Of microwave ovens and such

[Scott Douglas]

I think my wife's dream of being able to get rid of our microwave oven is about to come true.

For some reason it smells like something is burning when we use it.

We currently have an old Kenmore model that's as old as the hills. It has worked well up until now and I really like how easy it is to use.
I remember it replaced a HUGE one we got from my mom if I recall.



What is the current thinking in terms of what is a good one to get to replace this one?

This one does a nice job reheating leftovers or whatever needs melting/softening etc.

Since we haven't spent money on one in literally decades, I'm ready to get more than just a low cost one.

Suggestions?

[stevej37]

I have a Sunbeam that looks almost identical to yours.
It's hardly ever used...but it would be sadly missed if gone.

I think they are around $70 now.

[Zeke]

Microwaves are a commodity. Just go to Target and get the size that works for you.

Now, if you want to upgrade, there are some combo units that can do things.

[look 171]

Milt is correct. Throw it out the second floor window when it starts acting up. Now I only buy Sharp microwave. They are that good. If you want something simple, go to restaurant supply house. Most are made by Sharp and they have those old fashion ugly dials with a ding when done. Those do not break.

[masraum]

I think what Zeke said is correct.

I think they are all pretty much the same. If I was buying one, the only 2 requirements that I'd have (besides decent brand) is "big enough" (for a plate?), and that it's got to have a turn table.

I'm sure it's possible to get one that's expensive, but I suspect that's just a good way to get rid of more money.

But I haven't bought on in many years, so what do I know?

[Shaun @ Tru6]

Is the keypad backlit?

[stevej37]

I think they all have turntables now.
A better question is...how easy is it to keep the plate on the turntable working?

They all seem to slip off the drive.

[LEAKYSEALS951]

Radarange-

[Scott Douglas]

Here's our present one with one of our large dinner plates on the turntable. We've never had a problem with the turntable.

The buttons on the touch pad are not back lit. Only the clock LED is lit up and it sends messages when you're picking the options for cook times.

[masraum]

Originally Posted by stevej37

I think they all have turntables now.

I have used a microwave in the last 3-6 months (can't remember where/when) that did not have a turntable and I was shocked. It wasn't ancient. So they are out there.

[WPOZZZ]

Originally Posted by Scott Douglas

Here's our present one with one of our large dinner plates on the turntable. We've never had a problem with the turntable.

The buttons on the touch pad are not back lit. Only the clock LED is lit up and it sends messages when you're picking the options for cook times.

Ooh, Corelleware!

Get a micro/air fryer/convection oven. I use mine everyday.

[Baz]

I'm still using the big Kenmore I bought used in 1990!

It only has 3 settings and an on/off button......

[Scott Douglas]

We've been eating off Correlleware for over 43 years now.

Yeah, I think one of those combo ovens might be a good idea.
What brand do you have, WPOZZZ?

[herr_oberst]

My first microwave was a beast. I think it was a Litton, or an Amana. Round dials, all stainless steel in and out, a heavy door; it was built like a 58 Cadillac. I got it from a neighbor, it was probably 10 years old when he gave it to me, I gave it away about 5 or 6 years later. It worked perfectly all the time I owned it, and I wouldn't be surprised it still works now. I see that the vintage market is strong for those early microwave ovens. My current one is 10 years old, I bet it was less than 75 bucks new and it still works perfect.

[Scott Douglas]

I think our kids gave us this one for Christmas a long long time ago because they knew their mom hated the BIG one we had. It worked fine but was about twice as big as this one.

[stevej37]

When using one...be sure to cover your family jewels.
They will cook them in seconds.

[Dixie]

I have a combination air fryer/microwave. I like it.

[look 171]

You really want the Cadillac, get a steam oven. No more hard bread if you are a slow eater. Moist is on another level. Not cheap. Every few years I get an invite to and keep up with the latest and the greatest on kitchen "stuff" and design. Wolf put out a luncheon with their chef using all of their high end appliances. Fun and a pretty damn good free meal. I am sold on their steam oven or any steam oven for that matter. Now, I can't cook if my life depended on it but that moisture on their food is on another level. I don't think the family jewel has anything to worry about with these new gadgets.

[WPOZZZ]

Originally Posted by Scott Douglas

We've been eating off Correlleware for over 43 years now.

Yeah, I think one of those combo ovens might be a good idea.
What brand do you have, WPOZZZ?

I bought mine from Walmart about 5 years ago. It is the Galanz brand and is still kicking.

Originally Posted by herr_oberst

My first microwave was a beast. I think it was a Litton, or an Amana. Round dials, all stainless steel in and out, a heavy door; it was built like a 58 Cadillac. I got it from a neighbor, it was probably 10 years old when he gave it to me, I gave it away about 5 or 6 years later. It worked perfectly all the time I owned it, and I wouldn't be surprised it still works now. I see that the vintage market is strong for those early microwave ovens. My current one is 10 years old, I bet it was less than 75 bucks new and it still works perfect.

My house still has a Tappan built-in that looks like an oven. Mom used it to heat up my formula. Dad bought another Tappan back in 1975 and that thing was like 70 lbs!

[wdfifteen]

Originally Posted by look 171

Milt is correct. Throw it out the second floor window when it starts acting up. Now I only buy Sharp microwave. They are that good. If you want something simple, go to restaurant supply house. Most are made by Sharp and they have those old fashion ugly dials with a ding when done. Those do not break.

We got one of those for the office 20 years ago. It went with the business when we sold it. They tell me it’s still working.