Buying Guide: Microwaves
The microwave operates basically though an item called a magnetron, which literally heats the food from the inside out. The reason why all foods can heat in such a dramatic fashion – compared to the oven – is due to the fact that the food is cooked through friction. As the microwave is turned on, microwaves travel through the food and then cause reactions with the molecules, the constant “stirring” of these molecules are what “heats” the food, and changes the status from chilled, to warm. This is how food can sometimes become rather hot on the inside of the item, and cold on the exterior. Until recently, there wasn’t much that could be done to treat this cause. However, now there are a plethora of new microwaves that are battling this outer-coldness.
So for you buyers out there, there are a few various considerations one must review. For one, there are two different kinds of microwaves – countertop and over-the-range. The latter of the two are the largest of the two (with sizes up to 2.2 cubic feet), and are exactly as they sound, they fit over an electric/gas range. The countertop microwaves are the more commonly found microwaves, with sizes ranging up to 1.8 cubic feet – however, these sizes are all subject to change as newer models are constantly being produced.
When one is considering buying an OTR microwave, you must know your size limits. Most OTR’s have the basic dimensions of the height being 13″; width 23″; depth 18″. One of the most aggravating things that a consumer, as well as a reseller, comes across are individuals who do not know the amount of space that is allotted to them. It is HIGHLY recommended that one measures to know exactly the space they can work with. Trust me, this will make your buying experience a lot more pleasant. There are various other aspects to look for when buying an OTR. The first being, is the item outfitted with sensor cooking? Also, what is the big deal with sensor cooking? When one has a microwave that uses this technology, it means that the food is cooked via a senor, which eliminates overcooked or undercooked food. Such microwaves the come with sensor cooking are: KitchenAid Architect Model: KCMS185JSS; GE Profile Model: JE2160SF; Whirlpool Model: MT4155SPS. Another great tip, make sure that you get an OTR that has a rack on the inside. The main benefit this item contains is the ability to elevate food for an even cook, as well as it adds more space throughout the unit for more food placement.
When one is also considering buying a countertop microwave, the rules are pretty much the same for the OTRs. Make sure that you know your size requirements. Also, there is one microwave that I highly recommend over all other countertop microwaves. It is the Inverter Sensor Cooking from Panasonic. This cooking mechanism basically prepares your food in a such fashion that you will not believe that it was cooked in a microwave. So, no matter what kind of microwave you are looking for, I suggest going with a Panasonic.
