A microwave oven has become a significant part of every household these days. It is one of the most amazing wonders of the modern kitchen. If you are planning to buy a new microwave oven, here are some tips I have learned through my experiences to help you buy the best microwave in the market.
Now follow these 10 best ways to choose a microwave oven:
1) Function of microwave:
First, decide on the type of microwave oven based on the function you want to buy- a standard microwave or a convection microwave. To clarify things, a typical microwave is sufficient for heating food or cooking ready meals. In contrast, a convection microwave combines a microwave oven and a convection oven, allowing you to microwave, grill, and cook.
2) Size:
Compact – It is also called portable or countertop and is the most miniature microwave oven available. They are primarily used for light cooking and reheating cooked food.
Built-in – These are similar to the traditional ovens and are built into the cabinetry. They are more expensive than the countertop models; some are combined with an exhaust fan for installation. They are usually combined with a convection oven, allowing you to cook and grill
3) Capacity:
Choose a suitable capacity for your microwave based on your needs.
Medium capacity – They are slightly larger than the compact ones and are the standard most households use. They tend to have some ‘auto-cook’ features and may have a convection oven added to them.
Large capacity – They are just the right choice for cooking large meals, especially roasts and turkey breasts, and have even more ‘auto-cook’ options than the smaller ones.
Portable/Desktop mini-microwave ovens are the smallest microwaves designed to support portability.
4) Power consumption:
A microwave with a high wattage cooks quicker. When going in for a microwave, choose a microwave that offers you a range at different levels. Also, remember that the power specified by a microwave manufacturer is the maximum power it can offer. Also, check the amount of power it consumes for cooking.
5) Efficiency:
A way to assess the efficiency of a microwave is to determine how much energy is wasted in other forms of cooking. Cooking in conventional ovens is slightly different, and it may be a little tricky to assess the efficiency of these microwave ovens.
6) Turntable:
Most of the microwave ovens today come with a turntable attached to them. With the turn table attachment, the food has an even exposure to the heating waves all the way through. Without this option, the heating waves can penetrate only to a certain depth beyond the surface of the heating food. So it is better to go in for one with a turntable option.
7) Controls:
Today, microwaves come with a lot of keypad control options. Go in for one with keys for auto functions that help in the instant cooking of food. Also, additional functionalities are provided by the touch of a button. Or if you prefer the old-style microwaves with a dial control, go ahead.
8) Based on design:
Choose a design that would best compliment your kitchen style, kitchen interiors, the colour you have painted your kitchen, and the appliances in your kitchen. Choosing the right design is essential if you are concerned about your interiors and want to impress people.
Also, if you are looking for a built-in model, ensure your kitchen has enough space to accommodate the microwave oven and the exhaust fan. And as for compact ones, make sure you find the right place to place them.
9) Features:
Microwave ovens provide specific features: auto programs, cook or defrost functions, temperature probes, child locks, sensors, removable racks, crisping functions, etc.
Choose the one according to your preferences. Check for easy cleaning options, with removable racks and trays for cleaning the interior part and the ones that sustain scratches on the exterior.
10) Budget:
The last but most important one is to choose a microwave for your budget. Check out the ones that fall within your budget and choose the best one. Countertop ones are cheaper than the built-in models.
Also, the right size is needed to stick to your budget. Choose necessary features you need, and don’t waste your money on unnecessary features. Look for the warranty services offered by the vendors.
With these tips, you should be able to get a good microwave for your household. Happy shopping!