If you’re embarking on a kitchen remodel, you’re probably more concerned with choosing backsplash tile and countertop combinations than thinking about where to put your microwave. But this would be a mistake. While it may be one of the smaller appliances in your kitchen, a microwave is a popular and trusted piece of equipment that can make or break your design. We recommend planning carefully and finding the ideal placement, so it integrates seamlessly into your kitchen design rather than appearing as an afterthought that takes up valuable counter space.
Types of Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens are found in more than 90% of kitchens in America, making them a popular appliance. They are easy to use and can readily heat food and drinks or cook a small meal. They come in various styles, colors, and prices with endless features, so you can easily find the ideal microwave for your lifestyle, budget, and design requirements. The different types include over-the-range, built-in, countertop, and under-counter microwaves.
Over-the-Range Microwaves
An over-the-range microwave is a perfect space-saving option for a small kitchen, as it gets your appliance off the counter and doubles as an oven vent. It sits above your cooktop and provides the benefit of removing steam, smoke, and odors.
Built-In Microwaves
You can place built-in microwaves anywhere around your kitchen. However, most people incorporate them into the upper cabinets. Some styles may protrude out further than the cabinet, so choose your microwave carefully if you want it to sit flush with your cupboards. It’s also a good idea to include an outlet and plug in the cabinet, behind the microwave, which could impact the position on the shelf.
Countertop Microwaves
A countertop microwave is versatile and readily accessible, and you can easily move it to another area of your kitchen or take it with you when you move to a new house. There’s also a wide range of styles and function options, such as convection cooking, which makes them ideal for large kitchens. They also come in various sizes, so a small microwave is perfect when you prefer an affordable option or are willing to sacrifice some counter space. You can also place a countertop microwave into a special nook or shelf in your kitchen.
Under-Counter Microwaves
An under-counter microwave is ideal if you’re designing an open-plan kitchen with a large island or have no upper cabinets. Rather than bending down to insert or remove dishes, a drawer-style option allows you to stir foods without needing to remove the dish.
Things to Consider When Placing a Microwave
While deciding what type of microwave you want may be easy, there are a few other things to consider before installing one in your kitchen.
- You want your microwave to be easily accessible and out of the main traffic flow or entryway.
- You should also ensure enough space around your microwave for ventilation and ease of use, so try keeping it away from a corner or next to a wall.
- If you want your microwave out of the way, you can hide it in a cabinet behind pocket doors. The same consideration goes for placement next to the fridge, as the doors from each appliance can damage the other or get in the way when you want to use the microwave.
Top Rated Brands to Consider
The Jarrell Company provides a wide range of microwave ovens in various sizes, wattage, and colors from premium quality brands you can trust and rely on, including Sharp, LG, Samsung, Danby, KitchenAid, GE Appliances, and more. If you prefer a higher-end microwave, enjoy the automatic settings of the GE Profile with Advantium Technology. You can set your food in the microwave, select the dish on the menu setting, and relax while it cooks your meal up to 70% faster than an oven.
The Jarrell Company Can Help You Find the Right Microwave for Your Kitchen Remodel
Whether you’re upgrading to a new microwave oven or require design assistance to find the perfect placement in your kitchen remodel, our skilled and experienced professionals provide exceptional customer service. Please browse our range of appliances online, visit us in-store, or contact our sales team for more support.
