Consumer Guide to Microwave Ovens

Types

• You'll find three different types of microwave ovens. A countertop microwave is best in kitchens that have a lot of counter space and fit in most microwave cabinets or carts. Over-the-range microwaves, or OTRs, are built above a range under cabinets and are vented to the outside or re-circulated. Built-in microwaves are installed within custom cabinetry or over counters to give you more counter space and usually don't have finished sides, since they won't be seen.

Features

• Microwaves are made with different features. Depending on the size, some microwaves may have a power rating of 850 to 1,650 watts or 600 to 800 watts. You'll find microwaves with a sensor that can determine when food is done, to prevent it from over or under cooking. Microwaves may have automatic settings for heating, cooking and defrosting food.

  Microwaves will either have a numeric keypad or a dial for setting cooking times and power levels. Some microwaves have a turntable that rotates the food, a tray that slides from side to side or removable racks to allow you to heat more than one thing at the same time. Other features may include multilingual function keys and a child lock so that kids can't activate the buttons.

Pros of Each Type

• Countertop microwaves are typically less expensive that built-in and over-the-range microwaves. In addition to being less expensive, countertop microwaves can be moved so cleaning around it is simple.

  The best part about having an over-the-range microwave is that it doesn't take up any space on your counter, which is especially important if you don't have a lot of counter space.

  Like over-the-range microwaves, built-in microwaves don't take up any space on your counter and allow you to have a range hood.

Cons of Each Type

• The disadvantage of countertop microwave ovens, although inexpensive, is that some larger models can take up about three square feet of counter space. This would not be a good choice if you don't have a lot of counter space in your kitchen.

  The cons of both over-the-range and built-in microwaves is that they generally cost more than countertop microwaves. Additionally, you'll probably need to pay an electrician to install both types.

Considerations

• You have to consider several other things before buying a microwave. When deciding on a microwave based on its features, think about the special features that are available and whether you'll be using those features. You might be paying more for a microwave with features that you won't be using. Take into consideration that a power rating with a difference of about 100 watts won't matter much. Consider the capacity and the size of the interior of the microwave to make sure that it suits your needs.