How to choose the right microwave

Some people treat microwaves like low-quality burrito machines, but new technology has made it easier to cook a wider range of foods than expected. You can also cook. Many people consider it a must-have in the kitchen, even if you only use it to heat leftovers or coffee.

But just because we use microwaves a lot doesn’t mean we understand them. That becomes apparent when people buy a new microwave.I have gigantic Choosing the right microwave oven by looking at its various features and specifications starts with knowing how you will actually use it. Here’s a guide to everything you need to know.

Different types of microwave ovens

The first thing to decide is what kind of microwave you need.

• countertop. It’s usually the cheapest option and is designed to sit on your kitchen counter and plug into a wall outlet. Takes up valuable counter space, but can be moved when needed.
• Over the range. Microwaves can be mounted on brackets under kitchen cabinets and above stovetops. This makes sense because you can keep all your heat-based cooking in one place. If you are replacing an existing microwave, check how your old microwave was installed. Metal brackets usually do the heavy lifting of holding them in place, so you need to make sure your new microwave will fit or be provided with your existing brackets. something new. Out-of-range models typically connect to the kitchen exhaust to ventilate while cooking.

• within the wall. These microwaves are designed to be recessed into the wall and are usually finished with finishes and trim-ins. If they are out of reach, you may need a contractor to install these. A consideration here is to choose a common size and shape. You can find a weird “tall” microwave, but if you choose one, you’ll be stuck in that weird profile for a long time.
• drawer. Drawer microwaves, which are usually the most expensive option, are found in drawers in lower cabinets in the kitchen and pull out like a drawer. These keep your counters clean and are easy to use because you don’t reach for sizzling bowls and stuff. I can.

Of course, your choice of microwave type may be limited by your existing setup, but if you’re refurbishing it’s your chance to have a distributor.

Prices of different types of microwave ovens

Microwave prices vary considerably, so knowing your budget can go a long way in narrowing down your choices. Generally speaking, here’s how much you can expect to spend on different types of microwave ovens:

• Countertop: $50 to $300, but the low end includes an underpowered oven (see wattage section) and is useless for more than the occasional snack.
• Out of range: $200 to $400.
• Embedded: $400 to $1,000 (does not include installation and trim work).
• drawer: $1,000 to $2,000 (not including installation and finishing).

Consider the size of your microwave

There are two considerations when it comes to microwave size: inside and outside.

• interior: All microwave oven capacities are measured in cubic feet and range from 0.5 cubic feet to about 2.2 cubic feet at the upper limit (seeLarge capacity” microwave). The smaller model is big enough to hold a dinner plate or a bag of popcorn, but that’s about it. The largest microwaves can accommodate larger utensils and more items. Most people need something in between, usually about 1.5 cubic feet. If you find yourself microwaving a lot of big plates, go big. Add a bag of popcorn every now and then to make it smaller.
• exterior. External dimensions must also be considered. Most out-of-range models are designed to exceed standard oven sizes, but if replacing an existing oven, measurements should be taken first to confirm the required dimensions.If you’re opting for a countertop model, it depends entirely on your space needs. Designed to fit in cornersThis is your chance to consider how well your current microwave works on your counter and adjust it if necessary.

Microwave wattage matters

Another important aspect of the microwave is its power. You may notice that microwaveable foods have different instructions based on their wattage. sturdy kitchenA 700-watt microwave can pop a bag of popcorn in about 2 minutes and 15 seconds, while a 1500-watt oven can serve it up in less than half the time. increase.

you can get some wild Microwave ovens up to 2400 watts in the commercial field. For your home, the highest you’ll find is around 1,250 watts. Generally, you should maintain at least 700 watts, with 900-1000 watts optimal for most cooking applications. But by all means — if you have the money and need to shave off that popping session by 45 seconds, go bigger.

The most common and important microwave features

Finally, modern microwave ovens have many options. In fact, even the basic model comes with programmed buttons for reheating popcorn, baked potatoes, and travel mugs. No matter how expensive your microwave is, reading the manual at least once to understand some of the features it comes with is a good use of your time. Other options to consider:

• Multipurpose: You can find microwaves that offer a one-for-two (or more) advantage in combination with other oven technologies such as convection ovens, toasters, rotisserie cookers, and air fryers. This is especially useful when space is limited or when making elaborate meals.
• Child lockout: If you have a child who likes to open and examine things, the child lock feature can prevent them from opening the microwave and getting burned later when you take something out a little too late. Ding.
• Optional Rotation: Microwaves cook food by bombarding it with radio waves, causing molecules to vibrate and rotating the food for an even effect. However, if you have a large dish or pan that fits in the microwave but doesn’t rotate easily, you may want the ability to turn off the rotation and manually rotate the dish.
• rack: Do you cook a lot in the microwave? Having the ability to insert a rack so that you can cook two items at once is a huge time saver.

The microwave oven is an incredible invention. Buying too many (or too few) ovens or appliances that don’t fit your cooking space can dull the benefits your microwave offers, so weigh each aspect of your needs before committing. Please be sure to consider this.