Choosing a Microwave Oven Builtin
A built-in microwave can be an excellent option if bored of freestanding models that occupy space on your worktop. Built to fit inside cabinets, with a variety of flush installation options available for a seamless look, they keep your kitchen tidy.
Although features such as sensor cooking and pre-programmed settings are beneficial, make sure you choose a model that has features you'll actually use. Also, don't forget the cost of installation, which should be completed by professionals.
Size
When choosing a builtin microwave oven, you must consider the dimensions of your kitchen and cabinet into consideration in order to choose the right model for your space. Microwaves come in standard sizes of 24, 27 and 30 inches. You must also take into consideration the capacity, as it will determine the quantity of food you can cook in a given time.
Cost is another important factor to take into account when choosing the right microwave. Microwaves are available at different price points according to the size, features, and brand you choose. The installation costs should also be considered. Freestanding microwaves are cheaper to purchase and install since they can be put on the counter.
Power
The cooking power of a microwave (wattage), determines how quickly and efficiently your food will be cooked. In general, higher wattages will cook faster, however lower-end models can still satisfy the majority of requirements. We recommend choosing a microwave that has at least 1,000 Watts. Microwaves with lower watts may cook unevenly and take longer to heat food than microwaves with higher wattages.
Refer to the user manual for your microwave or the serial number plate on the inside. You can compare the wattage among different models to select the right one for your requirements.
You can find microwaves that are designed to be placed inside cabinetry or even installed into a wall to give an integrated appearance. Some 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 look.
While a microwave oven builtin provides a seamless appearance, you'll have to pay more for the convenience of this installation option as compared to other kinds of microwaves. It can be more difficult to repair or replace these models when they fail, and you'll have pay for someone to install them in your kitchen. Over-the-range and countertop microwaves aren't required to pay for installation. But, you'll have to ensure that the microwave you select is suitable for the space you're planning to use it. You'll need to measure the space to ensure you can locate an appliance that has the capacity that meets your requirements. The bigger the microwave has to be in order to accommodate dishes, the greater power you will require.
Convection
A microwave oven that has convection technology allows you to brown or bake foods in addition to reheating and defrosting. The microwave oven's fan and heating element combine to circulate hot air around food items in the microwave oven, similar to an oven roaster which enables the appliance cook food more evenly than conventional microwaves.
Microwave radiation is released from the magnetron inside a tiny chamber in the oven, generating microwaves which heat up and cook the food. Microwaves, a non-ionizing electromagnetic wave, haven't been proven to cause cancer through long-term studies conducted on rodents. The microwaves produced by the microwave oven do not present any risk to the safety of anyone. In contrast to conventional ovens that emit high-energy radiation which is capable of burning skin, microwaves are emitted from the oven's door.
Vibrations and the various rates of absorption of energy by food can result in uneven heating in a dish that has been microwaved. These issues can be minimized by stirring the food, or using a a rotating turntable that turns the dish while it cooks.
Some built-in microwaves are designed to fit inside a kitchen cabinet for a seamless appearance and easy access. These models often have trim kits that can be used to close any gaps between the microwave and the cabinet for a seamless finish. Other models are countertop models that can be placed on kitchen counters and plug into the power outlet. A countertop model can be used to replace a countertop oven or can be paired with a microwave for an all-in-one appliance that makes the most of space. Certain countertop models come with an opening drawer that can be opened and closed by pressing the button to make it easier for accessibility.
Controls
A built-in microwave will save you counter space by eliminating the need for an additional appliance. It can be fixed to the wall or incorporated in a cabinet to create an elegant look in your kitchen. Choosing the appropriate size, power and features is crucial to meet your family's cooking needs.
The controls on the built-in microwave may differ in their features, but they generally include an LCD or LED display that can be used to show cooking results and program buttons to choose the cook time you want and a defrost feature. Some models use a sensor that automatically detects and defrosts food at the push of a button. A timer and a key lock will stop any unintentional or accidental operation, while a security lock ensures that the oven will not be run when the door is open.
Some manufacturers also offer models with a touch screen for added convenience, and several have finishes such as stainless steel with PrintShieldTM, which is resistant to fingerprints and smudges. A microwave equipped with dishwasher-safe dishes makes cleaning easier.
Microwave ovens cook food by using electromagnetic waves with very short wavelengths that vibrate molecules directly inside the cooking chamber. The technology was developed after World War II, based on radar technology that was used during the war. The microwave radiation is not Ionizing and is not a health risk if the oven door is shut properly and locked.
integrated microwave oven can be placed in place of a traditional countertop or under-counter model, and it can be integrated into an over-the-range or wall oven. A professional installer can complete the installation for you. It might be necessary to replace a cabinet panel in order to accommodate the new appliance based on your space. A microwave could require ventilation, so you must consider whether your existing cabinetry is able to handle the extra noise and airflow.
Style
Built-in microwaves are a great alternative to traditional countertop microwaves. They are positioned on your counter, and models that are over-the-range sit just above your stove They are incorporated into your cabinetry. This provides them with a more modern appearance. They're available in several installation styles such as flush mounts and slide-out drawers, which allow you to put them at a comfortable height for your family and make an effortless transition into your kitchen. These microwave types also offer higher-end features to give a premium feel.
When weighing your options, it's important to take into consideration how often you utilize the features of a microwave and whether they fit your everyday cooking routine. Defrost and pre-programmed options can simplify meal preparation for families with busy schedules. However, you should determine whether they add convenience or simply replace manual steps.
Certain manufacturers have also played with combination microwave-ranges which combine traditional ovens with microwave capabilities. These units are a good option for families who regularly use microwave and conventional heat sources, but have limited counter space.
Regardless of which type you decide to use, it's important to verify your local codes and regulations before installing the microwave in your home. You may require an installation permit or professional assistance, particularly when ductwork is required. Also, you'll need to ensure that the area where the microwave will be installed has enough ventilation. A venting system will ensure that the appliance is safe, and will reduce the risk of carbon dioxide poisoning.