Things to look for when buying microwave
CONSIDER SIZE FIRST
To start out your selection, check out size first. What dishes will fit inside the oven? Do you want a counter-top model or a built-in?
Warranties — All parts, including the magnetron tube and labor, should be guaranteed for the first year. Warranties vary greatly among manufacturers. Wattage — Find out the wattage for those models you’re interested in. The higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time. Try to choose a model that puts out between 600-700 watts or you will be disappointed.
LOOK AT FEATURES
Depending on which brand you select, many of these options are available:
Browning element — improves the appearance of certain foods which ordinarily do not brown in microwave oven.
Variable cooking cycle — allows much greater flexibility in cooking. Allows warming, sauteing, simmering, roasting, etc. A must when considering how long you will own the appliance and the fact that your expertise will grow tremendously.
Automatic defrost cycle — lets you defrost foods without cooking them.
Cooking guide — located on the front of the oven, gives quick reference of cooking times for many foods and dishes. Handy but optional.
Automatic temperature probe — registers internal temperature of foods for more accurate cooking results.
Timer — you’ll want to purchase a microwave oven with a timer that is easy for you to understand and use. Remember, in microwave cooking you cook by time, not temperature. Get one with at least 30 minutes — 60 is better.
Push button programming — works like a calculator. Some even give audio feedback. Enables you to program a whole cycle: defrost frozen item, hold, then cook it — has memory bank.
Dual models — if you are ready to replace your old range, there are additional choices besides just countertop microwave models. They also come available with both gas and electrical ranges, generally with the microwave oven on top, the conventional oven and range below.
The combination ovens and the dual models with microwave oven above the standard oven, both require 220- to 240-volt outlets just like a regular oven.
The countertop microwave ovens operate on a standard 110 to 120 current with a grounding plug a necessity. For best results, a separate outlet is needed.