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How Do I Choose the Best Built-In Microwave?
A built-in microwave adds convenience to the kitchen. Choose between standard and convection models while ensuring the capacity is sufficient for the kitchen’s needs. Other tips for choosing the best built-in microwave include selecting a model with a high wattage and a turntable. Pick a design that blends in best with the kitchen, and only purchase a product that is within the household budget and comes with the specific features desired.
When choosing a built-in microwave, consider its function. A standard microwave can only cook specific pre-made meals and heat food. A convection microwave combines the features of a microwave and a convection oven. This means it is possible to grill, cook, and microwave.
A built-in microwave choice also depends on its capacity. Built-in models tend to be larger than compact ones with the medium sized variety the most common. Larger microwaves prepare meals such as roast chicken and turkey and have an increased number of "auto-cook" options.
The higher the wattage of a built-in microwave, the quicker it will cook. It should be noted that the power rating specified on the product by its manufacturer is its absolute maximum power. The best microwaves allow users to cook with several different power settings.
It is best to choose a built-in microwave with an attached turntable. Attempting to buy this important component separately could prove problematic. It is far too easy to order the wrong sized plate. Microwaves lacking turntables do not operate as efficiently because the food will only be penetrated to a certain level by the heating waves.
As there are dozens of different built-in microwave designs, choose one that best suits the kitchen’s decor. Try and match it with the other appliances in the kitchen in terms of color and style. As a built-in model has an exhaust fan, it is also necessary to ensure the kitchen has enough room to accommodate it.
Since built-in microwaves can be expensive, only purchase one that offers needed options. There should be features such as child lock, defrost, auto program, and a removable rack, Search for models that are easy to clean and do not scratch easily either internally or externally.
A final consideration for a built-in microwave is budget. Built-in models are more expensive than their countertop rivals to begin with. Make sure to have a budget and stick with it. Do not be tempted by models with fancy features that may never be used.
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![A roast chicken made in a large built-in microwave.]()
By: ViktorA roast chicken made in a large built-in microwave. -
![A standard microwave will only be able to heat food and cook pre-made meals.]()
By: trekandphotoA standard microwave will only be able to heat food and cook pre-made meals. -
![A combination microwave convection oven functions as an oven and a microwave.]()
By: Evgeny KorshenkovA combination microwave convection oven functions as an oven and a microwave.
Discussion Comments
@ZipLine-- If you get a well know brand, more then likely, you will be fine. I have a Sharp built-in microwave. My sister has a Panasonic one and my neighbor, a Kitchenaid. They all work perfectly fine.
I do recommend a convection microwave or a combination microwave though.
@ZipLine-- Built in microwave ovens seem to be a hit or miss. I know people who have been using theirs for twenty years without any problems. I also know people who had to change theirs after just four years.
It's a good idea to read reviews before investing in a built-in microwave. It's also a good idea to not get one that's ridiculously expensive in case that it does not last as long as expected.
My solution to this problem has been to get a countertop microwave and place it in my custom made cabinets like it's built-in. The cabinets slide over so if the microwave does break, I can easily replace it. If you're in the process of getting custom made cabinets done, I highly recommend doing this.
When I bought it, all that I cared about my built-in microwave was its dimensions and the color. I just wanted it to fit perfectly and match my kitchen. I wish I had put more thought into it because after three years, the microwave is broken. It costs a lot to get it fixed and new ones cost a lot as well. I wish I had gotten something that would have lasted longer.
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