Category: Home Appliances

A Brief Guide to Buying the Right Dishwasher

These days no kitchen is considered complete without a dishwasher. Fortunately, there are sizes and styles of dishwashers to suit any kitchen layout. Here we will explore how to find the right dishwasher for your kitchen.

Styles and Sizes

The standard size for dishwashers is 24 inches wide, but there are narrower units if you have limited space. If you have less than 34 inches in height, due to new flooring being laid over old flooring or if you have lowered countertops for greater handicap accessibility, you will need to look for a “short tub” style dishwasher.

You can also choose a more streamlined style with a model with hidden controls. Many dishwashers now have the controls integrated into the top of the door rather than on the front of the appliance for a sleek aesthetic. If you want a fully integrated look, you will need to opt for a model with an unfinished door that can accept a custom panel.

Cleaning Power

Basic dishwasher models tend to be equipped with one or two spray arms, but there are many models that offer three or more arms, so the top, bottom, and middle of the tub are covered. The spray arms tend to have a direct water feed, but some appliances have specialized cleaning systems that offer alternate arm action and more concentrated cleaning.

Layout

Traditionally, the silverware basket is located at the front, center of the lower rack, but some manufacturers have increased flexibility and load capacity by offering a longer basket that can be split, removed or relocated. The conventional place setting capacity for a standard 24” dishwasher is 12, but some models can accommodate 15 or 16 place settings due to adjustable racks and additional shelves. This provides more space for cups, longer items, and larger crockery. If you tend to use larger platters or trays frequently, it is a good idea to look for a dishwasher that provides a more flexible load capacity.

Additional Features

Many dishwasher models offer additional features to improve the performance and effectiveness of the appliance. This includes measures such as anti-leak protection to prevent damage to hardwood floors in the event of an internal leak. A sensor in the pan shuts down operation and water is contained in the pan to prevent any external damage.

If you live in a hard water area, you may want to consider a model with an integrated water softener. Hard water causes glassware etching or fogging and can reduce detergent cleaning power. The hard water minerals can also accumulate reducing energy efficiency and leading to break down issues.

Features such as a hard food disposer can be particularly beneficial in a busy kitchen. These models grind up any food particles and flush them from the appliance to avoid the clogs and mess that result from failing to rinse dishes before they are loaded.

If you are concerned about stains or odors, you may prefer a stainless steel interior. Stainless steel is less prone to absorb stains or odors compared to plastic and offers a quicker drying time.

Finally, if you like to keep track of what your appliance is doing, you may like to have an LED electronic control panel. These models tend to show cycle remaining time and other settings, so you can tailor your wash cycle to suit your preferences.

No modern kitchen is complete if you don’t have the right dishwasher, and today, there are a wide variety of appliances to satisfy your unique needs.

If you’re looking for a new dishwasher, you can explore your options with this online collection of dishwasher models or speak to a home appliance expert for a more specialized service.

UMRP Price Increase on Sub-Zero and Wolf Appliances

Sub-Zero Wolf is the largest family owned manufacturer of appliances in the United States. It is also second globally to Miele. Sub Zero is perhaps one of the most iconic appliance brands in the United States, and the company was the first to produce a refrigerator with twin compressors, to keep foods fresher for longer. Sub Zero was also the first brand to use digital temperature controls, electronic air scrubbers, and a vacuum seal to help prevent foods from spoiling. All Sub Zero/ Wolf prices are dictated by UMRP, and this looks set to increase on 1st March 2018.

What is UMRP Pricing?

Approximately 10 years ago, the Supreme Court ruled that manufacturers could set the prices for their products in the marketplace. This was the birth of uniform prices, and you’ll see this when shopping for watches, bedding, and appliances.

Most consumers are unfamiliar with the acronym UMRP and are unaware that it has an influence on their appliance purchases. UMRP stands for Unilateral Minimum Resale Price, and in essence, it allows manufacturers to have stringent pricing guidelines for retailers. This means that Sub-Zero Wolf dictates the minimum pricing for retailers offering their product line. If retailers break these guidelines and offer appliances below the set minimums, they will be dropped from the Sub-Zero Wolf distribution network.

