Features on the countertop, over-the-range, and built-in microwaves open up your kitchen to endless mealtime options. Some microwaves can prepare a whole meal as quickly as a handbag of snacks. Use our guide for the best microwave oven for your kitchen.
Microwave Oven Options and Styles
Countertop: Countertop microwaves can be purchased in many sizes and provide the same cooking power as installed devices. The downside is that they take up valuable counter space and have no outdoor ventilation system. Some countertop microwaves include trim kits which make it possible to create them into encircling cabinetry or connect these to a nearby wall.
Over-the-Range (OTR): Merging a microwave and range hood, this do-it-all equipment is an excellent choice for keeping space and maximizing function. Get the added capacity for light and venting with these models. Venting power is indicated as cubic feet every minute (CFM). When buying, keep in mind the higher the CFM quantity, the higher the airflow. These microwaves provide the option of venting or inventing, depending on personal choice and positioning. A vented hood sends exhaust outside, while non-vented circulates the environment indoors through a grease-trapping carbon filtration system that must be replaced regularly. Most OTR microwaves are 30 inches wide, although other sizes can be found. Whenever choosing an OTR, you’ll need to determine whether the device will plugin or must be hard-wired.
Low-Profile Over-the-Range (shown): An over-the-range microwave oven is excellent for a few kitchen designs. However, some models don’t fit well into specific range hoods. A low-profile microwave oven was created to install easily in a thinner space without compromising capacity. Some models are vented and can function instead of a variety hood or replace a preexisting over-the-range microwave that’s too low.
Built-In: A genuine built-in microwave becomes an area of the cabinets and usually includes a drop-down door, much like a conventional oven. The mandatory cut kit may or not be incorporated with the stove. If you purchase a cut package separately, make sure it suits your microwave, works with your other appliances for the kitchen, and doesn’t hinder cabinet doorways or drawers.
Drawer Style: This microwave slides out and installs below a countertop or wall structure oven, just as the name suggests. The elevation of the microwave may be considered a safer, far more convenient option for all families.
If you choose a microwave oven within a kitchen remodel, check out appliance suites, which might add a refrigerator, dishwasher, range, and microwave.
Microwave Sizes and Cooking food Capacity
The outside dimensions are critical when installing or replacing an over-the-range or built-in microwave. Full-size countertop products may take up a great deal of countertop space. Check the merchandise details for ovens before purchasing. Enable clearance on all sides as recommended by the product manufacturer.
Capacity identifies the interior kitchen area. This runs from 0.7 cubic ft (ideal for small spaces and food or beverage quick reheating) up to 2 cubic feet or bigger for full cooking capability. Make sure your new microwave will support your cookware.
When measuring for over-the-range ovens, you will need at least 66 ins from the ground to the bottom of the cabinet for quick access. Additionally, you need at least 30 between your cooktop surface and underneath the cupboard.
Microwave Oven Features
Convection: Convection cooking food uses a lover to circulate heat on all edges of the dish, creating delightful, evenly cooked food. Convection microwaves even provide a browning option to simulate the same cooking as a broiler.
Speed Make: Speed food preparation combines convection cooking with microwaving. You’ll receive the results of a typical oven with the velocity of the microwave.
Sensors: Sensors change time and temp as needed and automatically shut down capacity to prevent overcooking. Sensors measure emitted vapor to determine when food reaches optimum temperature.
Everyday Job Buttons/Convenience Settings: Shortcut secrets help you choose the right time and temperature via preset cycles for popular foods and beverages, like popcorn, pizza, and hot drinks. Some shortcuts enable you to add time to the routine without preventing the oven, while other shortcuts include defrost and reheat options. Possibly the most exciting shortcut softens and melts, which makes it perfect for snow cream and chocolates.
Non-stick Interior: Interior coatings make cleanup easy. Wipe plastic material interiors with a wet fabric. Stainless steel interiors are also clean and won’t absorb smells.
Actual Power Decrease: Some microwaves enable absolute power reduction rather than cycling between full power and no power throughout a cook session. The effect is even cooking food and true defrosting without cooked or burnt sides.
Turntables, Trays, and Removable Racks: These organize your cooking food space to warm more simultaneously.
Wattage: Watts signifies the energy of your microwave oven and affects how quickly and evenly food cooks – the bigger the wattage, the faster the food preparation. Ensure that your wiring matches the wattage and amp requirements of the oven you select.