The Small Built In Microwave Mistake That Every Beginner Makes
How to Choose the Best Small Built in Microwave
A microwave that is placed in cabinetry, or beneath the counter, frees up valuable space and creates a seamless kitchen appearance. Installing them at a suitable level and in close proximity to other appliances such as a wall-mounted oven is also simple.
Choose from a variety door designs, including right-to-left swing-out or drop-down models that open in the same manner as a cabinet drawer. Think about other options, too.

Capacity
Microwaves are available in a wide variety of capacities and sizes to fit any kitchen. Choose from compact, built-in, countertop and low-profile microwaves. They can speed up mealtimes by offering features such as sensor cooking and a slim trimkit that saves space on the counter. Some models also feature a turntable that retracts to make loading and unloading dishes easier.
Think about the size of your family and if you'll be using the microwave to cook larger serving dishes like casseroles or platters. Choose a microwave that has the capacity to handle these larger items. A 2.2-cubic-foot model from Frigidaire for instance, is large enough to hold large dinner plates and platters.
microwave oven built in when choosing the right microwave is its power level. You should look for models that have greater wattage, which cook food more quickly and evenly. Some microwaves come with different power settings, which means you can adjust the power output according to what you're cooking.
Microwave dimensions vary by type, and usually include the dimensions of the exterior width, height and depth, as well as interior capacity. When shopping, exterior sizes are useful because they provide an idea of what to expect. However, the interior capacity is usually described separately on each page and could be efficient in determining which model is right for your home.
The space inside a microwave built-in is different from model to model but the majority will have an overall dimension that is around 24 inches with the door closed. Widths may be a little smaller to be able to match standard cutout sizes for cabinets and align with over-the-range models. The height and depth differ between models, but all microwaves must be installed at least 12 inches higher than the stove to allow ventilation.
Before installing a new microwave, determine the area you'd like to place it and clear any obstructions in the spot. Make sure you leave at least 1 inch space between the microwave and wall to allow for air circulation and 3 inches between the edge of the countertop and the doorway to avoid tipping.
Design
When deciding on the best small built in microwave, it is important to consider the overall kitchen design and how the appliance will fit in the space. You can integrate the appliance into your kitchen in a variety of ways. It can be hung on the wall, placed underneath the counter in a drawer arrangement or even recessed into the cabinetry. This allows the appliance to be integrated with other kitchen appliances and create a more seamless, integrated look.
The right door style is another important aspect to take into consideration. Many microwave models have doors that swing from left to right drop-down doors, drop-down doors or an open drawer. These options allow people of any height to easily access the appliance, and also reduce the space needed for countertops. Some microwaves come with many top-of-the-line features to give your kitchen a more premium feel.
It is also essential to be aware of the amount of power that is required to cook certain meals. Most microwaves will have a power rating displayed in the back of the unit. A model with higher wattage will allow for quicker cooking and heating. Although there are some models that have lower wattage ratings for those seeking a more energy-efficient option, it is important to note that these will typically take longer to cook and heat foods.
One of the most common ways to incorporate a small built-in microwave is installing it inside of an existing cabinet. These microwaves are available at a variety of price points, but they sit flush against the cabinet for an elegant appearance. It is crucial to read the instructions and owner's manual for the microwave you are considering.
Another option is to mount the microwave on the wall, for example, in a nook or pantry. This can create a clean sleek appearance that will aid in opening the kitchen. A professional Kitchen Designer will work with a homeowner to determine the best placement. It is crucial to keep in mind that the microwave needs sufficient air clearance on both side as well as the back in order to perform effectively.
Power
Microwaves are an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to complete various tasks quickly and easily. The power of a microwave can be measured in watts. This can impact the speed at which food is cooked. In built in microwaves , higher wattage microwaves can heat food faster and more efficiently than lower wattage microwaves.
Built-in microwaves are built into the cabinets in your kitchen, giving them an elegant, modern appearance that seamlessly blends with your other appliances and space. There are also built-in microwaves that take up less room and still have enough space inside for tall glasses and wide dishes.
You can also select from a wide range of control options to make cooking and warming food more comfortable and easy. You can pick models that feature sensor-cooking to make mealtimes easier. Tap-to-open features and a slim, sleek design make it easier to squeeze them in tight spaces.
Installation
Microwaves that are built into island and cabinet structures provide a sleek look that takes the appliance off your countertops, freeing up valuable counter space. These types of microwaves typically require professional installation however they do permit you to be creative in the layout of your kitchen. They also consume less space than freestanding microwaves, making them more suited to corners or spaces that are tight.
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer prior to installing your new microwave. You will find out how much ventilation space you need and the tools and materials required to complete the task. Depending on the model of your house the electrical system could have to be modified. If you're planning to do the installation yourself, be sure to turn off the power in your home prior to starting work.
Remove any trims or decorative pieces from the cabinet that could hinder the microwave from being placed properly. Make sure that the countertop is free of obstructions and there are no other appliances within the area. Utilize a stud-finder to find wall studs underneath the cabinet where you intend to place the microwave. You can also use a hammer to tap the wall to locate studs. If you hear a loud sound then you've found a good stud. Once you have located the wall studs using pencil, use a level to mark them. If your microwave came equipped with a cardboard template to use for drilling holes, you can tape it to the upper cabinet.
Most microwaves designed for recessed mounting or inside cabinets include venting systems that can be used with enclosed spaces. They'll explain what you'll need to do in order to have proper ventilation, for instance elevating the unit by a few inches or routing ventilation tubes through the exterior wall, cabinet, or island.
When installing a built-in microwave make sure that a person is holding the appliance in place as you attach it to the wall. Screws that can bear the weight of the microwave are recommended, for instance lag screws (also called toggle bolts). Attach the mounting plate to the wall with these screws and then run the power cord through a hole made specifically for this purpose.