Six Microwave Features
Operating the microwave may not pose as a problem for people who are always in touch with what is the latest in technology be it a kitchen appliance, a bedroom appliance or even computers and cellular phones. But for those who are considered old school individuals, they might find a microwave too complex to be operated. To solve this problem, it is best to consider the microwave oven's features when buying. Here are some of the common features found in microwave ovens.
1. Interlocks. The microwave is not supposed to run or work when the lid is open. If it does, then it might be missing one key feature and that is the interlock.
The interlock works by keeping the microwave oven on standby mode when the lid is open. Some microwaves have one interlock while others have two or three more.
In reality, only one interlock is used but the rest will serve as a backup in case the primary interlock fails. Without the interlock, the microwave will function despite the fact that the lid or cover is open.
2. Turntables. This is another key feature that microwaves should have. A turntable rotates the food so that it will be heated or cooked equally. A turntable is usually a round glass plate that rotates when food is being cooked.
Most microwaves have round turntables but the latest models have rectangular ones. These rectangular or circular plates are usually removable; however, it is best not to place the turntable with something else.
Without the turntable, food will unevenly cook and you may have to stop the oven several times in order to turn the plate in another direction. Turntables constantly turn hence assuring that the food will be cooked evenly.
3. Power control. Well wouldn't it be great if you will be able to control how much power you will use? Keep in mind that microwaves are not only used for cooking. It is also used for reheating, baking and of course defrosting.
Some of these uses do not require much power so it would be great if you will be able to set the power at the required level. Doing this will also help reduce your power consumption and you will be able to save on electricity.
4. Sensors. This feature will keep you from opening or stopping the microwave oven prematurely and end up with undercooked food. The sensors worked by measuring the steam inside the oven. When the sensor senses enough steam signalling that the food is already cooked, it will automatically stop the oven.
No need for timers. These sensors are essential because it helps prevent overcooking and undercooking food guaranteeing you perfectly cooked food all the time.
5. Shortcut keys. Microwave ovens with shortcut keys are easier to operate because you don't have to worry about timer settings or power settings. Short cut keys are pre-programmed to cook a particular kind of food like popcorn, oatmeal, pasta and many more. Not only that, there are also short cut keys for reheating and defrosting.
Shortcut keys will surely save you the trouble from setting the time and the power level. This is very beneficial for individuals who barely know how to operate a microwave and rely mostly on pre-programmed settings.
6. Child safety lock. Always keep your child safe. We all know that children are very curious and have the tendency to grab anything they see without hesitation. Hot pots and pans can burn your child's hand if they grab it right out of the microwave oven. Remember that children may not have any idea as to how hot the microwave oven can get.
An oven with a child safety lock will surely keep your children from opening the lid without your knowledge. These lock are usually released using the keypad.