
Think about how often you use your microwave and the kind of food items you cook the most often when deciding where to place it. If you prepare mostly pizzas and frozen meals pick a microwave that has a higher wattage that will heat the food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or other foods that require delicate heating, consider an appliance with a lower wattage to avoid overcooking and scorching.
Install a mobile, small stand if you're unable to fit the microwave inside cabinets or prefer a smaller model. These stands are designed with a base designed to hold the microwave in place, and keep it up straight and usually have a fingerprint-resistant surface. They're a low-cost and practical alternative that can be used as a temporary microwave solution until you can find a more permanent location for it in your kitchen.
Another option is to add a microwave in the corner of your kitchen, and it could double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a great way to save space however, it is not recommended for homes with small children or elderly people who need access to the kitchen easily. A corner microwave should not be set in the window's direction, since it could block the airflow and shatter glass in the event of an emergency.