WHAT IS A LOW PROFILE MICROWAVE?
A low profile microwave is a dual-purpose appliance crafted to fit into the under-cabinet hood space above the cooktop. These microwaves can cook food and help vent the smoke, grease and odors from the cooktop below, but have a smaller footprint than traditional over-the-range models.
At around 10 inches tall, 30 inches wide and 15 to 18 inches deep, low profile microwaves come with unique benefits and drawbacks. Learn what features these microwaves may have and find answers to questions about dimensions and ventilation requirements.
BENEFITS OF LOW PROFILE MICROWAVES
Low profile microwaves bring a blend of form and function to your kitchen. From clearing up valuable counter space and venting air to helping create a streamlined cooking environment, these microwaves can elevate your kitchen's style without sacrificing functionality. Learn more about five benefits of low profile microwaves below.
1. CLEARS COUNTER SPACE
Low profile microwaves free up valuable counter space compared to countertop models, giving you more room to prep your ingredients and utilize other small appliances that help with the process. With the microwave conveniently positioned above the stove, you can easily move between tasks and maximize the use of your counter space.
2. VENTS AIR
Low profile microwaves are designed to vent the smoke, grease and odors from the cooking surface below, helping your kitchen stay fresh and clean. This can be especially beneficial for high-heat cooking techniques like pan searing and stir-frying, allowing you to experiment with bold flavors and new dishes with less worry about venting concerns.
Select KitchenAid® low profile microwaves come equipped with a 500 CFM Motor Class Dual Fan Ventilation System for powerful venting. In comparison, most microwave hood combinations typically provide ventilation ranging from 200 to 500 CFM Motor Class.
3. SLEEK AESTHETIC
This slim microwave can contribute to a sleek aesthetic in the kitchen. These microwaves don’t typically extend below cabinetry, creating minimalistic, clean lines.
4. PRACTICAL FEATURES
Don’t let their compact size fool you; low profile microwaves can come with an array of features that deliver full functionality. Select KitchenAid® models include Sensor Cooking Functions with presets for popular cooking modes like Soften, Melt and Defrost, using a humidity sensor to monitor cooking progress and automatically adjusting cook time as needed.
5. OPENS SPACE ABOVE COOKTOP
At around 10 inches tall, low profile microwaves take up minimal space in your kitchen. This gives you more room above the stove, compared to a traditional over-the-range model, making it easier to maneuver when you're using large or tall pots and pans.
SHOP KITCHENAID® LOW PROFILE MICROWAVES
Available in both built-in and over-the-range configurations, KitchenAid® low profile microwaves provide a sleek aesthetic and practical cooking functions. Hidden microwave controls on select KitchenAid® microwaves are tucked away behind the door for a sleek exterior look, while the CookShield Finish on select models makes it easy to wipe the interior clean with a soft, damp cloth. Sensor functions on some KitchenAid® models automatically adjust the time needed to cook, reheat or defrost your food, removing the guesswork about power levels or cooking times.
DISADVANTAGES OF LOW PROFILE MICROWAVES
A low profile microwave may not be right for your kitchen if you frequently cook large batches of food, have mobility challenges or prefer the quick-and-easy installation of a countertop model. Learn more about drawbacks to low profile microwaves below.
1. SMALLER CAPACITY
The slim design of low profile microwaves means their capacity is more like that of a compact microwave, which may limit the cookware they can accommodate. Select models of KitchenAid brand’s low profile microwaves include a 12-inch recessed turntable that maximizes height inside the microwave to accommodate a variety of cookware, from mixing bowls to covered baking dishes.
2. ACCESSIBILITY
Since low profile microwaves are installed above the range, they can be harder to reach for shorter individuals or those with mobility challenges. In contrast, countertop or built-in microwaves that are positioned lower may offer easier access for everyone in the kitchen.
3. INSTALLATION
Unlike countertop microwaves, low profile models are installed above the cooktop and may need a trim kit to set up. Those unfamiliar with the installation process may need professional assistance.
LOW PROFILE MICROWAVE FEATURES
From versatile venting options to convenient presets and purposeful capacity, low profile microwaves offer a robust lineup of features that help you create whatever you dream up. For instance, select KitchenAid® models include:
Wattage: With 1,000-watt cooking power, select KitchenAid® low profile microwaves have the power to help you create your meals.
1.1 cu. ft. capacity: Unlike traditional compact microwaves, which offer anywhere from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet of capacity, select KitchenAid® low profile microwaves provide enough height for some mixing bowls and width for a 9-inch by 13-inch casserole dish.
Sensor cooking functions: Some microwaves provide convenient presets for popular cooking modes, including Popcorn, Reheat, Soften, Melt and Defrost. A humidity sensor monitors cooking progress and automatically adjusts cook time as needed.
4-speed fan control: Select microwaves features multiple ventilation settings, so you can choose the right fan speed for every cooking adventure, from gentle simmering to high-heat searing.
Two LED task lights: Providing two levels of brightness, these lights—available on select models—allow you to illuminate the entire cooking surface below with the pure white light of two brilliant LEDs or subtly accent the kitchen with a Night Light setting.
500 CFM Motor Class Dual Fan Ventilation: Some KitchenAid® low profile microwaves help capture smoke, grease and odors from the cooking surface below by using powerful ventilation for everything from simmering to high-temperature cooking techniques.
- Hidden microwave controls: Low profile microwaves with hidden controls let you choose cooking settings when opening the microwave to place food inside. When closed, controls are hidden behind the door for a sleek exterior look.
ARE ALL LOW PROFILE MICROWAVES 18 INCHES DEEP?
Low profile microwaves are typically 18 inches deep, but depending on the model, they can range from about 15 to 18 inches in depth. Select low profile microwaves by KitchenAid brand offer an 18-inch depth with 1.1 cubic feet of space to accommodate items like some mixing bowls or a 9-inch by 13-inch casserole dish.
DO LOW PROFILE MICROWAVES REQUIRE VENTILATION?
Whether labeled as built-in or over-the-range, a low profile microwave can double as a sleek replacement for an under-cabinet vent hood and require proper ventilation. Not all models require ductwork to vent, and some may offer flexible venting options. Check your owner’s manual to be sure.
Select KitchenAid® microwaves, like this low profile microwave hood combination, can be installed to vent air outside through ductwork or recirculate it through a filter, helping to keep your kitchen fresh without the need for exterior ductwork.
