How to Choose a Built in Microwave For Wall Unit
A built-in microwave in a wall units gives a stylish design in your kitchen and frees up countertop space. They can be placed at an appropriate height or in close proximity to other appliances like an oven mounted on the wall.
They can be positioned in the appliance garage, cabinet or hidden from the view. Trim kits can be purchased for a customized appearance. They can also have child safety locks to prevent accidental use.
Size
Reclaim counter space and get a modern look with built-in microwaves installed in your cabinets or on a fixed wall. This option is perfect for many kitchens and lets you enjoy the benefits of remodeling your kitchen without the need for a complete renovation. Think about the dimensions and features of microwaves to ensure it meets your requirements.
Before drilling into your drywall or cabinetry take note of the opening that you'll use for the built-in microwave to ensure it's the right dimension. Some models require that vents be inserted into the wall. This can add costs and the complexity. Installing your new microwave by a professional if possible to avoid making mistakes.
The capacity of the interior of a built-in microwave determines the amount of food you can cook at a time. If you're cooking for a family consider a bigger model to accommodate the entire family's meals. If you prefer to prepare meals that require multiple steps such as casseroles, consider the use of a microwave with an expandable turntable that'll be able to hold large dishes.
While the dimensions of the exteriors of built-in microwaves can vary by model, the majority of them use standard dimensions. Look over the product's specifications to find out how wide, tall and deep the microwave is. Also take note of the power levels it has and whether it has an option to defrost or quick start buttons.
Some microwaves have digital displays that show the condition of your food at an instant. Some models have convenient features, such as a sensor that automatically sets the right amount water to steam popcorn and vegetables. The more options to control the microwave has, the easier it will be to heat and cook food with accuracy.
Design
Microwaves that are built into cabinets, or fixed to the wall, will make space for counter space and give the kitchen a more unified appearance. This is a requirement for an electrician to connect the microwave into the electrical system of your home. This option is more expensive than a countertop microwave.
Certain manufacturers have a trim kit that enables a Kitchen Designer to fully incorporate a microwave into the cabinetry along with the other kitchen fixtures and appliances. This is a great way to create a unique appearance without the expense of a full Kitchen remodel. A Kitchen Designer must carefully design this kind of installation as the microwave requires air clearance on the sides and back to perform effectively.
Another popular option is stacking the built-in microwave with a matching oven. This can be a good choice for Transitional and Traditional kitchens. Manufacturers offer trim kits that match the dimensions of standard wall ovens for louvered microwaves and flat ones.
A Kitchen Designer can hide the microwave in a cabinet or tambour doors when not being used. There are integrated combi microwave of doors to choose from such as pocket, tambour and swing-up doors that aid in tucking a microwave into and blend in with the kitchen's other cabinetry.
One thing that should never be done is to put microwaves in front of a window. This could block light and is not a wise choice as the microwave can get hot and shatter or damage windows. A microwave that is set directly in front a window will also block the view and make it difficult to clean your kitchen.
Power
If you're looking to make a big impact on your kitchen, think about an integrated microwave that is placed inside a cabinet to create sleek design. These models can be set at a level that is comfortable for you or near other appliances like wall ovens to make it easier for cooking and meal preparation.
There are a variety of built-in models that are available in various sizes to meet your needs. There are models in sizes of 27 inches and 24 inches to fit most cabinets, or a 30 inch model that is perfect for the stovetop. You can pick from a variety of wattages, ranging from 800 to 1200 watts. The more powerful your cooker, the more quickly it will cook and the more evenly heated will be.
When you are choosing a model be sure to verify the size of your cabinet's opening as well as the electrical outlet prior to making any purchase. Installing your microwave may require a professional to ensure its proper functioning and to ensure that it is in compliance with local electrical codes.
Before beginning any installation, ensure the power supply is turned off at the junction box and remove the cover if necessary. Connect the cable from your junction box to the new microwave by using an approved UL-listed or CSA-approved half-inch diameter conduit. Use screws to tighten and secure the conduit.
When the installation is complete the kitchen will appear refined and sleek. This will allow counter space to perform other tasks. To achieve a uniform appearance, choose the stainless steel microwave that matches other Whirlpool(r) appliances to create a seamless kitchen design. You can also include a built in wall oven microwave combination that combines the features of both an oven that is large and microwave into a single appliance.
Controls
The controls on a built-in microwave can help you set meal timers, defrost food items and cook a variety of different meals. It is essential to select a model with the features that you most often use. For instance, if often cook pizza or frozen dinners in the microwave, look for a model that has pre-programmed settings. Sensor cooking which adjusts the power level automatically based upon the type of food is another option for controlling. Defrost setting can help to defrost frozen food in a fraction of the time.
Countertop microwaves, also called freestanding microwaves are a good choice for many kitchens Built-in models are thought to be more sleek and sophisticated. Installed into a cabinet, or the wall, they free up counter space while presenting a seamless look. Built-in microwaves are usually available in a variety of finishes, like black, white, and stainless steel. Some have a Flush Built In Design which allows them to be inserted flush into standard cabinet depths.
Most microwaves with built-in appliances have a door which can be closed and opened to reveal the microwave. Some hinged, while others slide out or open like drawers. You can also find models with a right-to-left swing-out or drop-down doors, which permit you to open the microwave in the direction you prefer and position. In contrast to countertop microwaves, built-in models require ventilation to ensure the air is circulated properly. Installation for these types of microwaves is usually more complicated and should be done by a professional to ensure adequate ventilation and security. Based on the model and the installation type, microwaves with built-in microwaves might cost more than freestanding options.
Safety
It is essential to ensure the stability of your microwave as it is a major kitchen appliance. This helps to avoid damage and accidents, as well as ensuring an organized and functional kitchen. Use brackets and screws to fix your microwave to the shelf. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging or loosening your microwave.
If you prefer an appearance that is more sleek, install your microwave in a lower or upper cabinet. This will conceal the wiring and cords, and is more secure as it lowers the chance of spilling food or other liquids. For an even more built-in look, you can use an appliance trim kit to fill in the space between the microwave and cabinet.
Another method to hide your microwave is to put it in an area of recessed or niche on the wall. This is the ideal solution for smaller spaces and will help make space for counter space. But, it is important to keep in mind that this arrangement will require a professional installation, which will come at the cost of.
Finally, you can also place your microwave in the corner of a kitchen. This is an ideal solution for small spaces, but it is important to remember that this arrangement requires you to bend or squat to reach the microwave.
It is important to clean your microwave frequently and the area around it to remove any dirt. This includes the flammable substances. Check the electrical wires and power cords of your microwave regularly to ensure they are in good working order. If you find signs of wear, you should contact a professional to repair or replace the microwave.