Miele: Built-in Microwave Oven with Side Sensor Controls, SS
Specifying a domestic microwave that’s fit for purpose in a workplace may seem simple.
But we often hear of workplace microwaves prematurely failing. When we delve deeper into the issue to gain an understanding from our clients as to the kind of unit that has been selected, how many people it’s servicing on a daily basis, and the type of installation and ventilation the unit has, we’re able to ascertain why a product may not be performing as expected. It’s important to ensure the right microwave is appointed, as failure to do so can have serious ramifications beyond just unit burn out.
If you are looking to install a new microwave into a workplace, here are three key things to keep in mind.
Workplace Kitchens: Reduce Clutter, Utilise Appliance Integration with Cabinetry
Firstly, the use of a commercial grade microwave is best kept for a commercial kitchen setting such as a restaurant. Their high wattage and rapid heat settings make commercial grade microwaves an inappropriate product selection for the workplace due to potential risk of burns. Instead, for the workplace stick with a domestic microwave as a better option.
Secondly, take a step back and think about how the microwave will be used, because this will ultimately affect your product choice and installation.
One of the biggest issues we see in the workplace fit-outs is not understanding the concept of people to product ratios. It’s not uncommon to see one microwave servicing an entire floor of staff, and potentially more if that area is the company’s only kitchen.
Here, the risk is that the microwave will prematurely fail due to product exhaustion from servicing more people than it has been built to handle.
To avoid this, we recommend applying the ratio of one microwave per 20 people in office environments. This means that the microwave will last longer, and perform better over time, without risk of overheating and creating an unsafe working environment.
Thirdly, critical to performance, microwaves must also be installed correctly in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines. But all too often, these are ignored and the units are poorly positioned without the appropriate ventilation.
Fisher & Paykel: 600mm Built-In Microwave, Black with SS Trim
For example, we’ve seen freestanding microwave units not suitable for integration, integrated into cabinets without meeting the minimum manufacturer’s installation specifications for required space around the unit. A fire hazard waiting to happen.
With plenty of good free standing domestic microwaves on the market, choice is plentiful. However when it comes to seamless integration into cabinetry, there are two product solutions here to take note of. We recommend Fisher & Paykel’s 600mm Built-in microwave with SS or Black Trim, which can be installed correctly as part of built-in wall cabinetry, as well as Miele’s Built-in microwave, which has sensor controls on the side for a more convenient operation. Both offer a seamless and stylish look with high performance.
Miele: Built-in Microwave Oven with Side Sensor Controls, Obsidian Black
We also suggest designers consider creating additional ventilation over and above the manufacturer’s recommendations for workplace use, which can help mitigate potential issues.
Finally, it is important to note the manufacturer’s terms and conditions of the unit’s warranty when using the domestic appliance in a non-residential application. As going against manufacturer’s installation guidelines may invalidate the warranty. Something to keep in mind should a catastrophic event related to the unit occur.
Get these considerations right, and the result is a microwave that is fit for purpose in its intended space, with years of service. But get it wrong, and it may cost you more than you think.
For more information on Harvey Norman Commercial Victoria’s range of free-standing and built-in microwaves, click the learn more button below.
The team at Harvey Norman Commercial Victoria are pleased to share with you our insights and expertise. With over 1,800 products from 85 leading brands on display in our new state-of-the-art large format Selection Centre, Port Melbourne, we offer our clients the opportunity to see, touch and compare products in one place.
To make an appointment to visit our trade-only Selection Centre in Port Melbourne, contact our office on 03 8530 6300 or alternatively email our team via vic.commercial@au.harveynorman.com
Our knowledgeable and dedicated sales specialists are ready to assist.