How to Choose a Built in Microwave For Wall Unit
A built-in microwave for wall units gives a stylish design in your kitchen and frees up countertop space. They can be placed at a convenient height or near other appliances, such as a wall-mounted oven.
They can be positioned in the appliance garage, cabinet or hidden from view. Trim kits are available for a customized look. They can be equipped with child safety locks to stop accidental use.
Size
In cabinets or attached to the wall, built-in microwaves can help you reduce counter space and give your kitchen a modern appearance. This design is suitable for many kitchens and allows you to enjoy the benefits of a full kitchen remodeling without having to undertake a complete renovation. When shopping for an appliance, take into consideration its dimensions and features to ensure it will meet your cooking needs.
Before you begin drilling into your drywall or cabinetry take note of the opening you'll use for the built-in microwave to ensure it's the right size. Certain models might require a vent to be installed in your wall, which could increase installation cost and complexity. If you can, have an electrician or other professional install your new microwave to prevent mistakes.
The capacity of the interior of a built-in microwave determines the amount of food you can cook at a time. If you are cooking for an entire family, you should choose a larger model that can accommodate all of the food items. If you prefer to prepare dishes that require multiple steps like casseroles, think about a microwave equipped with an expandable turntable that can accommodate large dishes.
While the exterior sizes of built-in microwaves can vary by model, most follow standardized dimensions. Review the product's details to determine how wide, tall and deep the microwave is. Also be aware of the power levels that the microwave comes with and whether it comes with a defrost function or quick start buttons.
The best microwaves come with easy-to-use controls with a digital display to let you see the state of your food at an instant. Certain models have useful options, such as sensors that automatically set the proper amount of water needed for steaming vegetables and popcorn. The more control options your built-in microwave has, the simpler it will be to heat and cook food with precision.
Design
Microwaves built into cabinets, or attached to the wall, can free up counterspace and give the kitchen a more integrated look. This requires an electrician to connect the microwave into the electrical system of your home. This option is more expensive than a counter-top microwave.
Certain manufacturers have a trim kit that enables the Kitchen Designer to integrate a microwave built-in into the cabinetry with the rest of the kitchen fixtures and appliances. This is a great way to achieve a customized look without the cost of a complete kitchen remodel. The microwave needs adequate air clearance on all sides and also the back for it to function properly, so a Kitchen Designer will need to carefully plan the design for this type of installation.
Another popular option is to stack a built in microwave with a matching wall oven. This works well in Transitional and Traditional styled Kitchens. Manufacturers offer trim kits for both louvered and flat microwaves to fit the width of standard wall ovens, making this a simple and practical installation.
A Kitchen Designer can hide the microwave in a cabinet or tambour, or flip-up doors when it's not being used. There are a variety of doors to pick from such as pocket, tambour and swing-up doors to assist in making a microwave more compact and blend with the Kitchen's other cabinets.
One thing that should never be done is to store a microwave right in front of a window. It could block the light, and it is not a safe idea as the microwave can get hot and shatter or damage a window. Additionally, a microwave storing directly in front of a window will block the view and make it difficult to keep your Kitchen tidy.
Power
If you're looking to make a huge impact on your kitchen, consider the option of a built-in microwave which is set inside a cabinet for a streamlined look. These models can be set at a comfortable height or in close proximity to other appliances such as wall ovens for easier cooking and meal preparation.
Many built-in microwaves are available in a variety of sizes to fit your space. For example there are models with a width of 27 inches and 24 inches to match the width of most cabinets, or a 30 inch model that perfectly fits with a stove. There is also a variety of power levels, ranging from 800 to 1,200 watts. The greater the wattage of your cooker, the quicker it will cook and the more evenly heated it will be.
When selecting a model be sure to verify the size of your cabinet's opening as well as the electrical outlet prior to making any purchases. Installing your microwave may require a professional to ensure its proper functionality and conformity to local electrical codes.
Before starting any installation, make sure the power is off at the junction boxes and remove the cover if needed. Connect the cable from your junction box to the new microwave using an approved UL-listed or CSA-approved half-inch diameter conduit. Use screws to tighten and secure the conduit.
After the installation is completed, you can enjoy a streamlined and sophisticated kitchen design that frees up your counter space to do other tasks. Choose a stainless-steel appliance that is compatible with Whirlpool(r) to create a unified design. You can also include a built in wall oven microwave combo that blends the functions of a full size oven and microwave into one convenient appliance.
Controls
Built-in microwaves feature controls that allow you to set timers for meals, cook various dishes and defrost food items. Some of them are more user-friendly than others, which is why it's crucial to choose a model that has the features you use often. For example, if you frequently cook pizza or frozen dinners in the microwave, look for a model that has pre-programmed settings. Sensor cooking, which adjusts power levels automatically based on the type of food, is another control option. Defrost settings can help to defrost frozen food in a fraction of the time.
Built-in microwaves are sleeker and more sophisticated than countertop microwaves. They are installed in cabinets or a wall, thereby freeing space for counter space and giving a seamless look. Built-in microwaves typically come in a wide range of finishes, like white, black and stainless steel. Some even come with a Flush Built-In Design, which allows the appliance to sit flush with standard cabinet depths.
Most microwaves with built-in appliances have a door that opens and closes in order to reveal the microwave. Some hinged, while others slide out or open like a drawer. You can find models with doors that swing out or drop-down door that allows you to open the oven in any direction or position. Unlike countertop microwaves, built-in models require ventilation to ensure that the air circulates properly. Installation for these types of microwaves is usually more complex and should be handled by a professional to ensure adequate ventilation and safety. Some built-in models may be more expensive than freestanding microwaves, based on the model and type of installation.
Safety
It's important to ensure the stability of your microwave as it is a major kitchen appliance. This will prevent damage and accidents and maintain an organized and functional kitchen. Secure built in ovens and microwaves to a wall using brackets and screws. Be sure to adhere to the specific guidelines given by the manufacturer to avoid loosening or damaging your microwave.
If you prefer a sleeker appearance, you might want to consider placing your microwave in the upper or lower cabinet. This will hide the wires and cables, and can also be an option that is safe, since it reduces the chances of spilling food or liquids. You can get a more integrated look with an edging kit between the microwave and cabinet.
You can also hide your microwave by putting it in an area on the wall. This is the ideal solution for smaller spaces, and it will help free up counter space. However, it's important to note that this arrangement will require a professional installation, which is a a price.
In addition, you could put your microwave in a corner of the kitchen. This is an ideal solution for small spaces, but it is important to remember that this positioning requires you to bend or squat in order to access the microwave.
It is essential to clean your microwave and surrounding areas to eliminate any debris, especially flammable materials. Examine the electrical wiring and the power cords in your microwave on a regular schedule to ensure that they are in good shape. If you see signs of wear, seek out a professional to repair or replace the microwave.