Microwaves

Modern microwave ovens – the safety and new opportunities

Microwave ovens have become indispensable kitchen helpers, functioning at the expense of high-frequency electromagnetic radiation. Microwave oscillations are generated by a magnetron - the main part in the form of a vacuum electric lamp. Because of this principle of action, rumors spread about the harm to health, but their unfoundedness has been proven by WHO studies. Modern technology has the necessary protection so that microwaves do not pass through a tightly closed door and do not pose any danger.

Besides, the microwave oven is quite light and compact, unlike the first developments, the weight of which reached 300 kg, and the height was more than 1.5 m. Its another key advantage is versatility. Electrical appliances produced today can work not only in the mode of rapid heating and defrosting. They are able to cook, replace the steamer, crockpot, as well as an oven as a whole, being fully adapted to current needs. With their help, you can greatly facilitate the preparation of your favorite dishes and get whole culinary masterpieces, experiment and diversify the menu without any problems.

All existing models of microwave ovens are divided into following four types:

conventional (solo) - the simplest and most budget version of the microwave without additional programs, which only heats up cooked food and defrosts products. Its main advantages is low price, low maintenance, a minimum set of only the necessary options and absolute ease of use;
with a grill - indispensable for lovers of the fragrant crispy crust and appetizing pastries, they come with a heating element (a spiral heating element inside the main chamber) or with a ceramic (quartz) grill built into the upper part of the body (is covered with a metal mesh, does not reduce the usable volume, does not complicate the cleaning);
with convection - a kind of fan is mounted in the back wall, dispersing hot air in a circle for uniform processing of contents, a worthy alternative to ovens and expanding the list of recipes. In such microwave ovens you can easily cook soups, bake fish and meat, bake pies, cakes and cook many more goodies. Some models have multiple fans, guaranteeing a particularly high quality of cooking;
with grill and convection – These models are multifunctional, due to the combination of a basic functionality with two additional modes and more expensive ones, focused on demanding users and opening up wide possibilities.

A variety of microwave ovens in the DISCOUNTER catalog

The online store presents numerous models, among which can be find a solution for every modern kitchen. Most microwave ovens are made in traditional white, black and gray colors, they are universal and harmoniously fit into any interior. If you want to add bright colors to gray everyday life, a green, blue, orange or, for example, red option will help to getting out of the classics. The shape is predominantly rectangular, but there are also square modifications, and with rounded corners, and with a rounded upper surface. The control panel is located most often on the side, less often on the top or bottom. The central part of the door is usually transparent or translucent, rectangular or oval. A variety of design proposals have, all famous brands such as:

Samsung
LG
Gorenje
Toshiba
Electrolux,
Whirlpool,
Ardesto

The scope of microwave ovens covers both the household and professional areas. Varieties for catering establishments are in demand in canteens, cafes and restaurants, they are distinguished by a larger load volume, high power, and an impressive set of useful options. In addition to traditional ones, inverter electrical appliances are produced. Their feature is an advanced design with an inverter - a DC converter for the power control and regulation. They have a smooth and gentle effect, retaining more nutrients and improving the taste of food. Since the inverting element is much smaller than the transformer through which the magnetron is fed in conventional models, the appliance win in size and weight.

What to consider when buying a microwave

Careful selection of parameters allows to buy a microwave oven exactly according to ones needs. The dimensions (width, depth and height) directly are depend on the capacity, as well as how many servings will be heated or cooked at the same time. Minimum 10-15 liters is considered to be the quite enough for one person, similar value for a small family – is up to 20-23 liters, for three or four people - is from 25 to 28 liters. Large models with a volume of more than 28 liters are often installed in catering facilities. Another key selection criterion is the power, which varies between 450-1680 watts. The more powerful are units, the faster they cope with the task, but consume an increasing amount of power. Also, an important role is played by the installation method of microwave ovens and theirs opening specific features:

free-standing - they do not need to be harmonized to the furniture, they can be placed on the table or in the provided niche, are easy to carry when permutation or removed for long-term storage, do not cause problems with cleaning;
built-in microwaves - they are selected at the kitchen design stage, taking into account a specific location, they create a single, harmonious composition with all elements and help save space, are work not so loudly due to better sound insulation;
with the handle and the hinged door – they are without a separate locking device, with the usual mechanical latch, to open it to the side, need to pull the handle;
with the button and the folding door - for opening there is a special button on the front panel, after pressing which the sash automatically leans back towards itself.

Special attention when buying microwave ovens should be paid to the control. The simplest, most affordable and most reliable modifications are equipped with buttons and mode switches. The touchpad without protruding parts is surpasses mechanics with its aesthetics, precision of settings and programming, besides, it does not accumulate dirt. Another important characteristics are the internal coating:

enamel - is a very common material due to its low cost, it is easy to clean, but requires regular maintenance and is prone to scratches;
stainless steel - is considered the most lasting and durable, being resistant to mechanical stress and high temperatures, more difficult to clean, easily absorbs odors, leaves stubborn stains;
ceramics – is the scratch-resistant, easily washed out, vulnerable to shock, therefore, requires careful handling;
bioceramic enamel - is incredibly durable, retains heat well, has antibacterial properties, is highly susceptible to the mechanical stress.

Different microwave ovens have their own features. For example, exists with a display and backlight, quick start, non-stick coating and a flat tray, with an oven and steam cleaning functions. In the package may include accessories such as a fat tray, a lattice for plates, a plastic cover to protect against splashes. A detailed description, photos and reviews will help you choose the best microwave that will suit all parameters. If you still have questions, please contact our experts for qualified advice.