Built In Microwave Oven: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Benefits of a Built in Microwave Oven

Installing a microwave built-in into your cabinets creates an attractive look without the need for a total kitchen remodel. These units come in various styles of installation to match your cabinet space.

A lot of microwaves built-in come with a variety of control options with shortcut buttons that have been programmed for the most common food items. They also have a metal box to stop harmful microwaves from getting into.

Size

Microwaves are a staple appliance in any kitchen and come in various dimensions and styles to meet your space and needs. The main decision is whether to choose a countertop or freestanding microwave.

Both have their advantages However, there are important differences between the two models to be aware of. The biggest difference is that a built in microwave requires a professional installation to be fitted which will come at an additional cost. This also means that it's more difficult to move or replace if you ever decide you need to change your microwave.

Freestanding models give you more flexibility in deciding where to place your microwave. This is especially useful when you have small kitchens or limited wall space to install your microwave in.

Built-in microwaves can be placed in your cabinetry or under your counter for a sleek, integrated appearance. They can free up space on your counter and let you cook at eye-level which speeds up the cooking process.

When choosing a built-in microwave, you should consider the size, power and design. A microwave with higher wattage will cook food faster and more evenly. Microwaves that have a lower wattage are less efficient in heating food. You should avoid purchasing a model with less than 800 watts in order to avoid burning or undercooking your food.

It is also important to check the dimensions of your cabinet to ensure that a built-in microwave will fit. Choose a compact countertop microwave that fits into a recessed space or a larger model that can fit into a hole already in your cabinetry. Some built-in microwaves can also be transformed into a stand-alone model using an optional kit. However, this might not be the best option for your kitchen as it will require venting and may be difficult to remove or replace later on down the line.

Convenience

A microwave that is built-in is a great kitchen appliance for those who want to eliminate the clutter and hassle of a separate appliance. It can be easily integrated into your kitchen design to give it a more sophisticated appearance and elevate the aesthetics of your area. It can also be positioned at eye level to make it easier to reach and use, eliminating the need to bend over or lean over. Additionally, a built in microwave can be placed under the counter or inside cabinets to help save even more space on your countertop.

Microwaves come in various sizes, styles and colors. There are also models that are designed to complement the other appliances in your kitchen and give you a cohesive look that matches your kitchen style. Modern microwaves are equipped with numerous control options that allow you to cook your food with just a few clicks.

A microwave with a built-in oven is not just practical, but it can also free up space on your counter. This is a great option if you have limited space for counter space or workspace. There are models that can be mounted on the wall or under-the counter and you can select different door options. Some microwaves, for example come with doors that swings out from left to right. Some models have a drop-down doors that opens as the drawer.

You can select the power level of your microwave according to your cooking needs. If you're only using it to reheat foods it is possible to go with a lower-powered model. However, if you plan on grilling or baking, you should opt for a model with more power.

Aside from being convenient having a built-in microwave is also a great investment for those contemplating a kitchen remodel or have a new kitchen being fitted. Unlike countertop microwaves, which can be purchased from any retailer however, a built-in microwave needs to be installed professionally by a licensed technician, adding to the upfront cost.

Design

Built-in microwaves provide seamless design in your kitchen and allow them to blend seamlessly into the cabinets. They're becoming more popular as an alternative to a freestanding microwave, particularly because they allow you to make space for counter space and create a custom design that connects the cabinets and appliances. They're available in a range of styles to complement your home and kitchen aesthetics and include black, white or stainless steel finishes. Some models come with an installation that is flush and in a flush with the standard dimensions of the cabinet, ensuring that they fit in seamlessly.

It's important to consider the size, power and features of a built-in microwave to ensure it's compatible with your kitchen. It is also important to consider how often you will use the pre-programmed functions such as defrost settings, and sensors cooking features. Also, you'll need to decide if you prefer a traditional microwave or convection models. Conventional microwaves utilize electromagnetic radiation to cook food while convection models cook with an element of heating and a fan for more efficient results. Some models even come with a broiling feature to brown or crisp foods in the oven. You'll also want to examine the overall design to determine how durable the microwave is.

Safety

Microwave ovens come with many safety features to safeguard both you and the appliance. These include locks for children, automatic shut-off overheating protection, and door interlock systems. They also have ventilation openings to stop overheating and make sure that microwave energy does not escape the oven. The majority of microwaves built-in have a glass door, so you can watch your food items, however it is not recommended you press your face up towards the door when the appliance is in operation.

black integrated microwave oven  of the biggest fears people have is microwave ovens emit radiation that could cause cancer or other health problems. Microwaves emit electromagnetic radiation, but this is not nuclear radiation. John Drengenberg is the Consumer Safety Director for UL and he states that there are very few cases where people have been injured due to microwaves.

Drengenberg says that most of the dangers that microwaves pose are due to the improper use of them rather than the actual radiation. For example it is not advisable to activate the microwave while it is empty since it could damage the magnetron and trigger an explosion. It is essential to follow the instructions in the user manual of the manufacturer and to not attempt to modify or adjust the unit yourself.

Another danger of microwaves is the possibility that they will produce sparks if metal objects are inserted into them. This is because the material that is electrically conductive, acts as an antenna and generates an electric current. The sparks may then reach the inside of the oven, causing an explosion.

You should only microwave glass and ceramic dishes to avoid this. Use only metal cookware which is microwave-safe, like stainless or tin-plated iron.

After each use, clean your microwave because spills can seep in to the seal, allowing microwave energy to escape. You should also check that the latches and hinges on the oven are secure and that there aren't any cracks or other damages to the exterior or internal surfaces of the microwave.