Benefits of a Built in Microwave Over Oven
A built in microwave over oven lets you cook and heat food quickly and efficiently. GE provides a variety of designs, cooking technology and control options that will suit your kitchen.
Countertop microwaves sit on the counter and plug into an outlet, while built-in models are placed in a wall with a recess or among cabinets for a sleek, built-in look. These types of microwaves require professional installation.
Space Saver
The microwave is a popular appliance in the kitchen, however it can also occupy valuable countertop space. There are a variety of clever ways to reclaim counter space by moving your microwave to an alternative location, such as in an island in the kitchen or recessing it into the wall.
One of the most popular options is an over the range (OTR) microwave. Hidden away beneath your stove, this option is particularly useful in smaller kitchens where space is limited. Furthermore some OTR models can double as a vent hood to your cooktop, which is useful in reducing the amount of steam that builds up.
Another option to save space is to install a built-in microwave which blends seamlessly into your cabinetry. This gives you a sleek, integrated appearance that will match your kitchen fixtures and cabinets in terms of color, finish, or style. It can also create a more streamlined look in your kitchen. This is ideal for homeowners who prefer a clean, uncluttered appearance.
Installing a built-in microwave might require a professional installation or a kitchen remodel. Based on the layout of your home, you might be able to cut out a space within walls to accommodate the appliance, however, this requires the proper framing and reinforcement and should be left to the professionals. Built-in microwaves also need adequate ventilation to prevent overheating or damaging the appliance. According to Sam Cipiti of R. M. Tunis Kitchens and Baths, in Chevy Chase, Maryland the minimum cabinet depth of a built-in oven is 15 inches. However some manufacturers offer trim kits with up to 1 1/2 inch of extra space for ventilation.
Another option that can be used to save space is a drawer-style microwave which can be placed under your counter or inside an island. This type of microwave is simple to use and is suitable for all users and requires less countertop space. It also helps prevent hot dishes from falling off the edge or being knocked down.
The door's design is the final factor to consider when selecting a microwave that is space-saving. Many brands offer a door that opens the same way as other kitchen appliances, like a slide-out or drop-down. This allows you to integrate your microwave seamlessly into your cooking workflow. Certain models feature a sleek, smooth exterior that resists finger prints for a cleaner and more attractive appearance.
Convenience
Built-in microwaves that are built into ovens are attractive, convenient and easy to clean. Contrary to countertop models, they're typically placed at eye level to make it easier to access and come with turntables that reduce the need to constantly shift food from plate to plate. Additionally, built-in microwaves often come with options that increase functionality, like EasyConvection oven conversion technology and broiling elements that allow you to crisp or brown foods.
A built-in microwave on top of the oven will save counter space, and can also boost the value of your home by giving it a sleek, luxurious appearance that other appliances might not be able match. It can be placed above your stove or in a separate cabinet, these microwaves seamlessly blend into your kitchen to create an elegant appearance that shows you've invested in your kitchen and home.
Built-in microwaves and ovens are available in various sizes as well as power levels and features that can be adapted to fit any kitchen. They can be placed under your counter in a drawer-style for a more integrated appearance that blends seamlessly into existing cabinets and requires no extra space. These microwaves, with their high-end features and finishes, will enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen and enhance your cooking and entertaining experiences.
While the convenience of a built in microwave over oven is clear however, you should be aware that they aren't as efficient as their freestanding counterparts. Depending on the location you put yours, it might require more space to operate than other types of microwaves. They're also not as mobile, and you aren't able to easily switch the model if you want something different.
If you decide to put your microwave over your range, then you will need a larger space in your kitchen to allow for the ventilation required in this setup. You'll need either an ducting system that sends smoke outside or a recirculating ventilation system that draws air through the microwave before transferring it to the home. For a smaller kitchen think about a separate microwave built-in that can be installed inside the wall, cabinet or island.
Convenient Controls
Microwaves come with a variety of controls depending on the model. lowest price include turntables, preset functions like defrosting and reheating, and 30 second buttons. Some models offer child safety features to prevent accidental operation of the appliance.
Many microwaves come with pre-made recipes and cooking times that make the process of making meals faster and easier. This feature is beneficial for new cooks who don't know how long to cook certain foods or for those who aren't comfortable with the specific cooking techniques that are used in different cuisines.
KitchenAid brand offers a wide selection of built-in and over the-range microwaves that are designed to complement the style and appearance of your other appliances for an aesthetically pleasing kitchen. Select from stainless steel and black finishes that will match any kitchen. These premium microwaves are boldly designed to bring professional-inspired styles into your home, and they're made with high-quality materials for a longer lifespan.
Unlike models that are built into countertops built-in microwaves are fitted inside a fixed area of your kitchen's cabinets or walls for a sleek and custom appearance. They typically use the same components inside as countertop models, but with a few exceptions. They are available in various sizes, including some that are designed to fit in small spaces. Their exteriors may have doors that open in a swing-out style from left to right or drop-down design.
Some over-the-range microwaves like those from Whirlpool(r) are able to double as vent hoods to your kitchen stove. They have a built-in exhaust system to let fumes out and recirculate air. Some models come with a charcoal filter to remove odors and moisture from your kitchen.
Countertop models are placed on the counter in the kitchen. They don't require venting or any special installation. This makes them a good choice for people who rent their homes or avoid expensive modifications to their kitchens. Certain models come with trim kits that can be used to bridge the gap between the microwave and other countertop appliances, such as toaster ovens, coffee makers or bread makers.
Energy Efficiency
Microwaves are more efficient at heating food and water compared to other cooking methods. Discover More consume less power than conventional stovetops because microwaves concentrate their energy on the liquid inside instead of heating the air around it. This means that they can heat food more quickly than conventional ovens. They can be put in your upper or lower cabinets, and are available with retro or modern style to suit any kitchen design.
In this supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking ("SNOPR"), the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (DOE) proposes new or revised energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, which will save consumers money on their operating costs. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) requires DOE to regularly assess whether stricter standards are technologically feasible and economically justifiable and will result in significant energy saving.
This SNOPR provides the analysis and results that DOE conducted to assess the effects on consumers of the new or revised energy conservation standards for microwave ovens. The analysis includes a market and technology assessment screening and engineering analysis and an analysis of the impact on the nation.
The energy usage analysis estimates the average annual microwave oven operating hours in a sample of homes. It forms the basis for the energy savings assessments and the other consumer analyses in this SNOPR. The analysis is made using RECS field data from multiple regions and takes into consideration the different usage patterns of microwave ovens in various households and also the variation in electricity prices across the region.
To assess the impact of changes or new standards on household operating costs, DOE conducted LCC and PBP analyses to determine the lifetime cost of buying and using microwave ovens at different efficiency levels. The LCC and PBP calculations utilize a computer model that is based on Monte Carlo simulations to incorporate uncertainty and variation into the analysis.
In addition to the analysis of energy use and the LCC/PBP, this SNOPR includes an analysis of the national impacts of the new or amended standards using the NIA spreadsheet model. The NIA model calculates the industry net present value (INPV) in terms of energy saving from potential amended or a new standard in terms of savings on energy consumption at the site and FFC savings.
