Along with refrigerators and stoves, microwave ovens have been one of the most popular kitchen appliances for over 50 years. Like a stove, they are used to heat and cook food.
Their operation principle is very simple. Its magnetron converts AC 50Hz electric current into high-frequency electromagnetic waves that are directed at food. The dishes with food are placed on a rotating table-stand in the cooking cavity, which ensures uniform heat treatment.
Physically, the heating food is carried out due to the dielectric heating of polar molecules. The electric component of the electromagnetic wave accelerates the movement of dipole molecules, which is accompanied by an increase in their temperature. Simply put, microwaves affect the moisture molecules in the products, causing them to vibrate with the release of heat. Therefore, products with a high water content, for example, soups or fresh vegetables, heat up faster.
About 20 years ago, some experts initiated a debate about the safety of food prepared using microwave ovens. However, the adherents of this concept could not bring serious arguments and it came to naught.
But powerful electromagnetic radiation can be dangerous. Therefore, manufacturers use very reliable screening. In particular, the door is made of laminated glass with a metallized screen and an electromagnetic shutter around the perimeter. Some inquisitive consumers tested its reliability with a mobile phone, placing it in the chamber. Indeed, a closed door reliably blocks the signal and the phone does not accept the call.
The modern market is filled with different models. Therefore, even a simplified classification can be useful for the optimal choice.
Depending on the type, capacity, additional functions and brand, their price varies from $ 50 to $ 200. Functionally, microwaves are divided into ‘Solo’, ‘Grill’ and ‘Convection’ models.
Key Features
The budget-friendly basic Solo type provides defrosting, reheating and cooking without baking or roasting.
As the name suggests, the grill microwave oven supports a grilling function. Often these models have cooking times and precise temperature control functions. It’s ideal for lovers of kebabs and sandwiches.
As a heater, they use a TEN (tubular electric heater) or a quartz grill (glass tube with a quartz heater), which provides more uniform heating.
Convection microwave ovens are the most versatile. They use hot air and powerful fan for uniform heat treatment.
The convection model allows the cook to bake, roast and make a crust. Together with a tabletop cooker, it completely replaces a traditional stove with an oven, which is especially convenient for a small kitchen. In addition, these models are usually compatible with nonstick cookware.
The capacity of microwave ovens ranges from under 20 litres for compact models to 20-30 litres. Power affects cooking time and varies from 700 to 1200 watts.
Features:
– pre-set programs – microwaves often come with pre-set cooking programs for popular dishes, including popcorn, pizza, vegetables, etc. In fact, such program has settings for cooking time and power level;
– sensor cooking – moisture control in food, adjusting cooking time and power;
– buttons for quick reheating or starting a cooking program;
– preheat and defrost options – обычно microwaves use grill or convection heating elements;
– turntable ensure uniform heat treatment due to rotation;
– racks are designed for simultaneous preparation of several dishes.
– inverter technology – precise power control;
– child lock – prevents accidental operation;
– keep warm function – heating with a minimal power;
– smart features – Wi-Fi connectivity;
– interior light for visual control.
Conclusions
Of course, a microwave oven makes work in the kitchen much easier. Considering the relatively low prices, the convection models seem to be a more preferable choice. In addition, a convection microwave oven allows a modern person to refuse a rather bulky and expensive stove with an oven. This solution is especially relevant for a small kitchen. However, the Solo and Grill versions are ideal for students and newlyweds.
The video introduces Hisense inverter microwave ovens.