The UMRP policy means that consumers can shop for a Sub-Zero Wolf appliance in LA, Chicago or backwater USA and the price is likely to be almost identical at any of the retailers.

Since retailers can’t compete simply on price, most offer non cash incentives. This means that you’re likely to find retailers offering free delivery, installation, extended warranties or other adds-ons. You may even be offered a discount on other Non-Sub-Zero Wolf appliances if purchased with your new Sub-Zero or Wolf. This means that when you’re appliance shopping, it’s more about what a store can offer in services such as installation, delivery, and aftercare rather than just the lowest prices.

The Sub-Zero Wolf UMRP Increase

On March 1st, 2018, there will be an increase in the UMRP for all Sub-Zero Wolf appliances. Since this price increase comes directly from the manufacturer, all retailers will be forced to also increase prices. This means that you can expect to see the prices of Sub-Zero appliances increasing in the coming days as stores and appliance centers bring their pricing into line with the new UMRP rate.

Fortunately, Universal Appliance Kitchen Center can help to negate this price increase. Although we will comply with the stringent manufacturer pricing guidelines, we don’t simply offer great prices. Our aim is to provide our customers with an immersive purchase experience. We appreciate that buying a new appliance can be daunting, so we aim to make it easier for you. With our knowledgeable staff, superb delivery and installation options, attractive finance deals and unrivaled aftercare, we aim to help you throughout the life cycle of your new Sub-Zero Wolf appliance.

We appreciate that price is an important factor when making a major purchase, but when every retailer is offering similar pricing, you need to look further at the services offered. While you may have a choice of retailers offering Sub-Zero appliances, Universal Appliance Kitchen Center is more than just a store offering premium brands; we offer a complete service to help you to find the right appliance to suit the needs of your family and kitchen. So, allow our experienced team members to guide you through the purchase process and negate any UMRP price increases.

If you’re thinking of upgrading to a brand new Sub-Zero Wolf appliance, you can explore your options with this online collection of appliances or speak to a home appliance expert for a more specialized service.

Simple Solutions to Clean Your Small Appliances

No kitchen is complete without a range of small appliances. These small devices improve the convenience of our kitchens and improve quality of life. Unfortunately, many of these small appliances can be a little tricky to clean, compromising their use. So, here we have some simple solutions to clean your small appliances.

Clogged Coffee Maker

Even the best coffee maker can become clogged with hard water deposits and coffee residue. This can mean that it not only takes longer to brew your cup of Joe, but also leaves it tasting less than fresh. If you want a bright start to your morning with the awaking aroma of a fresh pot of coffee, you need to ensure that this small appliance is crystal clean.

The best way to get rid of any unsightly stains inside your coffee pot is to use a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts of water. Pour this mixture into the reservoir and switch your coffee maker on. The solution will run through the coffee maker, and you’ll need to allow it to cool for approximately 15 minutes. Repeat this process before rinsing by running through fresh water. You should also wash the pot and filter with soapy, warm water. This will not only remove any stubborn coffee stains, but also eliminate hard water mineral accumulation.

Grubby Blender

Whether you need a morning smoothie to get you started or like to make soups and sauces, blenders can easily become stained with leftover particles stuck on the blades and glass. It is a good idea to give your blender a really good clean at least once a month. This will help to remove any stains or particles and freshen up any lingering odors. Fill your blender to the halfway point with warm water, a slice of lemon and a little dishwashing liquid. Set the blender running on a low setting for approximately 30 seconds. Drain the liquid and rinse the blender thoroughly.

