A built in microwave oven is a modern kitchen essential that saves space, adds to your kitchen’s aesthetics, and enhances cooking convenience. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or simply upgrading your old appliance, installing a built in microwave oven properly is key to ensuring its performance, safety, and longevity.
Here, in this blog, we will walk you through it all, planning to post-installation checks. We will also let you know how selecting the best built in microwave can make all the difference.
Understand the Benefits of Integrated Microwaves
Now that we have taken a look at the installation process, let us consider why increasing numbers of homeowners are using a built in microwave oven rather than the conventional countertop model:
- Space-Saving Design: Ideal for compact kitchens or to free up counter space.
- Sleek Appearance: Blends beautifully with cabinetry to give the appearance of luxury.
- Improved Safety: Prevents children from accessing appliances.
- Ergonomic Positioning: Can be installed at eye level for convenience.
Not only do they add elegance to your kitchen’s appearance, but they also make the cooking process easier. Ever had your countertop space jammed up? You will enjoy the open space that a built in microwave oven creates. Current models feature higher-end options, such as sensor cooking, auto-defrost, and pre-programmed menus, which make them much easier to use than past models.
For functionality and design lovers, investing in the best built in microwave will definitely enhance your cooking experience.
Choose the Right Place
The most crucial step in the installation of a built-in microwave oven is determining the best location. Some placement issues are summarized below:
- Accessibility: Place the microwave within easy reach of every family member.
- Ventilation: Proper airflow must surround the unit to prevent overheating.
- Proximity to Power: Your installation point should be in close proximity to an acceptable power source.
- Safety: Never place the unit on a gas cooktop if it is not designed to be used on a gas cooktop.
When purchasing the best built in microwave, pay attention to the manufacturer’s clearance requirements for safe installation.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Accurate measurements are crucial. Take the space where you will be installing the unit and compare it with the product specifications of the built-in microwave oven you intend to buy.
- Height, Width, and Depth: Ensure the cavity will accommodate the unit.
- Cabinet Cut-Out: While retrofitting, the existing cut-out will need to be the same as the new unit or replaced accordingly.
- Trim Kits: They are required in order to develop that in-built look. Make sure it fits your selected model.
A size mismatch is frustrating as well as costly, so there must be accuracy when looking for the best built in microwave.
Determine Electrical Requirements
Your in-unit microwave oven requires its own electrical circuit, typically a 120V outlet. Some models need larger power outputs, so:
- Check voltage and amperage needs.
- Do not use extension cords—they are a fire risk to high-wattage devices.
- Seek to hire an electrician if your current kitchen design lacks the appropriate wiring.
Selecting the most appropriate built in microwave often means choosing a model that will be compatible with your kitchen’s installed electrical systems.
Ventilation Considerations
Ventilation is necessary for performance and safety. Based on your kitchen design and microwave type, you might need:
- External Venting: Best if installed against an outside wall.
- Recirculating Vents: Standard for apartment designs where exit venting is not possible.
- Built-In Exhaust Fans: They come in the majority of over-the-range built in microwave oven designs.
Always follow the manufacturer’s venting recommendations for maximum built-in microwave performance.
Installation Process Overview
Below is a step-by-step, simple-to-understand installation guide for a built-in microwave oven:
- Turn Off Power: Safety first. Turn off the circuit at the breaker.
- Install Trim Kit (if required): Mount the brackets or frame as per instructions.
- Install the Microwave: Carefully put the microwave into the cut-out.
- Secure It: Secure it in place with screws or holding brackets.
- Plug It In: Ensure the plug is firmly placed in the outlet.
- Test the Unit: Run it for a couple of minutes to ensure everything works.
If all this seems daunting, consider hiring a professional, especially for expensive models or complex kitchen designs.
Post-Installation Checks
After installing the built in microwave oven, carry out the following verifications:
- Balance the Unit: Put it on a level surface to avoid wear and tear within.
- Door Alignment: Ensure proper opening and closing of the door.
- Noise Check: Unusual sounds could be loose fittings.
- Function Test: Test various power levels and settings.
Choosing the best built in microwave doesn’t end at purchasing—proper installation ensures it performs optimally for years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a quality product, bad installation can cut performance. Steer clear of these mistakes:
- Forgetting ventilation needs
- With non-recommended mounting kits.
- Positioning near a sink or water source
- Misestimating door swing clearance
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the built-in microwave oven to prevent voiding warranties or damaging the appliance.
Let’s Sum Up
A well-installed built in microwave oven not only gives your kitchen a better appearance, it also elevates the whole cooking experience to a new level. With the best built in microwave, accurate measurements, and adequate ventilation and wiring, you are assured of success.
For the fashion-forward and quality-driven investor, Glen Appliances offers a range of stylish, long-lasting, and energy-efficient built-in microwaves that combine fashionable looks with high performance. Shop their range today and find the perfect solution for your kitchen.