Page 2 of 2
All About Ovens
Microwave ovens
Foods cook quickly with high-frequency microwaves, but they don't brown. Some models offer a separate browning element; other built-ins combine microwave with radiant and/or convection cooking. Microwave models range from subcompacts (about .5 cubic foot) up to full size (1 cubic foot or bigger). Most units are hinged on the left.
Microwaves can be placed on a counter, built into cabinetry, or pur-chased as part of a double wall oven or double oven range. You might even consider two microwaves -- one small, portable unit near the refrigerator or breakfast nook for quick warming, the second in a bank of wall ovens. When possible, mount the microwave so its bottom is 24 to 48 inches off the floor.
Some models, specially designed to be installed above a range (under-neath wall cabinets), incorporate a vent and cooking lights; these are wider (30 inches) and shallower (13 to 17 inches deep). Some designers frown on over-the-cooktop placement because it's potentially hazardous when burners below are in use.
Microwave features include memory bank, programmable cooking, timers, temperature probe, rotisserie, and electronic sensors (these auto-matically calculate cooking time and power levels). However, if you use a microwave primarily to heat coffee or convenience foods, you can probably bypass these bells and whistles.
Foods cook quickly with high-frequency microwaves, but they don't brown. Some models offer a separate browning element; other built-ins combine microwave with radiant and/or convection cooking. Microwave models range from subcompacts (about .5 cubic foot) up to full size (1 cubic foot or bigger). Most units are hinged on the left.
Microwaves can be placed on a counter, built into cabinetry, or pur-chased as part of a double wall oven or double oven range. You might even consider two microwaves -- one small, portable unit near the refrigerator or breakfast nook for quick warming, the second in a bank of wall ovens. When possible, mount the microwave so its bottom is 24 to 48 inches off the floor.
Some models, specially designed to be installed above a range (under-neath wall cabinets), incorporate a vent and cooking lights; these are wider (30 inches) and shallower (13 to 17 inches deep). Some designers frown on over-the-cooktop placement because it's potentially hazardous when burners below are in use.
Microwave features include memory bank, programmable cooking, timers, temperature probe, rotisserie, and electronic sensors (these auto-matically calculate cooking time and power levels). However, if you use a microwave primarily to heat coffee or convenience foods, you can probably bypass these bells and whistles.