Messy Microwaves

Frozen dinners and warming up leftovers can often result in splatters of food stuck to the interior of your microwave. Unless these particles are cleaned immediately, they can easily turn into tough stains that are difficult to remove. This can not only look unappealing, but can also make you reluctant to put food or drinks in your microwave. Fortunately, there are some simple steps to remove all these messy marks and stains. Every six to eight weeks, place a half cup of water, a tablespoon of vanilla extract and two tablespoons of white vinegar into a microwave safe dish or bowl. Microwave this for 30 seconds on high power. Carefully remove the container, being cautious as any remaining liquid will be very hot. You can then wipe down the interior surfaces of the microwave with a damp cloth. You should find that any leftover splatters of food or stains can be easily wiped away and you’ll even be left with a fresh-baked and clean cookie odor.

Although dirty small appliances can be frustrating, it is important to ensure that they are safely cleaned. You should never submerge any small appliance in water and avoid allowing any liquid to come into contact with the motor or power cord. It is always best to err on the side of caution and use these simple steps to ensure that your small appliances are clean and safe.

No kitchen is complete without fully functioning small appliances. If you’re struggling to get your small appliances clean and need to upgrade, there are plenty of models available.

If you’re in the market for a new small appliance, explore the options with this online collection or speak to a home appliance expert for a specialized service.

Why Your Dryer Needs to be a Clutter Free Zone

Most of us find our laundry room end up being a bit of a dumping ground. It is very easy to leave clothing on top of the dryer, but allowing your dryer to become cluttered is a possible safety risk and could be putting your home at risk of a fire.

The Real Possibility of a Fire Hazard

While you may be diligent about emptying your lint trap, leaving clothes on top of the dryer, while you are doing multiple loads of laundry, creates a real risk of fire. If clothes are left while the dryer is running, you can not only compromise the dryer performance, but could be putting your home in danger.

Dryers produce a great deal of heat in order to dry wet clothing. This requires space so that the heat produced can safely escape. When clothing is piled on the dryer, there is a risk that they will fall off the top of the dryer and get wedged behind the appliance. This is likely to block the vents and allow heat to build up. Additionally, since most clothing materials are flammable, there is an even greater chance of an item igniting.

Safer Ways to Store Dried Clothing

If you’re dealing with multiple loads of laundry, it is inevitable that some clothing will need to be stored temporarily until they are folded and put away. Fortunately, there are safer ways to store your dried clothing without putting your laundry room at risk of a fire.
One of the easiest ways to store your dried loads is to use a laundry basket. A laundry basket on the floor near your drier can be used for clothing straight out of the dryer, or provide a place for folded clothes.

If you like to keep everything organized in your laundry room and prefer to fold everything before it is taken to your bedroom, you could set up a table. A table can provide a place to unload the dryer or fold your clothing. If you are limited space, consider a folding table that can be collapsed when you don’t need it.

Another solution is to build a shelf over your appliances. Provided both your dryer and washer are front loading, a shelf extending above the appliances can create space for laundry detergent, cleaning products, and dried clothes. You will need to ensure that there is adequate airflow space, but a shelf will provide a sturdy space to fold and store clothing without risking items blocking the vents.

Clear All the Other Clutter

It is important to bear in mind that clothing is not the only thing that can cause an obstruction and create a fire hazard in your laundry room. If your kids are in the habit of dumping book bags, shoes and other “junk” on top of the dryer, they could be creating a massive problem. So, it is good practice to ensure that your dryer is free of any clutter, particularly before you start using it. It can be a good idea to create additional storage in your laundry room so that any items have their own designated spot rather than being left on top of your dryer. This will ensure that when you do need to do laundry, you don’t need to waste time clearing a mountain of clutter to be sure it’s safe to use your dryer.

Every home has specific requirements for laundry room appliances, and there is a wide range of helpful accessories to complement your room layout.

If you’re looking for new laundry room accessories, explore your options using this online collection or contact a home appliance expert for a more specialized service.

How to Choose the Finish of Your New Appliances

In the past, if you were shopping for a new appliance, the finish was a non-issue. It was very rare to find an appliance finished in anything other than white. These days, there is a massive choice of white, black, stainless steel and even colors. While white is a classic choice, it is important to find your favorite finish to ensure that your kitchen showcases your preferences and style.

