Built-in microwaves offer a sleek and stylish upgrade to your kitchen. Beyond the aesthetics, they boast features and functionality that can transform your cooking experience. From countertop space savings to innovative cooking technology, let's explore the benefits of incorporating a built-in microwave into your kitchen.

What are Built In Microwaves?

Unlike countertop microwaves, built-in microwaves are seamlessly installed within your cabinetry, creating an integrated look in your kitchen. This frees up valuable counter space, making them ideal for maximizing functionality in smaller kitchens or creating a less cluttered aesthetic in any kitchen size.

Built-in microwaves come in various sizes and styles to fit your needs. They typically offer similar functionalities as countertop models, including reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. However, many built-in microwaves boast additional features like:

  • Sensor cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food's temperature and humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals.
  • Convection cooking: Combines microwaves with hot air circulation for faster and crispier cooking results.
  • Grill settings: Allow you to brown and crisp food, similar to a grill.
  • Larger capacity: Compared to countertop models, built-in microwaves often offer more space to accommodate larger dishes.

Advantages of Having a Built-In Microwave in Your Kitchen

While the decision depends on your needs and preferences, built-in microwaves offer several compelling advantages:

  • Space Optimization: Countertop real estate is precious, and built-in microwaves free up valuable counter space, making your kitchen feel less cluttered and more spacious. This is especially beneficial in smaller kitchens where every inch counts.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: Built-in microwaves seamlessly integrate with your cabinetry, creating a clean and polished look. They contribute to a more streamlined and modern kitchen design, potentially increasing your home's value.
  • Increased Functionality: Many built-in models offer advanced features like sensor cooking, convection capabilities, and grill settings, expanding your culinary options beyond basic reheating and defrosting.
  • Improved Ergonomics: Built-in microwaves can be installed at an ergonomic height, eliminating the need to bend down to reach your food, making them more comfortable and accessible for users of all heights.
  • Potential Safety Benefits: By installing your microwave off the counter, you may reduce the risk of accidental spills or burns, especially if you have young children in your home.

Features to Consider When Buying a Built-in Microwave

With the decision to upgrade to a built-in microwave made, the next step is choosing the perfect model for your kitchen. Here are some key features to consider:

1. Size and Capacity

  • Measure your available cabinet space: Ensure the chosen microwave's dimensions comfortably fit the designated installation area.
  • Consider your cooking needs: If you frequently cook large meals or use oversized dishes, opt for a larger capacity model.

2. Power and Functionality

  • Power level: Higher wattage generally translates to faster cooking times. Choose a power level that aligns with your typical cooking habits.
  • Features: Decide on the functionalities you desire, such as sensor cooking, convection oven capabilities, grill settings, or steam cooking.

3. Control Panel

  • Look for user-friendly controls: Look for a clear and intuitive control panel with features like easy-to-read displays and accessible knobs or buttons.

4. Venting Options

  • Over-the-range microwaves come equipped with vents to remove smoke and odors from your kitchen. Consider this option if you plan to use your microwave for tasks like grilling or steaming.
  • Recirculating microwaves are suitable for situations where venting to the outside is not possible. These models filter and recirculate the air within the kitchen.

5. Aesthetics

  • Match your existing appliances: Choose a finish (stainless steel, black, white, etc.) that complements your other kitchen appliances for a cohesive look.
  • Consider style: Decide if you prefer a traditional or modern aesthetic to ensure the microwave seamlessly blends with your kitchen style.

Learn More: See Our Guide on Microwaves for Kitchens

Installation Process of Built-In Microwaves

Proper installation is key to ensuring your new built-in microwave functions safely and effectively. The installation process involves assessing the location, actual unit installation, ducting and ventilation, and testing operation.

Choosing the Perfect Spot

When selecting an installation location for a built-in microwave oven, ideal placement should meet functionality and aesthetic preferences. Consider the following:

  • Proximity to an outlet: Ensure the cord reaches safely.
  • Ventilation needs: Make sure the room has proper ventilation, which may include roof or wall ducting.
  • Accessibility for users of all heights.
  • Traffic flow, allowing opening/closing the door with ease.
  • Ideal clearance from heat sources like ovens.
  • Balance on wall: Evenly space it from other appliances and edges.

