With your busy schedule, every moment matters, and finding ways to save time in the kitchen can give you more minutes to spend relaxing and enjoying your leisure time. Microwaves are one way to make cooking quicker and easier, and Ace has a wide range of large and small microwave oven models available from brands like Avanti, making it just as simple to find the right appliance for you.
Understanding Microwave Technology
Microwave ovens revolutionized cooking by using electromagnetic waves to heat food from the inside out. Unlike conventional ovens that rely on heating elements and thermal conduction, microwaves use a magnetron to generate waves that cause water molecules in food to vibrate rapidly. This molecular friction creates heat throughout the food simultaneously, which helps to explain why microwave cooking is so much faster than traditional methods.
Choosing the Right Microwave Size
Finding the perfect microwave starts with evaluating your available space and cooking needs.
- Small microwaves and mini microwaves work wonderfully in apartments, offices or anywhere counter space is limited. These compact models typically range from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet and handle basic tasks like reheating beverages and warming single servings.
- Standard countertop models offer 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet of cooking space, providing enough room for dinner plates and medium-sized dishes.
Microwave Installation Options for Every Kitchen
Modern kitchens demand flexibility, and today's microwave ovens deliver with multiple installation options:
- Over the stove microwave models combine cooking convenience with space-saving ventilation
- Built-in microwave oven designs integrate seamlessly with cabinetry for a custom appearance
- Freestanding countertop models offer portability and simple plug-in installation for immediate use
Unsure which is right for you? Stop by your local Ace where our knowledgeable associates can help you choose based on your needs and product availability.
What Wattage Microwave Do I Need?
Microwave wattage directly impacts cooking speed and efficiency. Models ranging from 700 to 900 watts work well for basic reheating and simple cooking tasks. For faster cooking and better results with frozen foods, consider models with 1000 watts or higher.
Essential Features to Consider
Many microwaves have special features, with some proving more useful to your needs. Consider models with:
- Sensor cooking technology that automatically adjusts time and power levels based on steam emissions from your food
- Multi-stage cooking that allows you to program different power levels for various cooking phases
- Express cooking buttons that let you add 30 seconds or one minute with a single touch
- Preset programs to take the guesswork out of preparing popcorn, potatoes and frozen dinners
Shop Microwave Ovens at Ace
Whether you need a simple mini microwave for occasional use or a sophisticated built-in model with advanced features, find the right microwave oven near you at Ace Hardware. Our knowledgeable associates can help you choose between models and recommend complementary small appliances like toasters for your kitchen.
From food and beverage essentials to canning supplies and novelty items, Ace has a wide selection of home necessities to choose from.