When White is the Best Choice

White appliances tend to be less popular in a designer kitchen, they do provide a classic look. There are some situations where a white finish is the best choice such as when the cabinets or countertops are in a pale tone. Pale, neutral tones are complemented by clean, white appliances that allow the subtle undertones to be highlighted. Another case where white is the best choice is when you have a dark ceiling. You can create a cottage appeal with wooden beams on your kitchen ceiling, but this can also weigh down the space. So, you need light walls and white appliances to create a light and breezy aesthetic.

A white finish for your appliances can also be useful if you want to create a mix and match look. A golden range hood can be a statement, but it will be too much to have this tone for all of your appliances. Having your other appliances in a white finish will allow the brass finish to stand out and be showcased.

When You Should Opt for Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has become a popular choice as a finish for appliances in recent years. There are good reasons for this as stainless steel is a neutral shade that can complement almost any color scheme. Although stainless steel is often associated with a higher purchase cost, there are some situations where it is certainly worth spending a little more.

If you have an ultra-modern home, stainless steel is a strong choice. The metallic finish creates a crisp look in a minimalist and glossy kitchen. Stainless steel can also enhance the aesthetics of wood cabinetry. The contrast between metal and wood works beautifully creating a visual break to the organic patterning of the wood.
Stainless steel can also provide a great finish if you want to create a transitional style; halfway between a contemporary and traditional kitchen. This type of decor tends to age very well and allows you to mix neutral colors and different textures.

When the Only Way is Black

Black is not only a neutral color, but it is a dramatic and bold choice. This means that it can be both a safe or risky choice depending on how it is paired with cabinetry or countertops. If you love a dramatic monochrome finish, appliances finished in black can create an instantly artistic look without any trendy colors that could clash next season.
Black appliances can also create a subtle effect when you have very dark cabinets. Dark cabinets can cause the space to appear smaller, particularly if they are broken up with white or stainless steel appliances. A black finish minimizes this effect for a sultry aesthetic.

When You Should Consider Color

Although white, stainless steel and black are considered the most common appliance finishes, there are times when a colored finish could perfectly complete your kitchen aesthetic. If you love that retro diner look, the pastel look of colored appliances with a classic checkerboard floor will be perfect. Alternatively, if you’re looking to create something special in your kitchen design, you can add a splash of character and color with a cheerful fridge or fiery range.

The right appliance finish can complete your kitchen decor, and fortunately there is a massive choice of appliances to suit your personal preferences and complement your kitchen layout.

If you’re looking for new kitchen appliances, you can explore the options with this online collection of home appliances or contact a home appliance expert for a specialized service.

Considerations for Placing Your New Laundry Set

Whether you’re upgrading your existing appliances or planning a new laundry area, the placement of your washer and dryer needs some thought and careful planning. Positioning your new appliances in the wrong spot could create problems for your daily routine, and cause inconvenience and headaches. So, here are some considerations for placing your new laundry set.

Think Space

While your existing washer and dryer may be tucked away in your basement, this may not be the right spot for your new appliances. Many homeowners find lugging loads of dirty laundry from the bedrooms upstairs all the way to the basement to be a real pain. So, it could be worth thinking about other spaces around your home that could provide the ideal location. A favorite spot for a laundry set is just off the kitchen. This can add functionality to your kitchen and prevent it from being cluttered. The kids can drop their knapsacks, jackets, and shoes in a laundry room and prevent those items from making your kitchen look untidy. You will need at least a 5×8 foot area, but larger is often better as you can maximize storage.

Ventilation Requirements

Your new washer and dryer will need to be vented, so the most practical placement is adjacent to an external wall. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent fires, particularly with a dryer. If it is not possible to place your new laundry set against an external wall, you will need to give ventilation some thought.

Is the Location Structurally Sound

While new appliances tend to be more stable than their older counterparts, there is still some vibration to consider. This means that your new placement needs to be structurally sound. If you are unsure whether your new location is suitable for supporting two new appliances, it is a good idea to have it checked by a professional contractor.