Understanding the Installation Procedures

Built-in microwave installation involves several steps:

  • Prepare the opening and location per exact unit dimensions and manufacturer instructions.
  • Install mounting hardware securely into wall studs or cabinetry floor.
  • Insert unit into opening and attach to mounting brackets.
  • Complete electrical connections per local codes.
  • Attach ductwork from the unit vent to the outside venting source.
  • Use a trim kit to seal edges neatly to surface.
  • Test microwave functions once installed prior to finishing surfaces.

Professional installation is usually recommended. However, if you have experience installing this type of appliance, you may be able to DIY the process.

Safety Measures to Consider

As microwave ovens involve electricity, convection heat, and ventilation, several key safety considerations apply when installing a built-in model:

  • Microwave openings require specified clearance distances from heat sources like ovens.
  • Secure the unit safely into solid wall studs or cabinet floors to hold excessive weight.
  • Use short, secure electrical and ductwork connections.
  • Do not operate until fully installed, including a functioning venting system.
  • Check for microwave leaks after installation using approved testing measures.
  • Keep all packaging, manuals and parts aside until the unit passes testing.

Maintaining and Caring for Your Built-In Microwave

Caring for your new built-in microwave is important to keep it looking great and functioning properly. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintenance:

Cleaning Tips for Your Built-In Microwave

  • Wipe down the interior after each use with a soft microwavable cloth and warm water. This prevents food splatters from getting crusty and difficult to remove.
  • Once a week, give your microwave a deeper clean. Mix a solution of baking soda and water and microwave for 5 minutes. This loosens dried-on residue. Wipe the interior thoroughly after.
  • Clean the glass turntable and the bottom surface regularly, as this is where most spills accumulate.
  • Use a stainless steel cleaner weekly on exterior surfaces to restore shine and prevent corrosion.
  • Don't use abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaners, which can damage interior and exterior surfaces.

Keeping your built-in microwave clean takes just a few minutes each week and helps it last.

Troubleshooting Common Microwave Problems

  • If the microwave won't start, first check that the door is properly closed and the power supply is on. Reset any tripped circuit breakers if needed.
  • If the turntable is not moving, inspect the center hub and support rollers for built-up dirt. Clean thoroughly to get a rotation going again.
  • For unusual noises, check for foreign objects that may have fallen inside, like utensils. Also, inspect mounting hardware.
  • If food is not heating properly, test microwave power with a microwave-safe container filled with water. If it doesn't boil in 1-2 minutes, call for service.

Getting repairs quickly preserves your warranty and prevents unsafe conditions in faulty units. Keep your owner’s manual handy as it contains microwave troubleshooting checklists.

Replacing Your Built-In Microwave

Built-in microwaves typically last between 8-13 years with proper care and maintenance. Consider replacing your unit when:

  • It is no longer heating food efficiently despite troubleshooting efforts.
  • The door does not properly close or seal shut.
  • There are visible signs of wear, like cracks, rust, or frayed power cords.
  • Buttons and controls fail frequently.
  • Interior fan, lights, and turntable motors fail.

Upgrading an aging microwave to a new model with improved capacity and features can renew the convenience and enjoyment of your kitchen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are built-in microwaves a good idea?

Built-in microwaves can be a great idea for many kitchens as they save countertop space and can contribute to a streamlined and integrated look within your kitchen design. They are especially suitable for modern, minimalistic, or smaller kitchens where space optimization is key.

However, they tend to be more expensive than their countertop counterparts, both in terms of initial purchase price and installation costs, so it's important to weigh these factors against the aesthetic and space-saving benefits.

What is the disadvantage of built-in microwaves?

One of the primary disadvantages of built-in microwaves is their high installation cost compared to countertop models. Not only do they usually require professional installation, but they also may need custom cabinetry or modifications to existing kitchen designs to accommodate their specific dimensions and ventilation requirements.

Are built-in microwaves a standard size?

Built-in microwaves do not come in a standard size, but they are commonly designed to fit within standard cabinet dimensions. The width of built-in microwaves typically ranges from 24 inches to 30 inches to align with standard cabinet widths, while the height and depth can vary. It's important to check product dimensions and installation requirements before purchasing a built-in microwave to ensure it will fit in your designated space.