How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven

Relocating your microwave into an area in the cabinetry or on the wall will save counter space and give you more work surface. Built-in models integrate seamlessly for a clean look in kitchens of all sizes.

This 1.2 cubic foot oven comes with 10 power settings, and presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. It also comes with a smart sensor that determines cooking time based on the weight of food and density.

Power

A small built-in microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance for cooking and warming food items. These appliances are typically powerful and can heat food quickly and evenly. The key is to find the ideal microwave oven that meets your requirements. The features you should consider include size, power level, design, and control options. Some models come with large icons that can assist you in selecting the right settings, while others feature smooth controls that are easy to spot in different lighting conditions. Other features to consider are the number of racks and the type of turntable.

When selecting a small microwave it is crucial to consider 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, but it will take longer to heat. It is also important to look at the dimensions of the exterior of a small microwave oven 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 with electromagnetic radiation. They are perfect for normal uses for reheating leftovers and defrosting foods. integrated microwave ovens are designed to bake and roast food, and they usually have an element of heating and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. A microwave oven combines the functions of convection and traditional microwave into one.

It is not enough to focus on the wattage, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum power level for microwave ovens is 800 watts and the maximum is 1,200 watts. Beware of buying a microwave that has less than 1,000 Watts as it will not properly cook your food.

If you're looking for a way to reduce the size of your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave into your cabinetry. This option will reduce counter space and make your home appear more refined. Trim kits are available that will make your microwave appear part of the cabinet. These are more expensive than countertop and over the range microwaves however, they are easier to use and can give your house a the look of a luxury.

Convenience

A small microwave that is built into a countertop provides an efficient and simple method of heating drinks and food. It makes space on the counter and provides more space to cook meals. It's crucial to ensure that you choose a model with the right features for your requirements. Many models come with a turntable and racks, along with other equipment to make cooking easier. Some models come with a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking and gives a crispy texture.

Microwaves are available in different sizes and finishes to match the style of your kitchen. Some models even feature a recessive door that blends into the cabinetry for a custom appearance. To choose the best location for your microwave, it's essential to think about how often you'll use it and who will be using it. You'll also need to ensure that the space is big enough to allow for ventilation, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of your microwave.

A popular method of storing microwaves is to place them 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 remove and dispose of the microwave every time you use it.


Another option is to place the microwave in a cabinet. This is a great option for those with a limited space on their countertops and provides a seamless, unobtrusive look. It's also a good option for those who don't want to buy microwave drawers but require a space to heat food and drinks.

Alternatively, you can install shelves that pull out to fit a microwave. The shelves are wide enough to fit any space, and are deep enough to keep them from tipping. Some shelves feature a curved corner that stops spills and falling.

Another option is to stack the microwave over the wall oven in a cabinet that is mid-height. This is a classic design and looks fantastic in Transitional kitchens. Many manufacturers provide trim kits to ensure that the microwave is in line with the oven's depth. These kits come in louvered and flat styles and can be mounted either flush or in the millwork.

Design

A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's essential to choose a design that blends with the rest of your kitchen layout. The large footprint of the countertop can detract from the aesthetics of your kitchen. There are many ways to hide this small appliance, without cutting down on the counter space or storage.

Installing an appliance or cabinet garage, to hide the microwave when not in use is one option. This option is especially beneficial for kitchens with small wall space. This kind of cabinet can be made to match your kitchen's trim and door design, providing an elegant, custom-designed design.

You can also conceal your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered appearance and keeps it easily accessible. This type of placement is perfect for a smaller kitchen and may be paired with other pantry cabinets to maximize storage space.

Some microwaves have racks or turntables built-in that allow you cook multiple dishes simultaneously. These features make it more efficient and useful. It is crucial to make use of microwave-safe cookware and utensils when using these appliances. Avoid using metal containers or cookware that has metallic accents. They can spark which could damage the microwave.

Microwaves intended to be put in a drawer or cabinet might have venting systems that are compatible with these enclosed spaces. However, it is essential to talk to your contractor to ensure the proper venting is planned. A microwave shouldn't be placed near windows, since it could block them and hinder the airflow.

There are a variety of ways to incorporate microwaves into your kitchen design, including mounting it under the counter or hiding it away in an island. The drawer-style microwave can be an ideal option for kitchens with a small counter space. It can be easily accessed by users of any height.

Another option is to stack the microwave over a matching built in wall oven. This type of installation is perfect for Transitional or Traditional-style Kitchens. Kitchen Designers may employ a trim kit for the final installation to cover any gaps. They are available in louvered and flat designs and can be combined to your oven.

Cost

A microwave with a small built-in oven can be an attractive kitchen upgrade, adding both design and function to your kitchen's design. Choose from a variety of designs and finishes to complement your home's decor, and look for features like automatic defrost cooking settings, cook settings, and timers that make meal preparation easier. Some microwaves also have designs that can ward off fingerprints, which means you can keep them clean.

While microwaves on the countertop are simple to use, they also take up valuable counter space and can limit your kitchen's versatility and design options. If you're concerned about this, think about an recessed model that could be installed within your cabinetry to create an elegant, customized look. A small built-in microwave oven that is installed on the kitchen island could give you more space while giving an attractive, integrated look. However, it's important to remember that a recessed microwave requires adequate air clearance around the rear and sides to work effectively.

When deciding where to put your microwave, take into consideration how often you'll make use of it and the type of food you usually cook. If you typically cook frozen meals and pizzas select a model with an increased wattage to cook your food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking vegetables or other foods that require more delicate heating, consider an appliance with a lower wattage to avoid overcooking and scorching.

Install a small, mobile stand if you are unable to fit the microwave inside a cabinet, or if you prefer a smaller. They have the capacity to support the microwave and keep it in place, and are often designed to repel fingerprints to ensure a neat appearance. They're an inexpensive and convenient option that can serve as an interim microwave solution until you can locate a permanent home for it in your kitchen.

A small microwave can be added to the corner of your home and it can double as a mini hood to your stove. While this is a great way to reduce space but it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly residents who need easy access to the kitchen. Moreover, a corner microwave should not be placed directly on top of a window since it can block ventilation and can shatter the glass in the event of an emergency.