Benefits of a Built in Microwave Over Oven
A microwave oven that has a built-in microwave allows you to cook and reheat your food quickly and conveniently. GE provides a range of designs, cooking techniques and control options that will fit your kitchen's needs.
Countertop microwaves sit on the counter and plug into outlets and built-in models are placed in a wall with a recess or among cabinets for an elegant, built-in appearance. These models require professional installation.
Space Saver
The microwave is one of the most frequently used appliances in a kitchen however, it can consume valuable counter space. There are many smart ways to free up counter space by moving your microwave to an alternative location, such as in the kitchen island or by recessing it into the wall.
Over-the-range microwaves (OTRs) are an increasingly popular choice. This model is tucked behind your stove, can be particularly useful in small kitchens with limited space. Certain OTR models also double as an exhaust for your cooktop. This can reduce steam buildup.
Installing a microwave integrated into your cabinetry can save you space. This type of appliance offers a sleek, integrated look that is able to match the style, color, or finish of your other kitchen fixtures and cabinets. It can also create a more streamlined look in your kitchen. This is great for homeowners who want an uncluttered, clean appearance.
Installing a built-in Microwave may require a professional installation or a kitchen remodel. Depending on your home's layout it is possible to cut a space into a wall to accommodate the appliance however, this will require the proper framing and reinforcement and should be left to experts. Built-in microwaves require ventilation to avoid overheating and damaging the appliance. According to microwave oven built in combo of R. M. Tunis Kitchens and Baths, in Chevy Chase, Maryland the minimum cabinet depth for an oven with built-ins is 15 inches. However some manufacturers offer trim kits that give up to 1 1/2 inch of extra space for ventilation.
A microwave with a drawer design can be set up beneath your counter or within an island. This configuration is easy-to-access, suitable for all ages and requires less counter space. It can also prevent hot dishes or containers falling off the edge or being thrown down.
A final consideration for the space-saving microwave is the door design. Many brands offer an open, swing-out or slide-out door that opens using the same motion as other kitchen appliances, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your microwave into your cooking process. Some models have a sleek, smooth exterior that resists finger prints for a cleaner and more attractive appearance.
Convenience
A built-in microwave over oven offers an attractive, convenient and easy-to-clean design. In contrast to countertop models they're usually at the eye level for easy access and come with turntables that eliminate the necessity of constantly shifting food from plate to plate. In addition, built in microwaves usually have options that increase functionality, like EasyConvection oven conversion technology and broil elements that allow you to brown or crisp foods.
In addition to saving counter space, a built in microwave over oven can also improve the value of your home as well as appeal by providing a high-end appearance that other appliances might not be in a position to match. It can be placed above your stove or in a separate cabinet these microwaves blend seamlessly into your kitchen for an elegant look that demonstrates you've invested in your kitchen and your home.
Built-in microwaves over ovens are available in a wide range of sizes in terms of power levels, features and models to suit any kitchen configuration. Install them under the counter in drawer style to give an elegant look that is a perfect fit within the cabinets. It doesn't require any additional space. These microwaves, with their premium finishes and high-end functions can enhance the appearance of your kitchen and your cooking and entertaining experiences.
While the benefits of a built-in microwave over oven is clear, keep in mind that they aren't as efficient as their freestanding counterparts. Depending on where you install yours, it may require more space than other microwaves. They're also not as mobile, and you aren't able to easily switch the model if you want something else.
If you decide to place the microwave on top of your range, then you will need a larger space in your kitchen to allow for the ventilation required in this setup. You'll need an option for ducting that directs smoke out to the outside or a recirculating venting system that pulls air from the microwave into the house. For a smaller kitchen think about a separate built-in microwave that can be installed in cabinets, walls or an island.
Convenient Controls
Microwaves have a wide range of controls, based on model. Some of the features include turntables, presets such as defrosting or reheating, as well as buttons for a maximum of 30 seconds. Some models offer child safety features that prevent accidental use of the appliance.
Many microwaves have pre-programmed recipes and cooking times, which makes the process of preparing food quicker and more efficient. This feature is helpful for those who are just beginning to cook and are unsure of how long to heat specific foods or who aren't familiar with the specific cooking methods used in different cuisines.
KitchenAid brand offers a broad selection of built-in and over the-range microwaves that are designed to complement the style and appearance of your other appliances for an integrated look to your kitchen. You can find a selection of stainless steel models and black finishes to match any kitchen design. 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 for countertop use built-in microwaves are inserted in fixed spaces on the kitchen cabinets or walls to give your kitchen a sleek, customized appearance. The internal components are usually similar to regular countertop models with a few exceptions. These models come in different sizes, including some that are designed to fit in small spaces. Their exteriors may have doors that open in a swing-out style from right to left or drop-down design.
Certain microwaves over the range, such as those from Whirlpool(r), even serve as vent hoods for your kitchen stove. They have an exhaust system that is built-in to let fumes out and circulate air. Others have a built-in charcoal filter to remove moisture and odors from your kitchen.
Countertop models can be placed on your kitchen counter and do not require venting hookups or special installation making them an excellent option for rental properties or anyone who wants to avoid costly modifications to their kitchens. Some options also come with trim kits that can close the gap between your microwave and other freestanding countertop appliances, such as coffee pots bread makers, toaster ovens or bread ovens.
Energy Efficiency
Microwaves are more efficient at heating food and water when compared to other cooking methods. They also consume less power than stovetops that are conventional because microwaves focus their energy on the liquid inside, rather than heating the air around it. Because of this, they can cook food more quickly than conventional ovens. They can be placed in your upper or lower cabinets, and are available with retro or contemporary styles to match any kitchen style.
In this notice of proposed rulemaking ("SNOPR") The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (DOE) proposes new or modified energy conservation standards for microwave ovens that will reduce the cost of operating costs. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act ("EPCA") requires DOE to evaluate on a regular basis whether more-stringent standards would be technologically feasible and economically justified, as well as result in significant energy savings.
This SNOPR includes the analyses and findings that DOE performed to evaluate the effects on consumers of the new or revised energy conservation standards for microwave ovens. The analysis includes a technology and market assessment and screening analysis of engineering analysis, and a national impacts analysis.
The energy use analysis estimates the average annual microwave oven' operating hours in the sample of households. This analysis is used to calculate energy savings as well as other consumer analyses within this SNOPR. The analysis is built on RECS field data from a variety of regions, and takes into account the different patterns of usage of microwave ovens across different households and also the variation in electricity prices across the region.
To assess the impact of possible new or amended standards on household operating costs, DOE conducted LCC and PBP analyses to estimate the lifetime cost of buying and using microwave ovens at various efficiency levels. The LCC and PBP calculations are built on an algorithm for computer models that employs a Monte Carlo simulation to incorporate uncertainties and variations into the analysis.
In addition to the energy-use and LCC/PBP analyses, this SNOPR includes an analysis of the national impacts of the new or amended standards that are based on the NIA spreadsheet model. The NIA model calculates the industry's net present value (INPV) in terms of energy saving from the potential amendment or new standard in the form of savings on energy consumption at the site and FFC savings.