Microwave and Oven Integrated
Microwaves are an excellent addition to any home. They cook food much faster than regular ovens and can save you time by preparing food quickly.
Instead of storing your microwave on the counter, you can integrate it into your kitchen for an elegant style. Built-in microwaves can be found in flush-installed styles, which offer plenty of storage space while ensuring your workspace is free.
Built-in
Built-in microwaves are designed to be integrated in kitchen cabinetry, or fixed to the wall. They provide a modern appearance for your kitchen. They can be fitted with top-of-the-line features that allow you to bake and cook effortlessly. Available in a variety of sizes and power levels, microwaves with built-ins free up space on your counters and are perfect for families with busy schedules.
Installing microwaves built-in at eye level or within reach will allow for easy operation. When putting your microwave in its place it is important to strike the right balance between ergonomics and functional. Make sure you consider the distance you're planning to install your appliance and keep in mind that you might need to alter your posture in order to get comfortable usage.
You can choose from a range of styles and find the ideal match for your kitchen. Some models are available with a flush-built-in design that is flush with the standard cabinet depths, allowing for seamless installation. Other microwaves are constructed with clean and minimalist lines that complement contemporary or traditional kitchen designs.
You can select an oven with a turntable, or removable racks that will assist you in heating and cooking your food evenly. For added convenience there are models with shortcut keys or time cook settings to help you save even more time while cooking.
A new trend in microwaves is the introduction of flatbed technology. Flatbed microwaves feature a flat interior, in contrast to traditional turntables. This allows you to heat up larger dishes more evenly. Additionally, microwaves with flatbeds can be more easily cleaned as there are no crevices or nooks in which food to get stuck in.
Built-in microwaves are often viewed as more difficult to maintain than countertop microwaves. But, with the right knowledge and attention, you can still easily maintain your integrated microwave to keep it looking like new. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer for cleaning and maintenance to prolong the life of your appliance.
Countertop
Countertop models are the most commonly used microwave ovens. They sit on your counter and provide easy, convenient access. These freestanding appliances typically come with a range of power capacities and finishes and color options to match your other kitchen decor. They don't have to be installed or positioned in order to be taken with you if you move.
These kitchen appliances are more than just a gadget to heat frozen coffee or food items. Many models come with advanced features like weight and time defrost settings that maximize the amount of time required to ensure that frozen food is perfectly thawed. They might also have the Keep Warm option that keeps food warm and ready to serve for as long as 60 minutes, making them perfect for entertaining and everyday use.
When it comes time to select a countertop microwave, size can be a major aspect. While the standard kitchen counters have a depth of 25 1/2" The maximum space available for a countertop microwave is 16". This can reduce the amount of space you have available on your kitchen's work surface, and limit your ability to use the space.
Installing a microwave in a drawer is a great idea if you are in a tight spot and need quick access to a microwave, but have limited counter space. This option allows you to save counter space, tuck away the appliance when it's not being used, and have plenty of kitchen storage. This is a great choice for apartments, small dorms and kitchens, or even rec rooms with a limited countertop space.
Installing a built-in microwave is another option to free space on your countertop. Built-in microwaves are more sleek than countertop models that are placed on the counter. They can be built into your wall or cabinetry for an elegant look. This allows you to incorporate your microwave in the overall design of your kitchen making it appear as if it was always part of the design.
Drawer
Microwave drawers provide a sleek modern upgrade to the kitchen, with seamless integration into cabinets that maximizes the kitchen space. These drawers are popular with homeowners who value the convenience and utility while maintaining a clean countertop. Regular maintenance and appropriate usage will prolong the lifespan of this innovative appliance.
Drawer microwaves come in standard cabinet sizes, typically 24 to 30 inches wide, which makes them compatible with many contemporary kitchen layouts without requiring extensive adjustments. Unlike traditional microwave ovens that occupy counter space, these models slide out of the cabinet and open at the touch of a button, leaving your counters open for workspace, decor items, or other tasks.
This type of microwave does not require as much clearance to operate as an over-the counter or built-in appliance. The sliding design also eliminates the necessity for turntables, which saves even more counter space. This allows you to make use of large rectangular casserole dishes or oblong containers which wouldn't fit on traditional turntables.
These appliances are installed at an accessible height and provide a more comfortable ergonomic experience for users of all ages and abilities. They help to make it easier to pick up and place dishes, reducing the possibility of spills and overheating. These units also provide greater visibility into the cooking area, which can reduce frustration during meal preparation.
As with other types of integrated microwaves the decision of whether or not this one is worth the investment is based on your particular situation. If you need additional countertop space, love the ergonomic design and want advanced cooking features such as sensor or convection capabilities A drawer microwave could be a great investment for a modern kitchen. However, if you're satisfied with your countertop or prefer a more minimalist look, this option might not be the best for you.
Over the Range
Over-the-range microwaves are installed above stoves or cooktops to free up counter space and create sleek, built-in style. These kitchen appliances can double duty as range vents and hood vents, which helps remove steam, smoke and cooking odors from the kitchen. They also provide overhead lighting that can help illuminate cooking and meal preparation tasks. Smart over-the-range microwaves can even sync with your LG oven and connect to the ThinQ app to provide a smooth experience.
You can pick from a variety of sizes and styles to complement your kitchen design and integrate with other appliances. A lot of models come with chrome or stainless steel finish to match other countertop appliances like refrigerators, ovens and dishwasher. Some models include charcoal filters to help reduce the odors and fumes. Some models also include a vent that could be switched between exhaust venting and recirculation mode according to the cooking requirements and the kitchen's ventilation configuration.
Another benefit of microwaves with an over-the-range design is that they are much easier to access than countertop models. This is true especially when you are using the microwave to heat or heat frozen food. The act of reaching over a hot cooktop or stove for the microwave on your countertop can be dangerous, especially when you're not cautious.
Over-the-range models also save counter space and can be used to store cookbooks, or other small kitchen appliances. However, they are typically more expensive than countertop models and may require professional installation.
The choice between an over the range and countertop microwave will depend on your kitchen layout, available counter space, and your personal preferences. Both types of microwaves will make your kitchen more efficient. However, microwaves that are over-the-range are more space-saving and have integrated ventilation, which makes for an easier cooking environment.