Noise

Even the best quality washers and dryers still make some noise, so you need to think about whether the noise produced will disturb you. If your new set is placed near work, sleeping or leisure areas, you will need to think about noise suppression. Ideally, you will be able to close a door on the appliances to keep in the noise when you’re doing laundry. If this is not possible, you may need to think about installing wallboard that can dampen any noise and vibrations.

Choose the Right Flooring

Before you place your new laundry set, you need to look at your floor. The floor not only needs to be level, but you also may want to sort your laundry on the floor. This means a garage with a dirt floor may not be sufficient for your needs. Ideally, your floor should be waterproof in case of any spills and look attractive to complement your new appliances.

Choose the Right Appliances

Finally, you need to ensure that you choose the right washer and dryer for your home. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that combine performance and value. If you have limited space, you may need to consider whether you need appliances that can be stacked or a front loading washer that can accommodate a dryer above. Bear in mind that front loaders tend to be quieter compared to a top loader, but they still produce a high-frequency noise when entering the final spin cycle. You may also need to consider the cycle time and features.

Every home needs a different layout for laundry appliances, and there are lots of helpful accessories to meet your requirements. If you need to raise the height of your washing machine or want to stack your appliances, there are kits and pedestals to assist you.

If you’re looking for a stack kit or would like to explore your options, consider this online collection of laundry accessories or speak to a home appliance expert for specialized help.

Tips for Front Load Washers

Front load washers can offer some impressive advantages over their top loading counterparts. These advanced home appliances allow fine control over the settings, the ability to handle large loads and smartphone-enabled features. Unfortunately, if you are used to a top loading washer, you may not be aware of how to get the best out of your new appliance. So, here are some tips for your new front load washer.

Leave the Door Open

When your load is complete, you should remove the clothing as soon as possible and then leave the door slightly ajar. This promotes air circulation and can help you to avoid mold or mildew problems. Front load washers are prone to developing unpleasant smells as mold can form around a damp door seal. Leaving the door open will allow the seal to dry out and should help to prevent mold. If you do notice an issue starting to develop, don’t ignore it; this can lead to your clothes developing a musty odor. Periodically cleaning the door seal using some mild detergent will keep it odor free, just be sure to dry it using a paper towel to avoid dampness.

Use the Right Detergent

You may not get the best performance from your new front load washer if you use your old brand of detergent. While this may have been sufficient for your old top loader, front loaders require high-efficiency detergent products. Regular detergents create more suds, and this can leave a film of residue on the drum and hoses, promoting mold. This residue may also cause mechanical or electronic damage to your appliance and could potentially void your warranty. Front load washers use less water and therefore, need less detergent. You should only purchase detergent that is high efficiency or labeled “HE” for optimum results. Remember too much soap is not a good thing, so stick to the recommended amounts.

Run the Cleaning Cycle Regularly

Most manufacturers recommend running a cleaning cycle regularly to prevent any potential issues with mildew or mold. You may find that adding a commercial washer cleaning product can keep your appliance smelling fresh and looking clean, but take note of the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Plan for Ultimate Efficiency

A front load washer tends to have a longer wash cycle compared to a top loader. As this type of machine uses less water, it can take longer to get your load clean. Fortunately, the higher spin speed means shorter drying times. So, plan your laundry accordingly. Some appliances have delay timers, so you can have your load end when it is most convenient for you.

No home is complete without a great laundry appliance. The right washing machine can be a fantastic time saver and protect your clothing from damage.

If you’re looking for a new laundry appliance, you can explore the available options with this online collection of laundry appliances or speak to a home appliance expert for further help.

Appliances That’ll Make Your New Kitchen the Envy of Your Friends

Upgrading your kitchen is the ideal time to consider new appliances. While there are some great basic items available, there are some appliances that will make your new kitchen the envy of all your friends. Some of today’s appliances can exceed expectations and improve the functionality of your kitchen immeasurably. So, here are just some of the must-have appliances you need for the ultimate balance of form and function.

