Probably the most important feature of a kitchen.
Jan 07 '02
The Bottom Line It will depend on kitchen and counter space as to the size you purchase. I would suggest buying the largest your area will take.
In my father's home a Microwave oven you will not see. Food has to be cooked in a 'proper oven' he proclaims.
In the real world the Microwave oven has to some extent taken over from the main cooker/oven/stove or whatever you call it.
When we arrived in Tampa we headed for the mall. Our kitchen had all the main appliances but not a microwave.
Off we went to each of the departmental stores.
What did we want?
First thoughts are to re-heat food, but is that all. Wouldn't it be nice to have one big enough to say, cook a casserole. Okay, that eliminates the .500 cu.ft. size. If you have the space go for a minimum of 1 cu.ft.
Can we cook a joint of meat in it?
We chose one with a Temperature Probe Sensor. With this feature we are able to get our meat perfect every time with no chance of under cooked meat to make us sick.
Will it stay warm?
A 'hold warm' will allow the food to stay at level 1 for up to 100 minutes after cooking time.
What if I plan on cooking something that has to be cooked at 2 different levels.
Okay so I have a recipe that states 20 minutes on the first level and 20 on a lower temperature. Do I have to stand around and wait. Not with Memory/Recall. This is just wonderful. The one I chose actually has 3 memory stages and also includes a programmed defrost.
A regular cooker has a delay start feature.
A microwave can do exactly the same thing. However, the one I purchased is only 99 minutes and 99 seconds delay. Great for when we play tennis. I can get everything set up to start while we are out, and the meal awaits us upon our return.
Anything else we need to know or check out.
The machine itself. The one I chose can be free standing, under the cabinet, or a wall mount. Personally I think mine has the best of both worlds.
What about color. Do you intend to decorate the kitchen in the near future. If so, will it blend in well.
Does it have a see-through door. Easy-clean back and sides. A sturdy glass tray. We purchased the flat bottom style. I personally think that the turn table style wastes too much room. They also take more time to clean.
The oven control panel should be easy to read. The numbers and buttons large enough to press without touching each other.
Mothers with small children should be looking for a microwave with a child lock-out. Mine has this feature although I have never had to use it.
Final thoughts
I could go on about fast defrost and the level settings, but they are standard on all microwaves.
What would I choose for my next microwave? I have had a Kenmore for 14 years. It should have cost $189 and I bought it in Sears, dent and scratch area. The scratch being on the side next to the wall. I have used it every single day. It is still working perfectly. Buy a good make if it is to get regular use. Look out for sale items, floor models, or special offers. You won't be disappointed.
Thank you for reading.
~Susan~
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