Choosing a Microwave Oven Builtin
A built-in microwave can be a great option if you're fed up with freestanding models taking up space on your worktop. Built to fit inside cabinets, with some flush installation styles available for an elegant appearance and keep your kitchen tidy.
While features such as pre-programmed settings and sensor cooking are useful, only choose the model that comes with features you actually need. Also, don't forget the cost of installation, which must be done by an expert.
Size
When selecting a built-in microwave oven you should consider the size of your kitchen cabinet and cabinet into consideration to ensure you select the correct model for your space. Microwaves are available in standard cabinet sizes of 24, 27, and 30 inches. You should also consider the capacity, as this will determine the size of food you can cook in a given time.
Another important factor when selecting the right microwave is price. Microwaves can be purchased in different price points depending on the size, features and the brand you select. Installation costs must also be taken into consideration. Freestanding microwaves are generally less expensive to purchase and install as you simply place them on the counter and connect them to the outlet.
Power
The cooking power of microwaves (wattage) is what determines how quickly and efficiently your food will be cooked. In general, higher wattages will cook faster, however less expensive models can still satisfy the majority of requirements. We recommend choosing a model with at minimum 1,000 watts. Microwaves with less wattage can cook unevenly and require longer to cook food than microwaves with higher wattages.
To determine the power of your microwave, refer to the user manual or look at the serial number plate in. You can compare the wattage of different models to select the one that is best suited to your requirements.
There are microwaves that are designed to sit within cabinets or be installed into a wall to give an integrated appearance. Some of them have high-end features to give an elegant look and feel. There are countertop microwaves with kits for integrated installation to reduce space in your kitchen and give it a customized appearance.
Although a microwave with an integrated oven has a sleek appearance, you'll have to pay more for the convenience of this installation method compared to other types of microwaves. These models are more difficult to repair or replace when they fail, and you will have to pay someone to put them in place. Over-the-range and countertop microwaves don't require installation fees. You'll need to check that the model you pick is suitable for the space you plan to use it in. You'll need to measure the space to ensure that you can locate an appliance that has the capacity that is compatible with your requirements. The greater the power you require the more powerful the microwave needs to be to accommodate your food.
Convection
Convection is a feature which allows microwave ovens to bake or brown food in addition to reheating. The heating element and the fan of the microwave oven work together to circulate hot dry air around the food in the microwave, similar to an oven. This allows the appliance cook food more evenly.
Microwave radiation is emitted from the magnetron that is located in a small chamber inside the oven, generating microwaves that heat up and cook the food. Microwaves, an electromagnetic wave, haven't been proven to cause cancer through long-term studies of rodents. The microwaves produced by the microwave oven don't present any risk to the safety of anyone. Unlike conventional ovens which emit high-energy radiation that is capable of burning the microwaves emanate from the oven door.
Vibrations and the various rates of absorption of energy by food can result in uneven heating of a dish that has been microwaved. This problem can be addressed by stirring the food or by using a the use of a turntable that rotates the dish while it cooks.
Some built-in microwaves are designed to fit in a kitchen cabinet for an attractive appearance and simple access. Trim kits are available for these models to fill in any gaps that may exist between the microwave and the cabinet. This will give the model a seamless look. Other models are countertop models that are placed on kitchen counters and plug directly into a power outlet. Countertop models can be used to replace a countertop oven or can be combined with a microwave for an all-in-one appliance that makes the most of space. Some countertop models come with a drawer that can be opened and closed by pressing a button. This makes them more accessible.
Controls
A builtin microwave eliminates the need to have an additional appliance taking up counter space. It can be fixed to the wall or incorporated in a cabinet to create an elegant look in your kitchen. It is essential to select the appropriate size, power, and features to meet the needs of your family.
The controls on the built-in microwave could differ, but they usually include an LCD or LED display to show cooking results and program and buttons to select the desired cooking time, and a defrost feature. Some models have a sensor to automatically detect and defrost foods at the touch of a button. A timer and key lock prevent unwanted or accidental operation, while a safety interlock ensures the oven cannot be run when the door is opened.
Certain manufacturers offer models with touch screens for added convenience. Other models come with finishes such as stainless steel with PrintShieldTM that resists fingerprints and smudges. A microwave tray that is dishwasher safe will make cleanup easier.
Microwave ovens heat food using electromagnetic waves of very short wavelengths by vibrating molecules directly inside the cooking chamber. The technology was developed following World War II using radar technology that was used during the war. The radiation released by microwaves is not ionizing and does not pose any health risks when the oven door is shut and secured properly.
A built-in microwave can replace the countertop or undercounter model and can also be integrated into an over-the-range or wall oven. A professional installer can complete the installation for you. It could be necessary to replace a cabinet panel to accommodate the new appliance, based on the space available. It is also important to consider whether the existing cabinetry will be able to take on the airflow and noise generated by a microwave.
Style
Traditional countertop microwaves rest directly on the counter in your kitchen and over-the-range models are placed over your stove, built-in microwaves can be integrated into your cabinetry to create a more streamlined look. They are available in a variety of configurations, such as flush mounts and slide-out drawers, which allow you to put them at a level that is comfortable for your family and make an easy transition into your kitchen. white built in microwave oven come with more sophisticated features that give them a premium feel.
When you're weighing your options it's important to consider how often you utilize the features of a microwave and whether they fit your daily cooking routine. For example, pre-programmed settings and defrost options can make cooking for busy families, but you'll want to determine if these features actually make life easier or just replace manual steps.
Certain manufacturers have also experimented with combination microwave-ranges that blend traditional ovens with microwave capabilities. These models are an ideal choice for families that frequently use both conventional and microwave heat sources but are constrained by the limited space on their counters.
It's important to check local codes and regulations, no matter the model you select, prior to installing a microwave within your home. You may need an approval or professional installation assistance, particularly if ductwork is required. It is also important to make sure that the area in which the microwave is to be installed is ventilated enough. A venting system can help ensure that the appliance is operating safely and minimizes the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.