The Pro Look

You don’t need to purchase a commercial appliance to get that impressive pro look. There are many appliances that are inspired by professional kitchens to offer superb functionality and sleek aesthetics. Commercial style ranges are powerful and complement any type of kitchen decor. There are also professionally inspired dishwashers, refrigerators and other appliances that can deliver that pro look and make it even easier to prepare a gourmet treat.

All in One Coffee Makers

The humble coffee maker has come a long way in recent years. You no longer need to have just a coffee pot sitting on your countertop; you can get that authentic coffee house feeling with an all-in-one appliance. There are coffee makers that can not only filters your water, but grinds your beans and makes the perfect espresso or cappuccino. These types of devices not only save you time in your kitchen, but also makes coffee after a dinner party something really special.

Blender with an Immersion Attachment

There is no need to clutter your countertop with a bulky blender. Nowadays, you can buy an immersion blender with attachments. Handheld blenders are easy to use and far simpler to clean. They also take up far less space in your cabinets. You can now purchase handheld blenders that have a myriad of attachments including ones for grinding and whipping which allow you to save space and time.

Flexible Shelving

In today’s marketplace, there is no need to put up with a refrigerator that has fixed shelving positions and minimal drawers. There are many models that offer great flexibility. These models offer adjustable shelves, multiple door compartments, and practical crisper drawers. This means that you can keep all your chilled items and produce fresh and organized. A well-organized refrigerator will make preparing a meal easier and reduce waste. You’ll be able to cook like a professional chef when you can have easy access to all your ingredients.

High-Quality Dishwashers

Presenting your guests with spotted dishes and dull silverware can be a little embarrassing, but you don’t need to spend hours hand-washing. There are lots of dishwasher models that offer superb cleaning. From powerful wash cycles to efficient drying features, you can ensure that all your dishes are sparkling clean when you serve your guests.

Today our kitchens need to fulfill many needs, but by carefully choosing new appliances, you can save money and time. There are lots of appealing appliances and features that can make your kitchen more efficient and easier to use. With the right appliances, you’re sure to have your kitchen be the envy of all your friends.

Every kitchen can benefit from standout appliances that can complete an overall aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for an attractive coffee maker or a sleek new dishwasher, the right appliance can create a fantastic new look for your kitchen. The right appliances can not only improve the aesthetics of your kitchen, but also enhance functionality to ensure that your kitchen is completely amazing.

If you would like to explore the range of attractive appliances, you can use this online collection or contact a home appliance expert for further help.

Tips for Positioning Your Oven Shelves for Perfect Baking

Baking is part science and part art form. Even if you’re following a recipe completely, you can still get unexpected results from your oven. If you want to perfect your baking skills, you may need to rearrange your oven racks or shelves. Most types of electric oven have a heating coil in the bottom to generate heat. This means that placing your racks too close can cause uneven baking and you could end up with sunken cakes and burned pastries. So, here are some tips to help you get your oven shelving placement correct for perfect baking results.

Consider What You’re Baking

Generally, the middle of your oven is the best place for baking. This provides the ideal position for air circulation and more even results. Remember that heat rises, so top and low rack positions can be very hot, as a result, your baked goods may get burned. Try to position your shelf in the middle rack position for the best results, unless you need a browned bottom on your dish. For example, while you may want an even bake on a cake, a fruit pie can be prone to a soggy bottom. So, while a cake is better in the middle of the oven, a lower shelf position is better for a pie. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid it becoming overbaked.

Plan for Multiple Bakes

If you need to bake several items simultaneously, you will need to plan in advance. Don’t just place your pans and cookie sheets where they will fit. You’ll need to reorganize the shelves for the best results before you start to preheat the oven. If you are baking two cakes, ideally, both pans should be on the middle shelf. If you want to bake trays of cookies, bake one at the top and one at the bottom, but keep a close watch on them to avoid burning. Items such as meringues can benefit from being placed at the top of your oven, as the hot position allows the meringue to color quickly without the filling heating up.

