Can you have a picture of a glass of water in a microwave?

Microwaves are used multiple times a day and are considered a staple in the kitchen. When replacing a current microwave, consumers will most likely choose the same style alre…ady installed. When remodeling a kitchen, there are choices.

Microwaves are sold in four styles: over-the-range (OTR), counter-top, built-in, and drawers. All major appliance manufacturers offer many of these styles in black, white, bisque (almond), and stainless steel finishes. This article will focus on the four styles of microwaves and how they integrate into a kitchen design.

Typically 30 inches wide, OTRs provide all of the popcorn popping uses that are expected of a microwave and they are typically installed above a cooktop or a range. What separates OTRs from other styles of microwaves is that they provide a ventilation component. OTRs can exhaust smoke and cooking odors to the outside through ductwork or recirculate the air through charcoal filters.

Because OTRs install above a cooktop or range, they are easily accessible for adults and older children. The main advantage of OTRs is their dual function as a microwave/hood and the fact that they take up less space in the kitchen as opposed to selecting another style of microwave in addition to purchasing a ventilation hood. Countertop microwaves start at the lowest price point of all microwave styles, but more importantly there are more options in terms of interior capacity.

Large countertop microwaves can have an interior of over 2.2 cubic feet or an extra small interior of 0.5 cubic feet. The larger the interior, the larger the overall size of the unit and this will directly impact how much area it will consume on a countertop. If counter space is at a premium, purchasing a smaller microwave and storing it in a cabinet or closet when not in use will maximize the countertop area.

Many countertop microwaves are in fact built-in microwaves. The key is how this style installs into cabinetry. Most times, but not always, built-in microwaves are installed above a wall oven.

To achieve this look, a shelf is drilled into the cabinetry and the microwave is secured to the shelf. A trim kit, sold as an accessory, installs around the face of the cabinetry framing the front of the microwave in the process. The trim kit increases the overall width of the microwave to match the width of the wall oven.

The benefit of installing a built-in microwave is that they are easily accessible and increase countertop space in the kitchen. Remember that trim kits are sold separately and can cost anywhere from $150 and up depending on the brand. Microwave drawers are sold by only a handful of manufacturers, but they offer the ability to install in an under-counter application like a kitchen island.

While they function exactly like OTRs; countertops; and built-ins, microwave drawers are accessed by reaching down into the unit as opposed to reaching horizontally into a cavity. Microwave drawers provide ample surface area that can accommodate a normal size plate, but they lack height when compared to other styles. A large bowl or extra tall coffee mug will not fit as they are too tall, however, a normal bowl or coffee mug will fit.

If debating a microwave drawer, verify that your microwavable dishware can fit inside. The price points for microwave drawers are higher than OTRs; countertops; and built-ins, but the style and installation options that they offer can quickly outweigh the higher cost. The first countertop microwave was sold by the Amana Corporation in 1967.

If you are replacing an existing microwave, you will most likely choose the style that is currently in use. But if you are redesigning your kitchen, there are a variety of microwave styles that will integrate into your design. Price points can vary greatly from manufacturer and style, but microwaves exist for all budgets.

As always, be sure to double check all measurements and adhere to all installation instructions.