Does your kitchen have limited counter space? Are you tired of making two separate trips to heat leftovers or other food? Over-the-range microwaves offer the perfect solution for busy kitchens.
OTR microwaves are compact and can be placed on shelves or mounted on the wall for easy access. They also take up less space than traditional ovens, which is a common complaint among small kitchens. If you’re thinking about buying an over-the-range microwave, here are some handy tips that can make your search easier.
Knowing the different types of microwaves
With the introduction of microwaves in the 1950s, the industry saw the introduction of new types. These included convection microwaves and digital microwaves. Convection microwaves are similar to conventional ovens but use a spinning plate to distribute the microwave energy evenly.
They are useful for cooking food evenly due to the rotating plate, which cooks the food from all sides. Digital microwaves are also similar to conventional ovens, but they have a direct transmission system that gives increased power. This is useful for preparing food quickly.
Besides these two basic types, there are also microwave hoods and microwave combos. These are designed for specific purposes and are rarely used in the kitchen. Microwave combos are basically a microwave and an electric range combined in one unit. Microwave hoods are used to heat food while it’s being prepared in the kitchen. They basically look like a fan and come in a variety of styles and sizes.
How do you know if an OTR microwave is right for you?
Since over-the-range microwaves are very similar in function to conventional ovens, there are a few things to keep in mind before buying one. The first will be your space. Before you make the decision to buy an OTR microwave, you’ll want to make sure it fits in your space. Oven size, the footprint of the microwave, and the height of the cabinet will be helpful in determining the correct size.
If you’re in a tight spot, be sure to keep that in mind. After you’ve determined the correct size, you’ll want to determine if you’re going to need a convection microwave, a digital microwave, or a combination of the two. A convection microwave is ideal for removing the guesswork from baking.
It uses a fan to distribute the microwave energy more evenly, making cakes and other baked goods come out clean and crisp. A digital microwave is great for speeding up the cooking process and can be used to make frozen foods, such as frozen dinners, or reheat leftovers like pizza.
Maintain Dining Room Etiquette When Using Your Microwave
Over the range microwaves are like any other appliance in your kitchen and should be used as part of your daily routine. Microwaves can be used to heat food, water, or beverages. The only thing you can’t do with them is cook. Unfortunately, some people get into the habit of using them only to heat leftovers.
This can lead to some bad eating habits and have a negative impact on your health. Always use your microwave to heat water, food, or beverages. If you’re not sure what to make, there are plenty of healthy recipes online. If you’re heating food, make sure you’re following the dietary guidelines for your diet.
Don’t buy based on price alone.
The first thing you should look for when deciding on an over-the-range microwave is the cost. While this is important, it is not the only thing you should consider. You should also take into account features, size, and ease of use when choosing your new microwave.
A higher-priced microwave may be able to fit in a smaller footprint than a cheaper one, but it will be more difficult to use. and the features and ease of use may be the same regardless of price.
You should also consider whether you need a combo microwave or a microwave for only one purpose. While a combo microwave is convenient for heating both food and water, it is less powerful than a microwave for heating food alone.
Understanding What to Look for in an OTR Microwave
Now that you know what to look for, here are some features you might want to keep an eye out for in your new microwave.
Power: Microwaves come in a variety of power ratings, with the lower number indicating lower power. A power rating of 800 or 1,000 watts is ideal for most kitchens. Anything lower or higher may be needed in a larger or smaller space, or if you want to use a microwave with a higher-powered convection pan.
Control Panel: The control panel is the part of the microwave that will be visible when the door is open. It consists of a display screen and a few buttons. The screen displays the time, power, and other information like the cooking time and power setting.
Size: OTR microwaves come in a wide range of sizes, usually 9 inches or 10 inches. More expensive models may be slightly smaller, but many are large enough to fit a 9-inch pizza.
Features: Some microwave brands offer extra features that can be useful, such as an defrost setting, a steam basket, or a delay timer. Some even offer a built-in griddle or a toaster. If you use these features often, you may find them worth the extra cost.
Know the basics before buying an OTR microwave.
Before you head to the store to buy your new microwave, you’ll want to make sure you’re familiar with the basics.
cooking times of your favorite foods: A key feature to look for in a microwave is the cooking times of your most frequently used foods.
Wattage of your current microwave: It’s important to know the wattage of your current microwave. If you’re not sure, consult with the manufacturer of your current microwave.
sizes of your current storage containers: If you store foods like leftovers or snacks in jars, you’ll want to make sure your new microwave will fit them.
Conclusion
Over-the-range microwaves are a great choice for busy households. They take up less space than a conventional oven and can be easily stored under the counter without taking up much room in the cabinet.
And since they use the same power as a conventional microwave, you can easily use them for reheating food or using frozen foods. If you’re looking for an OTR microwave, it’s important to know what to look for and how to choose the right one for your needs.
0 Comments