Diamond’s Microwave Shopping Guide

Since the 1970s, Americans have enjoyed the convenience of cooking and reheating food using a microwave. Since these appliances became common in homes over fifty years ago, advances in technology have allowed microwaves to take center stage in kitchens nationwide.

When your microwave breaks down, a microwave repair specialist like our team at Diamond Appliance can often diagnose and fix the issue at an affordable rate. However, with Black Friday and the holiday season fast approaching, many consumers may find themselves in the market for a new microwave. If it has been a while since you last purchased a microwave, this shopping guide can help provide an idea of what to consider before making a purchase.

Consider Overall Quality

When shopping for a microwave, consumers will find that every make and model has a unique combination of size, features, power, and price. While individuals may prefer one particular feature (such as maximum power) above the others, many customers want a solid balance of everything.

Many manufacturers, including Whirlpool, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, and GE, deliver on all-around quality, plus extra perks a user may never even know they wanted. For example, a mute button eliminates any beeping when the cooking cycle is done. A customizable express button lets users preset a cooking time and power level that fits their needs.

If you have ever microwaved a frozen burrito or hand pie, you may have experienced a lukewarm outer crust and a scalding hot filling. That is because microwaves cook primarily by heating the water molecules in food, and there is often more water in the filling than the outer crust. To combat this issue, some models include a smart sensor that detects the humidity level in the food and adjusts the cook time and power level accordingly.

Convection Microwaves

If kitchen counter space is limited, convection microwaves like those manufactured by Whirlpool and KitchenAid can be a great option for shoppers. By combining a microwave, toaster oven, convection oven, and air fryer all within the same unit, convection microwaves suit a variety of cooking styles.

Convection microwaves tend to be more expensive than traditional types, primarily because they incorporate many different functions. One added benefit of these styles of microwave is that they often use inverter technology to cook food. While traditional microwaves cook food by pulsing on and off at a set temperature, inverters allow a microwave to adjust the cooking temperature throughout the cooking cycle. This tends to result in food that is more evenly heated throughout.

Smart Microwaves

Smart home technology has advanced significantly in the last decade, leading to a variety of affordable ways to connect with our appliances through our home’s WiFi network. Manufacturers such as Whirlpool sell a line of smart microwaves that allow users complete control of their appliance through an app on their smartphone or tablet.

While the use of an app may not be very practical for quickly reheating some leftovers or a cup of coffee, these appliances also include convection cooking options as well, which comes in handy for larger and more complex dishes.

Essential Features

With all of the advances in microwave technology, consumers’ attention can easily be pulled away from the  essential features that should be considered before making a purchase. For example, turntables rotate food and allow for more even cooking. While some turntables are removable, others are not. This can lead to additional hassle when cleaning the appliance.

Size is another feature that consumers should be aware of. While a top of the line model may contain all of the features a shopper wants, it is ultimately pointless if the appliance cannot fit anywhere in the kitchen. Take note of the sizing of your current appliance, and take careful measurements if you intend to place your new microwave in a different location.

Shoppers can quickly become overwhelmed by the features and options available in today’s microwaves. Some shoppers may want the latest in smart home technology while others prefer solid overall performance. By carefully considering what you want and need out of your new microwave, the best model for your needs will be much easier to find.

If you’re not quite ready to purchase a new model and are in need of microwave repair, call Diamond Appliance of St. Louis and Kansas City. We proudly service microwaves from brands including Whirlpool, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, GE, and more, for customers just like you across the region. Give us a call today.