Mini Microwave Overview

The microwave oven called “mini” is the most common microwave oven and differs from its counterparts only in a few basic parameters: dimensions, power and power consumption. Most often, small microwaves are selected in cases where it is necessary to fit the device in a small kitchen space. Let's take a closer look at what this type of kitchen appliances is.

What are small microwaves

The principle of operation of small microwaves is no different from traditional. This is the selection of microwaves and their discharge with the help of a fan located in a special section (next to the food chamber). As the name suggests, in the mini microwaves the emphasis is placed on the dimensions of the device with the maximum preservation of the basic functionality.So, this type of device is conventionally divided. in two kinds:

1. Microwave solos. Everything is simple here: these devices can only be used to heat food to a predetermined temperature, since they do not have other hardware features. This simplification of the design allows to produce devices of really small size (there are models, the volume of the chamber of which is slightly more than 8 liters). The use of such small-sized devices is important in office premises or in case of having children (when it is necessary to warm something up very quickly, for example, drinks, juices, mixes, etc.). For obvious reasons, for the sake of size, it was necessary to sacrifice the pallet rotation system, however, in order to warm up a cup of coffee or a bottle of juice, it is not required.
   
2. Microwave small sizehaving a complete set of features. Such devices, in addition to the classic heating of food, can defrost food and bake dishes with a crust. More technically advanced models are even equipped grill function. Is it convenient to use a tiny camera for defrosting, (for example, meat), the question is separate, we'll talk about it a little later.For small dimensions, it is necessary to “fork out”, as a rule, devices with full functionality are much more expensive than their (larger) counterparts.
   

The remaining differences will somehow fall into either of these two types. Microwave solos are cheaper, easier to maintain and less likely to break due to their simple tooling. The version with more advanced filling is suitable for wider use, but it costs much more. In addition, its functionality is not always appropriate due to a number of design constraints.

How to choose

So, having dealt with the fact that such a small microwave, let us consider in more detail the features of the choice of such devices. What should pay attention first of all when buying this unit?

1. It is necessary to clearly define the fact what type mini-microwaves are necessary for you: a microwave oven solo or a full-fledged device with additional functions. In many ways, further purchase will depend on it.
2. You need to understand that due to the limited dimensions, you will have to accept certain design features.For example, the function of “defrosting” in such devices may require a little more time, therefore, choosing a mini microwave, you should consider this option as an additional, not the main one.
3. A very important point, which in no case should not be discounted, is power devices. The principle is simple: the more, the better, but due to the small size, you will have to pay more for this performance increase. If you are not confused by the surcharge for compact dimensions, then you should choose a powerful machine, this will allow you to gain time spent on cooking.
4. Chamber volume for products. As mentioned above, the smallest microwave oven has a volume of just over 8 liters. That's enough except to warm up a cup of coffee or brew a small bag of instant soup. If you plan to use the device only for the preparation (heating) of drinks, then 8.5 liters will be enough. If cooking is planned in the microwave (albeit the simplest), then the volume of the food chamber should be much larger, 10-15 liters.However, the larger the volume, the larger the fan bay will be, respectively, the dimensions of the entire device will grow, and this will reduce the overall advantages to a minimum. It is important to remember the feasibility and balance of convenience and functionality.
5. Power cord length. The smaller it is, the better. Mini-microwave with a long cord will take more space, moreover, due to insufficient weight, it may loosely adhere to the surface of the table (or shelf) on which it will stand. The shorter the cord, the better. If necessary, you can always use an extension cord.

What else to look for when choosing

The mini-format microwave oven is convenient to use, but it has a number of features, not knowing that you can greatly darken the joy of buying. When purchasing a device, pay special attention on the tightness of the door to the body. Due to the small size, the doors of some models may not close tightly enough, it would be better if it turned out before the purchase, so as not to resort to returning the faulty device.

As a rule, in addition to the protective screen, plastic of the most modern components is used in the doors of mini microwaves, providing an adequate level of protection. In budget decisions, the quality of plastic can be significantly lower. However, all devices, entering the market, pass the appropriate certification, therefore, acquiring the device, the buyer has the right to count on the necessary minimum. The fault may be only in the lack of tightness of the door.

If the device has not only the function of heating, you should try out all the possibilities in the first days of operation, to make sure that they work.

Even if the "defrost" function does not cope with its task from the first time, you should not immediately carry the device back to the store. In the case of mini-microwaves, a banal setting of a higher temperature can help. However, one should not expect any culinary delights from a compact microwave oven, yet its main function remains fast warming up food.

A compact microwave microwave oven can please its owner for a long time, without bringing trouble, but in some cases there are problems with the control unit.

This is due to the fact that, due to space saving, many spare parts are adjacent to each other rather tightly, which can lead to a short circuit or simply burnout of individual elements (due to ingress of food or moisture during operation). Of course, in this case begins bad work the whole block. This feature, though not often, but makes itself felt in the mini-microwave ovens. As a rule, such damage occurs during the warranty period, while the device can still be returned under the factory warranty.

At first, after purchase, it is worthwhile to pay more attention to the device, to pay attention to all the features of its work. If there are any doubts about its health, it is best to contact the service center or the manufacturer’s hotline number.

Conclusion

We can say that small microwaves are a kind of trend in compact kitchens. They are comfortable, take up very little space and look aesthetically pleasing and modern. Having knowledge of some features of the device and operating rules, you can be sure that the device will last a long time and will not cause trouble.