If you decide to change your old microwave oven for a new one, then the variety of models today will pleasantly surprise you. Microwaves with convection are currently the most widespread (reviews about them are only positive). But before purchasing such a model, let's first understand: convection in a microwave oven, what is it all about.
Working principle
The very concept of "convection" implies the transfer of heat by means of circular movements of heated air. This method of transferring thermal energy is used not only in household appliances, this method is very relevant in large enterprises, in the industry.
Convection microwave ovens allow you to not only reheat or defrost food. In such ovens, you can cook delicious pastries, bake fish or meat.
Many models of microwave ovens allow you to use the device in several modes: standard (in which you can only heat or defrost food) or combined (in this mode, you can also fully cook or bake food in the microwave).
Eatcombined microwave with convection and grill. Pretty functional home appliance. With this oven, you can even cook juicy grilled ribs.
Main differences
For the correct and optimal choice of a microwave oven model, it is important to know what are the main differences between this device and similar devices. It is worth noting that conventional microwave ovens heat food using infrared radiation. New generation microwave ovens don't just heat food with infrared rays, they use convection to cook food deliciously.
In addition, convection microwave ovens (customer reviews confirm this) are larger and have higher power consumption. They are equipped with an additional fan and a special element that heats the air. These components are located on the back wall or at the top of the microwave.
Because of this, the oven has a significant size and greater weight than its counterparts with a simpler device. But on the other hand, it has additional functions that allow you to cook and bake in it.
Thanks to the convection method of using heat, all products are well fried and baked, and a tender crispy crust is obtained during the cooking of poultry. If we talk about cooking time, then it will have to be spent much less when compared with the time it takes to cook meat in the oven. Thanks to the convection function, an ordinary microwave oven turns into a full-fledged oven.
Selection Options
You should definitely familiarize yourself with the main characteristics of a device that has a convection mode. In a microwave with this principle of operation, there is one significant flaw - it consumes a lot of electricity.
Therefore, first of all, attention should be paid to the power indicator of the device. If the oven is additionally equipped with a grill, then the values of its value in the passport of the device will be indicated for the grill, for the operation of the stove in normal mode and for the operation of the device in convection mode. Naturally, during the operation of the convection mode, the device will consume maximum electricity.
For example, when operating in normal mode, the power of the device will be 900W, while during convection mode, the power will be about 2500W.
Pay attention to the coating of the inner chamber. If you plan to cook meat or poultry in the appliance, you will definitely need to clean it. It is desirable that the coating of the chamber be made of stainless steel or bioceramic.
The best option is the ceramic inner chamber. True, and the cost of such a device will be somewhat more expensive. The fact is that ceramics are much easier to clean than coatings made of other materials. In addition, such a surface is more resistant to soot. It is very good if the oven has an automatic cleaning option. With it, you can easily remove odors from the ovenafter cooking meat or fish.
Safety
So now you can answer the question: "Microwave convection: what is it?" - and, accordingly, decide whether you need it. If the answer is yes, then make sure it is installed correctly.
Carefully read the passport that comes with the device. Be sure to consider the capabilities of your electrical wiring. When using powerful appliances in private homes, the wiring is sometimes quite weak and may simply not withstand such a large load. Therefore, there is a risk that traffic jams in the house will be constantly “cut down”.
Grounding
Usually, in the passport of the device, manufacturers indicate recommendations for installing the device. The need for grounding when connecting a convection oven is one of them. This is due to the fact that such powerful devices must be grounded in order to avoid accidents. It's up to you to decide here, but it is advisable not to ignore the manufacturer's instructions and once again protect yourself.
Installation
Before you go to the store to buy a convection microwave oven, think about where you will put it. Remember that such devices are rather large, and there must be enough free space around the oven.
A convection microwave oven must have air access from all sides. Installation of the device close to the wall is also prohibited. Do not place any objects on top of the appliance, because during the processcooking, it can get very hot. Ignoring such simple requirements can lead to the fact that your device will fail prematurely.
Lack of free space can cause the appliance to simply overheat and burn out. Objects left on top of the stove can generally ignite from high temperatures, and this is a direct path to a fire.
Operation
Mode "convection in the microwave", what it is, you know, so try to operate the device correctly and follow the basic rules. After each cooking, the oven should be cleaned or wiped with a damp sponge. It will be easier for you to get rid of dirt and soot in the device immediately after cooking. If the dirt is too strong, use only special cleaners that do not scratch the surface. Do not use products that contain alkali.
Try to follow the instructions recommended by the manufacturer. Use special utensils and do not experiment. As practice shows, experiments with such devices only lead to their rapid failure.
Additional features
When choosing a specific microwave oven model, pay attention to a number of additional functions in the device. Convection in the microwave (what it is, you already know) provides a number of advantages. And it's not just the built-in grill. For example, some models are equipped with a function to clean the inner chamber with steam. LG convection microwave ovenhas built-in steamer options.
Some models can be used to cook two dishes at the same time, operating modes can be combined, and programs for automatic cooking can also be used. The timer function allows you to set the time for the oven to turn on, so that in the morning you can expect a delicious hot breakfast in the kitchen. In some models, not only the automatic start of the cooking program is provided, but it is also possible to reheat or defrost food in automatic mode.
If you have small children in your family, be sure to purchase a device that is equipped with such an option as blocking the device from children. If we talk about the appearance of devices, then almost everyone has a unique design and style. This microwave will look perfect in any kitchen.
When choosing, pay attention to the display of the device. It can be a fully digital panel or manual adjustment of cooking modes. There are models that have built-in recipes for cooking certain dishes. All that is required of you is to enter the weight, type of product and set the timer.
By the way, when choosing an oven model, be sure to consider the volume of the cooking chamber. This parameter can reach up to 40 liters. In such an oven, it will be easy to bake even a whole goose or a large duck for any holiday. Microwave with convection and grill, with a chamber volume of about 40 liters, will be an ideal option for a large family who loves to celebrate all the holidaysat home.
Results
If we summarize all the information about this device, then convection in the microwave (what it is, you already know) will be an ideal option for housewives who simply love to cook, but are experiencing a catastrophic lack of time. A convection microwave not only speeds up the process of preparing various dishes, and without any damage to their taste, but also does a lot in automatic mode.
Thanks to this device, you can afford to sleep an extra half an hour in the morning. Agree, it's so nice to lie in bed longer, knowing that when you wake up, a hot breakfast or hot buns for coffee will surely be waiting for you in the kitchen.
