Benefits of a built in microwave over oven (try these out)

A microwave oven with built-in microwaves lets you cook and heat your food quickly and efficiently. GE offers a wide range of designs, cooking technology and control options to fit your kitchen.

Countertop microwaves sit on the counter and plug into an outlet and built-in models are placed in a wall with a recess or among cabinets for an elegant, integrated look. These models require professional installation.

Space Saver

The microwave is a common appliance in the kitchen, however it can also occupy valuable countertop space. You can make use of counter space by moving the microwave to a different space, such as an island in your kitchen.

Over-the-range microwaves (OTRs) are a popular option. This model, which is neatly tucked behind your stove can be extremely useful in kitchens with a little space. Certain OTR models can also be used as an air vent for your cooktop. This can help reduce the amount of steam that builds up.

Another way to save space is to install a microwave with a built-in design which blends seamlessly into the cabinetry. This gives you an elegant, seamless appearance that can be matched to your kitchen fixtures and cabinets in finish, color or design. It can also create a cleaner appearance in your kitchen, which is great for homeowners who want an uncluttered and clean look.

Installing a built-in microwave may require an expert installation or kitchen remodel. It is possible depending on the layout of your house, to cut an opening in the wall to accommodate the appliance. However, this will require professional framing and strengthening. Built-in microwaves also require adequate ventilation to prevent overheating or damaging the appliance. According to Sam Cipiti, vice president of R. M. Tunis Kitchens and Baths in Chevy Chase, Maryland, the minimum cabinet depth for a built-in microwave in built is approximately 15 inches, however certain manufacturers offer trim kits that provide up to 1 1/2 inches of additional space to let air circulate.

A drawer-style microwave can be set up under the counter or in an island. This configuration is easy-to-access, suitable for everyone and requires less counter space. It can also help avoid hot dishes or containers from falling off the edge of the microwave or being knocked over.

The design of the door is a final consideration when selecting a microwave that is space-saving. A lot of brands have doors that can be opened in the same manner as other kitchen appliances, like dropping-down or slide-out. This lets you integrate your microwave seamlessly into your cooking process. Some models feature a sleek and smooth exterior that wards off fingerprints for an attractive, cleaner appearance.

Convenience

A built-in micrcide that you prefer something different.

If you put your microwave above your range, you'll need an extra kitchen space to accommodate the ventilation system that is required by this configuration. You'll need an option for ducting that directs smoke out to the outside or a ventilation system that recirculates air through the microwave and into the house. For smaller kitchens, consider an additional built-in microwave which can be fitted in a cabinet, wall or island.

Convenient Controls

Microwave ovens are equipped with a variety of convenient controls according to the model you choose. Some features include turntables presets like defrosting or reheating, as well as buttons for a maximum of 30 seconds. Certain models come with child safety features to prevent accidental use of the appliance.

Many microwaves also come with pre-made recipes and cooking times that make the process of making meals faster and easier. This feature is beneficial for cooks who are new to cooking and uncertain of the proper time to cook specific food items or who are unfamiliar with the cooking techniques used in different cuisines.

KitchenAid offers a variety of built-in microwaves as well as over-the-range microwaves that can be matched to your other appliances with design and finish to create an elegant look. Choose from stainless steel built in microwave 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.

Built-in microwaves, in contrast to countertop models, are set in a fixed space of your kitchen cabinets or walls for an elegant and unique look. They typically have the same internal components as countertop models, with a few exceptions. These models are available in a variety of sizes, and some are designed to be able to fit in small spaces. Their exteriors could have a door which opens in a swing-out from right to left or drop-down design.

Certain microwaves over the range like those from Whirlpool(r) are able to double as vent hoods for your kitchen stove and use a built-in exhaust system to vent fumes outside and recycle air. Some microwaves have charcoal filters that get rid of odors and moisture in your kitchen.

Countertop models are positioned on the kitchen counter. They don't need venting or special installation. This makes them a good choice for those who rent their homes or stay clear of costly modifications to their kitchens. Some models include trim kits that can be used to bridge the gap between a 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 when compared to other cooking methods. They also use less energy than conventional stovetop ovens due to the fact that they focus the microwaves' energy on the liquid inside, rather than on heating the air or other elements around it. They can also heat dishes faster than conventional ovens. They can be put in in the lower or upper cabinets, and are available in modern or retro styles to match any kitchen.

In this supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking ("SNOPR"), the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (DOE) proposes new or amended 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 evaluate on a regular basis whether stricter standards are technologically feasible and economically viable and if they can result in significant energy saving.

This SNOPR contains DOE's analyses and results to assess the impact of new or amended energy standards for microwave ovens on consumers. The analysis includes a market and technology assessment, a screening analysis of engineering analysis, and a national impacts analysis.

The energy usage analysis calculates the annual average microwave in built ovens operating hours for the sample of households. It is the basis for the energy savings assessments as well as the other consumer analyses in this SNOPR. The analysis is based on RECS field data gathered from various regions. It also considers different microwave and oven built in combo oven usage patterns in different households, as well as regional variations in electricity prices.

To assess the impact of potential changes or new standards on the cost of operating a household, DOE conducted LCC and Built in Microwave Over Oven PBP analyses to estimate the lifetime cost of purchasing and using microwave ovens at various efficiency levels. The LCC and PBP calculations are made using a computer model that uses the Monte Carlo simulation to incorporate uncertainty and variability into the analyses.

This SNOPR includes an assessment of the impact of amended or new standards on the national scale based on the NIA spreadsheet. The NIA model calculates the industry's net present value ("INPV") in terms of energy savings resulting from possible new or amended standards in terms of energy savings at the site and FFC energy savings.