A microwave oven has become a major 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 to help you buy the best microwave in the market that I have learnt through my own experiences.
Now just follow these 10 best ways to choose a microwave oven:
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1) Function of microwave:
First decide on the type of microwave oven based on its function you want to buy- a standard microwave, or a convection microwave. To make things more clear, a standard microwave is just sufficient for heating food or cooking ready meals, whereas a convection microwave is a combination of a microwave oven and a convection oven, and allows you to microwave, grill and cook.
2) Size:
Compact - It is also called portable or counter-top, and is the smallest type of the microwave ovens available in the market. 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 counter-top models, and some are combined with an exhaust fan for installation. They are usually combined with a convection oven, and hence allow you to cook as well as grill.
3) Capacity:
Choose the right capacity for your microwave based on your needs.
Medium capacity - They are slightly larger than the compact ones and are the standard ones used by most of the households. 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 - These are the smallest microwaves designed to support portability.
4) Power consumption:
A microwave with a high wattage cooks quicker. When you are going in for a microwave, try to choose a microwave that offers you a range at different levels. Also do remember that the power specified by a microwave manufacturer is the maximum power that can be offered by it. Also check the amount of power it consumes for cooking.
5) Efficiency:
A way to assess the efficiency of a microwave is to assess how much energy is wasted in other forms of cooking. Cooking in conventional ovens is slightly different, and it may be a little difficult to assess the efficiency of these types of microwave ovens.
6) Turn table:
Most of the microwave ovens today come with a turn table attached to them. With the turn table attachment, the food has an even exposure to the heating waves all way through. Without this option, the heating waves can penetrate to only to a certain depth beyond the surface of the heating food. So it is better to go in for one with a turn table option.
7) Controls:
Microwaves today come with a lot of keypad control options. Go in for one that has keys for auto functions that helps in instant cooking of food. Also there are additional functionalities that are provided by the touch of button. Or if you prefer the old style microwaves, with a dial control, then go ahead with it.
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 one important thing if you are concerned about your interiors, and if you want to impress people. And also, if you are going in for a built-in model, be sure that your kitchen has enough space to accommodate the microwave oven as well as the exhaust fan. And as for compact ones, make sure you find the right place to place it.
9) Features:
Some of the specific features provided by microwave ovens are auto programs, cook or defrost functions, temperature probes, child lock, sensors, removable racks, crisping functions, etc. Choose the one according to your preferences. And do check for easy clean options, with removable racks and trays for cleaning the interior part, and ones that sustains scratches on the exterior.
10) Budget;
Last one, but the most important one is to choose a microwave for your budget. Check out the ones that fall in your budget and choose the best among them. Counter top ones are cheaper than the built-in models. Also the right size needed for you 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!
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