Small Built In Microwave: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
How to Choose a Small Built in Microwave Oven
The idea of putting your microwave in a cavity in the cabinetry or wall will save you counter space and provide you with more work surfaces. Built-in microwaves are a fantastic option for kitchens of any size. They blend seamlessly into the wall or cabinetry.
This 1.2-cubic-foot oven has 10 power settings and presets for popular foods such as pizza, popcorn and frozen veggies. It also comes with a smart sensor that calculates the cooking time based upon food weight and density.
Power
A microwave oven with a small built-in microwave is an excellent kitchen appliance for cooking and reheating food items. These appliances are usually powerful and can heat food quickly and evenly. It is crucial to select the right microwave for your requirements. Consider best built in microwave as size, power, design and control options. Certain models have large icons on the display that help you select the right 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 crucial aspects to take into consideration.
When choosing a small micro, it is important to take into account the machine's internal capacity. The typical countertop microwave has a capacity of 1.2 to 2.2 cubic feet. A larger microwave can cook more food in one go, but it will take longer to heat. It is important to take a look at the exterior dimensions of a microwave oven that is small to ensure it can be placed in the space you want it to be.
There are three kinds of microwaves: convection, conventional and oven. Conventional microwaves heat food with electromagnetic radiation. They are ideal for everyday use for cooking leftovers and defrosting foods. Convection microwaves are designed to roast and bake, and they usually have heating elements and a fan that circulate hot air around the food. Finally an oven microwave blends the functions of a conventional and convection microwave into a single unit.
You shouldn't just be aware of the power, but also to the maximum and minimum power of your microwave. The minimum wattage for a microwave oven is 800 watts, while the maximum is 1,200 watts. If you're buying a new microwave, you should avoid purchasing a model with less than 1,000 watts since it won't cook your food properly.
If you're looking for a way to save space in your kitchen, think about installing a built-in microwave in your cabinetry. This can help you save counter space and will make your home appear more elegant. You can also purchase trim kits to make your microwave appear like it's part cabinets. best rated built in microwave are more expensive than countertop microwaves and over-the-range models however, they are easier to use and can give your house a an elegant look.
Convenience
A microwave with a small built-in oven is a convenient method of heating drinks and food. It saves space on countertops and allows space for meal preparation. However, it's important to ensure that you select one that has the best features to meet your needs. A lot of models have racks and a turntable as well as other accessories to make cooking more convenient. Certain models come with a crisper tray that mimics traditional oven baking, and provides a crispy texture.
Microwaves come in various sizes and styles to fit your kitchen design. Some models have a recessed door that blends into the cabinetry for a custom appearance. To determine the ideal location for your microwave, you need to think about the frequency of use and who will use it. You'll also need to ensure that the space is large enough to allow for ventilation, according to the instructions provided by your manufacturer.
Above the refrigerator is an ideal place to store a microwave. This keeps the appliance off your countertop and makes it easier to reach. It could be dangerous for children or those with shorter legs, and you'll have to remove and store the microwave each time you use it.
Another option is to put the microwave inside an additional cabinet. This is a great option for those with a limited counter space. It also offers a seamless and unobtrusive appearance. It's also a great option for people who don't want to purchase a microwave drawer but still require a space to cook food and beverages.
You can also install a pull-out pantry shelf designed to fit microwaves. These shelves are large enough to fit any space, and are deep enough to stop them from tipping. Some shelves feature a curved corner to prevent 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 installation and is ideal for Transitional style kitchens. Most manufacturers offer trim kit to align the microwave with the oven depth. These kits are available in louvered and flat styles and can be installed proud of the millwork or flush mounted.
Design
A built-in microwave can be a handy kitchen appliance, but it's important to choose a design that blends into the rest of your layout. The countertop occupies a sizable footprint that can be a hindrance to the design of your kitchen. There are a myriad of ways to hide this small appliance, without having to sacrifice the counter space or storage space.
Installing a cabinet, or appliance garage, to conceal the microwave when it is not in use is one option. This is particularly useful in kitchens that are small and have limited wall space. This type of cabinet can be customised to match the trim of your kitchen and door style, giving you a sleek custom appearance.
You can also hide your microwave by placing it in the cabinetry of your pantry. This will give your kitchen a neat and uncluttered look and keeps it easily accessible. This kind of arrangement is perfect for the kitchen with a small space. It can be combined with another pantry cabinet to maximize storage.
Certain microwaves have turntables or racks built in which allow you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. These features make the appliance more efficient and help you save time. However, it's important to use only microwave-safe cooking equipment and cookware when using these appliances. Avoid metal containers or cookware with metallic accents, as these can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Microwaves designed to be placed inside drawers or cabinets may have venting systems that work in these enclosed spaces. However, it is essential that you consult with your contractor to ensure that the proper venting is specified. Additionally, a microwave should never be placed directly in front of a window, since this could hinder venting.
There are best built in microwave oven to incorporate a microwave into your kitchen layout, including mounting it under the counter or hiding it away in an island. The drawer-style microwave can be a great option for kitchens with small counter space. It is easily accessible by users of any height.
Another option is stacking the microwave on top of a built-in wall oven. This kind of setup works well in Transitional or Traditional Kitchens. Kitchen Designers can employ a trim kit for the final installation to fill in any gaps. They are available in louvered and flat styles and can be customized to the oven you have.
Cost
A small microwave oven can be a stylish kitchen upgrade, adding both aesthetics and functionality to your new kitchen design. Choose from a range of models and finishes to match your decor and look for features such as defrost settings that are automatic, cook settings, and timer options which make meal preparation easier. Some microwaves also have designs that make them resistant to fingerprints, which means you can keep them looking clean.
Countertop microwaves are convenient however they can take up valuable counter space and reduce the design and functionality of your kitchen. If you're concerned about this, you might want to consider a recessed model that can be installed within your cabinetry to create a sleek, custom look. Installing a small microwave oven in your kitchen island can provide more space and an attractive integrated appearance. It's important to keep in mind that a microwave with a recess needs sufficient air space around the sides and rear to perform effectively.

When deciding where to place your microwave, think about the frequency you use it and what type of food you cook. If you prepare mostly frozen meals and pizzas select a model with more power that will cook food quickly and evenly. If you're cooking food items or vegetables that require a delicate heat, opt for the lower wattage model to keep from overcooking.
If you're unable to fit your microwave in a cabinet or prefer a more compact model, you can set it up on a small, movable stand. These stands have a base that can support the microwave and keep it in place, and are typically designed to block fingerprints to keep it clean. They're a cheap and easy alternative that can be used as a temporary microwave solution until you find a more permanent location for it in your kitchen.
Another alternative is to install a microwave in the corner of your kitchen, which can serve as a mini-hood to your stove. While this is a great method of reducing space but it's not recommended for homes with children or elderly people who require access to the kitchen easily. A corner microwave should also not be set in front of windows, as it could block the airflow and shatter glass in the event of a crisis.