Microwaves

Different Types of Microwaves

Microwave ovens come in several configurations to suit varying cooking needs and kitchen layouts.

Microwave ovens

Microwave Ovens use electromagnetic waves to heat food quickly and efficiently. These represent the most common type, suitable for reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen items, and basic cooking tasks.

Countertop models sit on benchtops or tables, offering easy setup without installation requirements. These suit renters or households wanting flexibility to relocate the appliance.

Convection Microwaves

Convection Microwave Ovens include internal fans distributing heated air throughout the cavity, functioning like traditional fan-forced ovens. These enable grilling, steaming, and baking in addition to standard microwave functions.

Convection models preheat quickly and consume less energy than full-sized ovens, making them economical for smaller cooking tasks. Some models like the Family Size series accommodate large pizzas or family-sized roasts despite compact external dimensions.

These suit small families, compact kitchens, caravans, and holiday homes as standalone cooking appliances. Larger families benefit from using them alongside regular ovens to save time when preparing multiple dishes.

Built-In Microwaves

Built-In Microwave Ovens install within kitchen cabinetry for integrated aesthetics. Most built-in models are combination (combi) units offering microwave-only, oven-only, or simultaneous microwave-oven operation for fast, even cooking with browning capabilities.

These cost more than countertop alternatives but create minimalist appearances when coordinated with built-in ovens. Installation typically requires licensed electricians due to peak power consumption and dedicated circuit requirements.

Leading brands include Panasonic, Miele, Samsung, Sharp, and LG across all microwave configurations.

Microwave Features and Technologies

Power Output and Wattage

Most microwaves operate between 600-1200 watts, with higher wattage enabling faster cooking. Multiple power level settings allow lower wattage operation for gentle reheating or defrosting tasks requiring gradual heat application.

Microwave capacity and power generally increase with price. Compare wattage and capacity when evaluating models within similar price ranges to assess value.

Inverter Technology

Inverter microwaves deliver steady, gradual heat rather than pulsing between full power and off. This produces more even cooking and defrosting, particularly beneficial for eggs, sauces, and frozen items requiring gentle thawing.

Traditional microwaves cycle between full power and standby to achieve lower effective power, potentially creating hot and cold spots. Inverter technology maintains consistent low heat throughout the cooking duration.

Sensor Cooking

Automatic sensors detect steam and moisture levels, adjusting cooking time and power automatically. These features appear on models like Sharp Microwaves, delivering optimal results without manual time adjustment whilst reducing energy waste and preventing food spattering.

Flatbed Design

Flatbed microwaves eliminate traditional turntables, using different wave distribution technology to heat food evenly. This removes size restrictions on plates and containers, accommodating square dishes or multiple smaller containers simultaneously.

Preset Functions

Preset buttons for specific tasks like popcorn popping, frozen pizza heating, or beverage warming simplify operation. Multi-stage programming transitions automatically from defrosting to cooking without user intervention.

Choosing the Right Size Microwave

Microwave capacity measured in litres determines how much food fits inside simultaneously.

Capacity guidelines:

• Small (17-23L): 1-2 people, basic reheating and defrosting

• Medium (23-30L): 3-4 people, regular family cooking

• Large (30L+): 5+ people or those cooking larger items like roasts

External dimensions affect benchtop space requirements and built-in cavity sizing. Measure installation areas before purchasing, allowing additional clearance for ventilation around freestanding models.

Interior height, width, and depth determine which cookware fits inside. Tall items like large mugs or stacked containers require adequate internal height clearance.

Microwave Placement

Countertop Installation

Freestanding benchtop models require flat, stable surfaces with adequate ventilation clearance. Never enclose freestanding microwaves in cabinets—restricted airflow causes overheating and potential fire hazards.

Position away from other heat sources including conventional ovens, cooktops, and dishwasher vents. Maintain minimum clearance specified in manufacturer instructions, typically 10-15cm on sides and rear.

Built-In Installation

Built-in models integrate within cabinetry cutouts, creating cohesive kitchen aesthetics. Measure cavity dimensions precisely before purchasing, accounting for ventilation requirements specified in installation manuals.

Peak power consumption typically necessitates dedicated electrical circuits installed by licensed electricians. Built-in installations suit kitchen renovations where integrated appliance aesthetics are priorities.

Accessibility Considerations

Install at heights enabling comfortable loading and unloading for all household members. Eye-level placement reduces bending for frequent users, particularly important for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals.

Ensure adequate clearance for door opening without obstruction from adjacent cabinetry, appliances, or walls. Full door opening access enables safe removal of hot containers.

Microwave Safety and Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Food and liquid spills cook onto interior surfaces with each subsequent use, reducing heating efficiency and causing odours. Regular cleaning prevents buildup requiring intensive scrubbing later.

Cover food using microwave-safe lids or containers to prevent spatters and steam damage. Many modern microwaves feature anti-bacterial coatings like LG's EasyClean interiors or Samsung's Ceramic Inside, enabling quick wipe-down after use.

Clean interior walls using soapy cloths followed by barely damp clean cloths. Avoid excessive moisture and check user manuals for model-specific care instructions.

Safe Operation

Use only microwave-safe containers—metal causes arcing and potential fire hazards. Glass, ceramic, and microwave-safe plastic containers withstand microwave heating without releasing harmful chemicals.

Never operate empty microwaves. Running without food absorbs energy into the magnetron, potentially causing component failure or fire.

Ventilation Maintenance

Keep ventilation openings clear of dust and debris. Blocked vents restrict airflow, causing overheating and shortened appliance lifespan.

Inspect door seals regularly for damage or food buildup preventing proper closure. Damaged seals allow microwave energy leakage, reducing efficiency and potentially creating safety hazards.