Check for Hotspots

All ovens are different, and some may be prone to hotspots. This can create uneven baking results if you are unaware where the hotspots are. You can easily check for hotspots using a cookie sheet and some slices of bread. Lay the bread on the sheet and bake until the slices start to brown. The browning pattern will indicate the hotter and cooler areas of your oven.

Watch and Rotate

Even if you have the ideal oven shelf placement, you can’t simply put your baking in the oven and forget about it. For perfect results, you’ll need to watch it and be prepared to rotate your cake pans, pie dishes or cookie sheets. If you’re baking an item for 30 minutes, set your timer for 10 or 15 minutes so you can rotate midway through baking. This will allow a more even browned finish and delicious results.

Repositioning your oven racks can improve the quality of your baking, for more even browning and avoiding scorching. With the correct rack placement, you can ensure that the recipe you follow creates picture-perfect results.

If you want to enhance your baking, you need to ensure that you have the right oven. By choosing an appliance that offers great flexibility, you can adjust your oven racks correctly for the best results

If you’re looking for a new oven, you can explore the options with this online collection of ovens, stoves, and cooktops or speak to a home appliance experts for a specialized service.

Integrating a Microwave into Your New Kitchen Design

Microwaves are considered vital in today’s busy lives, but it is hard to deny that they can take up a great deal of counter space. This can be problematic in even the most generous of kitchen layouts, but it is possible to reclaim some of this precious space by integrating your microwave into a new kitchen design.

Choosing the Right Microwave

Before you can even consider integrating your microwave, you need to choose the right model. Countertop models can be tucked into a shelf, or you could opt for a wall mounted unit. If you have limited space, you may prefer a drawer style unit that can be placed at any height. Over the range microwaves can be directly placed above your oven, sharing light and ventilation with the range below. Your choice of microwave model will have a direct impact on how it can be integrated into your kitchen design, so you will need to give it some serious thought before you make a purchase decision.

Stack Your Cooking Appliances Vertically

A floor to ceiling unit can be a fantastic, space saving way to stack your cooking appliances on top of each other. This configuration not only looks sleek and attractive, but helps to maximize space. A single unit tower allows you to have lots of serving and prep space alongside your oven or microwave.

Group Horizontally

A horizontal grouping can also save space and still offer great functionality. Placing a drawer microwave alongside your oven makes it easy to move food from one appliance to the other. For example, you can quickly transfer baked potatoes from your microwave to your oven to finish them off. This creates a visual aesthetic of a professional kitchen with a sleek look that complements any style of kitchen design.

Conceal it in a Larder

Modern kitchens are harking back to the past with larder units coming back into fashion. Not only is a larder an excellent storage option for your canned goods, but it can also hide your microwave and free up counter space. If you want a minimalist feel to your kitchen, you could even store all your other small appliances in the larder. Just be sure to keep the larder doors open when your microwave is in use.

Place it High

This isn’t an option for people with children interested in independent cooking or those who are vertically challenged, but placing your microwave at eye level can save counter space and also add interest to a run of wall units. If you don’t like the idea of your microwave compromising the sleek aesthetics of your wall cabinets, you could always conceal it within a unit. You will need to ensure there’s sufficient ventilation and you will be restricted to use only when the door is open.

Recess It

If you have wall space available from a closet or garage, it could be possible to recess your microwave into the wall. This provides a convenient solution without it looking unsightly protruding out into the kitchen. Ideally, your recess would be created near your range for complete ease of use.

Consider Additional Microwave Features

If you are still struggling to incorporate a microwave into your kitchen, you may wish to consider a model with additional features. There are models available with grilling elements. This eliminates the need to have both a microwave and toaster oven in your kitchen. You can not only use the appliance as a standard microwave, but you can also toast, brown and crisp your food.

A microwave is an essential appliance in the modern kitchen. Fortunately, there are a myriad of choices to find the ideal model for your kitchen layout. If you’re looking for a new microwave, you can explore your options with this online collection of microwaves or speak to a home appliance expert for a more specialized service.