Built-In Microwave Ovens

What is a Built-In Microwave Oven?

A built-in microwave oven is a kitchen appliance that is designed to be installed directly into the cabinetry or wall of your kitchen, making it an integrated part of your cooking space. Unlike countertop microwaves, which take up valuable counter space, built-in microwaves are streamlined, out-of-sight, and provide a clean, modern look to your kitchen. These ovens are available in various styles, sizes, and features to suit different cooking needs and kitchen layouts.

The key advantage of built-in microwaves is their space-saving design, which helps eliminate clutter in the kitchen while offering the same fast cooking and reheating capabilities as traditional microwaves. Additionally, built-in microwaves are often more powerful, offering advanced features that make them more versatile for cooking and baking.

Why Choose a Built-In Microwave Oven?

1. Space-Saving Design

One of the primary reasons homeowners opt for built-in microwave ovens is the need to conserve counter space. Kitchen countertops can quickly become cluttered with appliances, utensils, and gadgets, making it difficult to keep your kitchen organized. A built-in microwave is installed directly into your kitchen cabinetry, either at eye level or below, freeing up valuable counter space for food prep, cooking, or simply enjoying your kitchen.

This space-saving design is particularly advantageous for smaller kitchens or for those looking to create a clean, uncluttered cooking environment. By integrating your microwave seamlessly into the layout of your kitchen, you can achieve a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing look.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Built-in microwave ovens offer a modern and sophisticated look that complements contemporary kitchen designs. With their clean lines, sleek finishes, and seamless integration into cabinetry, built-in microwaves are visually appealing and contribute to the overall style of the kitchen. Whether you have a modern, minimalist, or traditional kitchen, a built-in microwave adds a touch of elegance and helps create a polished, professional appearance.

Many built-in microwaves are available in stainless steel, black, or custom panel options, allowing you to match the microwave to your existing appliances for a cohesive, high-end look. The built-in design eliminates bulky, unsightly countertop microwaves, making your kitchen appear more spacious and organized.

3. Increased Property Value

Incorporating built-in appliances, including microwave ovens, can enhance the value of your home. Modern, sleek kitchen appliances are often seen as a desirable feature by potential buyers, and having a built-in microwave can make your kitchen look more sophisticated and up-to-date. Whether you're looking to sell your home in the future or simply want to improve its overall appeal, installing a built-in microwave is an investment that can increase your property’s value.

4. Advanced Features and Performance

Built-in microwave ovens tend to offer more advanced features compared to countertop models, making them more versatile for cooking and reheating. For example, many built-in microwaves come with additional cooking modes such as convection cooking, grilling, and browning, which allow you to bake, roast, or crisp foods just like a traditional oven. This multi-functionality makes a built-in microwave a great option for homeowners who want the convenience of a microwave but also need more cooking flexibility.

Some built-in microwaves come with sensors that automatically adjust the cooking time and power level for optimal results, ensuring that your food is cooked perfectly every time. Other features may include touchless operation, smart technology integration, and energy-efficient settings, further enhancing the microwave’s performance and convenience.

5. Better Integration with Your Kitchen Layout

Built-in microwave ovens are designed to blend seamlessly with the overall layout of your kitchen. They can be placed in cabinets, under countertops, or even at eye level, depending on your preference and the available space. This flexibility allows you to design your kitchen in a way that works best for your needs and cooking habits.

For example, placing the microwave at eye level makes it easier to access, especially for individuals with limited mobility. You can also integrate the microwave into a custom kitchen island or wall unit, creating a unified, cohesive look throughout the space. Built-in microwaves are customizable to your specific layout, providing a truly tailored solution for your kitchen.

Types of Built-In Microwave Ovens

There are several different types of built-in microwave ovens to choose from, depending on your kitchen layout, available space, and personal preferences. Let’s take a look at the most common types:

1. Over-the-Range Built-In Microwave Ovens

Over-the-range built-in microwaves are designed to be installed above your cooktop or range, functioning as both a microwave and a range hood. These models typically feature a built-in ventilation system that helps remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors from your kitchen while you cook. This dual-function design helps save space by combining two essential appliances in one unit.

Over-the-range microwaves are a great option for kitchens with limited countertop space or for those looking to maximize their cooking area. They offer easy access to the microwave while also ensuring that your kitchen stays ventilated and free of cooking odors.

2. Under-Cabinet Built-In Microwave Ovens

Under-cabinet built-in microwave ovens are installed below your kitchen cabinets, usually at counter height. This installation option is perfect for smaller kitchens or when you want to keep your microwave easily accessible without occupying valuable countertop space. Under-cabinet microwaves come in various sizes and designs, with some offering additional features such as drawer-style openings for added convenience.

This style of built-in microwave offers a discreet solution that integrates well with the rest of your kitchen’s cabinetry, giving it a neat and polished look.

3. Wall-Mounted Built-In Microwave Ovens

Wall-mounted built-in microwave ovens are installed directly into the wall, often at eye level for ease of use. This installation method ensures that your microwave is both out of the way and easy to access. Wall-mounted models are ideal for kitchens with ample wall space and provide a more traditional, elevated appearance.

Wall-mounted microwaves are often larger and can feature advanced cooking functions, including convection cooking, and may even come with double ovens or extra storage space for added functionality.

4. Drawer-Style Built-In Microwave Ovens

Drawer-style built-in microwaves offer a unique and innovative design that allows you to open the microwave like a drawer rather than a traditional door. This style provides easy access, especially for those who may struggle with bending down or reaching for a door. Drawer microwaves are ideal for under-counter installations and offer a sleek, modern look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry.

Drawer-style microwaves also tend to be very spacious, offering more interior capacity than traditional microwave ovens. This feature makes them perfect for reheating large dishes or cooking family-sized meals.

Key Features to Look for in Built-In Microwave Ovens

When choosing a built-in microwave, there are several important features to consider to ensure you select the best option for your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

1. Power and Wattage

The power of a microwave is measured in watts, and the higher the wattage, the faster and more efficiently the microwave will cook food. A microwave with at least 900 watts of power is typically considered sufficient for most cooking tasks. However, if you do a lot of heavy cooking or need faster results, look for a microwave with 1,000 watts or more.

2. Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the microwave will determine how much food it can hold at one time. A larger capacity microwave is ideal for families or for those who frequently cook large meals. Be sure to choose a size that suits your household’s needs and the available space in your kitchen.

3. Sensor Cooking Technology

Many modern built-in microwaves come equipped with sensor cooking technology, which automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level based on the food’s moisture content. This feature ensures that your food is cooked evenly and prevents overcooking or undercooking.

4. Convection Cooking

Some built-in microwaves offer convection cooking, which combines microwave power with hot air to bake, roast, or brown food. This feature is perfect for those who want the convenience of a microwave but also need the capabilities of an oven for more complex cooking tasks.

5. Easy-to-Use Controls

Look for a built-in microwave that has user-friendly controls, such as touchpads or digital displays, that make it easy to select cooking modes, set timers, and adjust power levels. Some models even feature smart technology, allowing you to control the microwave from your smartphone or smart home system.