How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven

Reduce counter space and work surface area by relocating your microwave to a recessed space in the wall or cabinetry. Built-in models work seamlessly to create the appearance of a sleek kitchen of all sizes.

This 1.2-cubic-foot oven comes with 10 power settings and presets to cook popular food items like pizza, popcorn and frozen vegetables. It also has a sensor that determines the cooking time according to the weight of food and density.

Power

A small built in microwave oven is a fantastic kitchen appliance for cooking or reheating meals. The majority of these appliances are powerful and can cook food quickly and evenly. It is essential to select the best microwave to meet your needs. A few features to think about are size as well as power level, design, and the control options. Some models have large icons on the screen to assist you in selecting the best settings, while others have a smooth control panel that are easy to read in various lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks available and the type of turntable.

When choosing a small micro it is essential to think about the machine's interior capacity. The typical countertop microwave is 1.2 to 2 cubic feet in size. A larger microwave can cook more food at a time, however it could take longer to heat. It is also important to check the exterior dimensions to ensure that it will fit in the desired space.

There are three types of microwave ovens: conventional, convection and oven. Conventional microwaves utilize electromagnetic radiation to cook food items, and are suitable for normal uses such as reheating leftovers and freezing frozen food items. Convection microwaves can be used to bake or roast food. They typically have a heating element and a fan which circulates hot air around. Finally an oven microwave integrates the functions of a traditional and convection microwave into one unit.

While wattage is an important aspect, you must also pay attention to the maximum and minimum power levels of your microwave oven. The minimum wattage required for an oven in the microwave range is 800 watts, while the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're buying new microwaves, avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts because it will not cook your food correctly.

If you're looking for a way to make space in your kitchen, consider installing a built-in microwave inside your cabinetry. This will help you save counter space and will make your kitchen look more sophisticated. You can even get trim kits to make your microwave look like it's part of the cabinets. These options are more expensive than countertop and over-the-range microwaves, but they're easier to access and can provide your kitchen with a premium appearance.

Convenience

A small microwave oven installed on a countertop is an easy and convenient way to heat up drinks and food. It makes space on the counter and allows for more room to prepare meals. It's important that you select a model that has the features you require. A lot of models have racks and a turntable and other kitchen accessories to help cook more easily. Some models also have a crisper pan that mimics traditional oven baking, providing crispness to food.

Microwaves come in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit the design of your kitchen. Some models even feature a recessive door that blends into the cabinetry for a custom appearance. It is important to consider the frequency and purpose you'll use your microwave when choosing the most suitable location. You'll also need to ensure that the space is large enough to allow ventilation, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.

One popular option for storing microwaves is above the refrigerator. This keeps the microwave off the counter and makes it easier to reach. However, it is hazardous for those with shorter heights or children, and requires you to take down and dispose of the microwave every 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 gives a seamless and unobtrusive appearance. It's also a good option for those who don't wish to invest in a microwave drawer but still require a space to heat food and drinks.

You can also install an open-top pantry shelf designed to fit microwaves. These shelves are wide enough to fit in any space and deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some shelves feature a curved corner that stops spills and tumbling.

Another option is to place the microwave on top of an identical wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This installation is classic and looks stunning in Transitional kitchens. Most manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave lines up with the oven's depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles, and can be installed flush or proud of the millwork.

Design

A built-in microwave is a useful kitchen appliance, but it's important to choose a design that integrates it into the rest of your kitchen layout. Its large footprint on the countertop can detract from aesthetics of your kitchen. There are many ways to conceal this versatile small appliance, without sacrificing the counter space or storage.

Another option is to build cabinets or an appliance garage to hide the microwave when not being used. This solution is especially useful for small kitchens with limited wall space. This kind of cabinet can be made to match the trim of your kitchen and door style, offering an elegant and unique appearance.

Another method to hide the microwave is to place it into your pantry cabinetry. This gives it a clean and uncluttered appearance while keeping it easily accessible. This kind of arrangement is ideal for a small kitchen. It can be combined with a different pantry cabinet to make the most of storage space.

Certain microwaves have racks or turntables that are built in that allow you cook multiple dishes simultaneously. These features make it more efficient and useful. However, it's important to use only microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid cooking and cookware made of metal or with metallic accents as these can cause sparks and damage the microwave oven builtin.

Microwaves intended to be put in drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. Ask your contractor to make sure the venting system is correctly specified. Additionally it is not recommended that a microwave be placed directly in front of a window, as this can block the window and prevent venting.

You can also incorporate a microwave into your kitchen layout by placing it on a counter or tucking it away on an island. A drawer-style microwave and oven integrated is a great choice for kitchens that have limited counter space, since it is easily accessible by people of all heights.

Another option is to place the microwave over a built in wall oven. This method is suitable for Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. To complete the installation, Kitchen Designers can use a trim kit to cover any gaps around the unit. These kits are available in louvered or flat styles and can be customized to the oven you have.

Cost

A small built in microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen improvement, adding style and functionality to your kitchen's design. Choose from a range of designs and finishes to fit in with your home's decor and look for features like auto defrost, cook settings, and timer options that make meal preparation easier. Some microwaves also have designs that help them resist fingerprints, so you can keep them looking clean.

While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space and could limit your kitchen's flexibility and design options. If you're concerned about this, consider a recessed model that can be fitted inside your cabinetry for an elegant, customized look. Installing a small, built in microwave for wall unit-in microwave oven in a kitchen island could also give more space and an attractive integrated appearance. It is important to remember that a microwave in recessed mode requires enough air around the sides and rear to function properly.

Consider how often you use your microwave and the type of food you cook the most often before deciding where to place it. If you cook mostly frozen meals and pizzas select a model with more power that will heat the food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or foods that require a delicate heat, choose an appliance with lower watts to keep from overcooking.

Install a small, portable stand if you are unable to fit the microwave into a cabinet or prefer a smaller. They are designed with a base that can hold the microwave in place, and keep it in a straight position and typically come with a surface that is resistant to fingerprints. These stands are a handy and affordable option that can be used to temporarily keep your microwave in storage until you can find an appropriate place to put it in the kitchen.

Another alternative is to put a small microwave oven to the corner of your kitchen, which can double as a mini-hood for your stove. While this is a great way to save space but it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who require access to the kitchen easily. A corner microwave should not be placed in front of a window since it may block airflow and break the glass in the case of an emergency.