The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, and even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat up snacks and leftovers, or to defrost meals..
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What is the best wattage for a microwave?
A 1,000-watt microwave will cook quickly and efficiently, so that’s a great baseline. Microwaves with 700 watts or less are slower and may not cook evenly. In general, the higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time.
How long do OTR microwaves last?
An over-the-range microwave will usually last about 10 years, depending on how well it’s maintained. Keeping the interior clean by wiping it down after spills helps extend its life. Make sure to use the fan when cooking on the stovetop to prevent moisture from building up on the microwave’s components.
What size over-the-range microwave do I need?
Microwave Sizes Chart
| Type of Microwave | Height (in.) | Width (in.) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard and Large Microwaves | Height (in.) 12″ – 15″ | Width (in.) 21″ – 25″ |
| Over-the-Range Microwave | Height (in.) 17″ 10″ (low profile) | Width (in.) 30″ 24″ (compact) |
| Built-In Microwave | Height (in.) 17″ – 22″ | Width (in.) 24″, 27″ or 30″ |
What is a good price for a microwave?
Countertop microwaves usually cost less than the other types. Small models start as low as $50, and midsized models are typically in the $100 to $300 range. Over-the-range microwaves, or OTRs, can be had for as little as $200, but most we test cost $400 and up.
Do I need to vent my microwave?
There is no requirement that your Over The Range (OTR) Microwave be vented to the outdoors. All OTR microwave ovens can be set up to either allow the fan to recirculate the air back into the kitchen or be vented to the outdoors.
Is it worth getting a microwave with a grill?
Combination microwaves go beyond the features of a solo microwave and may act as a regular oven. By using the additional internal grill alongside the normal microwave function, your food will be browned and crisped as well as cooked, giving it a superior appearance and texture.
Are Toshiba microwaves good?
Yes, buy it. The Toshiba Microwave Oven checks all of our boxes. It offers 1100 watts of power, a one-touch start feature, an easy-to-clean interior, and a sleek, smudge-resistant exterior. If you’re in the market for a reliable microwave, we highly recommend it.
How much does home Depot charge to install over the range microwave? Home Depot microwave installation cost
Over-the-range microwave installation from Home Depot costs $100 for replacements. Replacing an old range hood with an over-the-range microwave costs $400. Hauling away and disposing of the old microwave costs $25. Delivery costs $60* or is free with purchases over $400.
What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?
6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Microwave
- Smoke, sparks, and burning smells. These are signs of a serious and urgent problem.
- Food isn’t cooking properly.
- It makes horrible sounds as it cooks.
- The door doesn’t seal properly.
- The keypad doesn’t function.
- It’s over 10 years old.
What to look for in a microwave over-the-range?
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Over-the-Range Microwave
- Size. Over-the-range microwaves come in different widths.
- Wattage. The optimal wattage for an over-the-range microwave oven is between 900 and 1,000 watts.
- Settings.
- Control Panel.
- Smart Technology.
- Convection Heating.
- Exhaust Functionality.
- Additional Features.
Are microwaves worth repairing?
If your microwave is relatively new and the repair costs less than replacing it, the fix is worth it. But are microwaves worth repairing if something major is broken? Probably not. Consider getting a replacement appliance for about $100, which should work for 7 to 10 years.
Are new microwaves better than old?
New microwaves run more efficiently, and feature an enhanced standby mode that will further reduce your power bills. Efficiency: Not only does this power efficiency reduce your power bills, it also reduces the time it takes to actually cook the food. You can’t put a price on your time!
Are Whirlpool microwaves any good?
Whirlpool was one of the most reliable over-the-range microwave brands in our latest reliability survey, with few CR members reporting breakages before five years of use.
How much does it cost to replace over the range microwave? Over-the-range microwave installation costs $100 to $300 for a standard replacement. The average cost of built-in microwave installation is $220 to $580. A handyman or electrician charges $50 to $100 per hour for labor. A new microwave costs $100 to $600.
Microwave installation cost.
| National average cost | $150 |
|---|---|
| Average range | $100 to $400 |
How much does it cost to replace a magnetron in a microwave? Replacing a microwave magnetron costs $100 to $200. This includes a part price of $50 to $100 and $50 to $100 for labor. A magnetron is the primary component that produces heat for the appliance.
Why do microwave magnetrons fail? The most common cause of an overheating magnetron is when too much energy is reflected back into the device. This can happen when you run your microwave empty (something you should never do), or if the turntable has been removed.
Is a 20 year old microwave safe?
If you take good care of your microwave up into its old age, there’s a low risk of harm, but if it’s damaged in any way you may want to get it checked out. If you’ve looked after it well, there’s no reason why a vintage microwave should be dangerous.
How can I tell if my microwave is leaking radiation?
Call the phone inside the microwave.
If you hear no ring, your microwave is not leaking radiation. If you hear a ring, your microwave is leaking radiation, assuming the settings on your phone are correct. It’s highly unlikely that your leaking microwave is a danger to your health.
Is it worth repairing an over the range microwave?
Because they are built-in, over-the-range microwaves may be worth repairing, especially if the unit is less than two or three years old (and, of course, if it is protected by a service warranty). The accessibility of the unit affects the repair cost, however.
Do microwave ovens get weaker with age?
A microwave oven’s power diminishes over time because its magnetron tube weakens. A magnetron tube is a high-voltage system that uses magnetic and electrical fields to create the oscillating waves that bounce around the oven and heat food. It is the source of a microwave oven’s energy and power.
Is it worth fixing a microwave that won’t heat?
If your microwave is relatively new and the repair costs less than replacing it, the fix is worth it. But are microwaves worth repairing if something major is broken? Probably not. Consider getting a replacement appliance for about $100, which should work for 7 to 10 years.
Are over the range microwaves a good idea?
One of the biggest benefits of an over-the-range microwave is that it also doubles as a vent, essentially functioning as two appliances in one. This is the perfect solution for the average home cook, but for people who do professional cooking in their home kitchens, an over-the-range microwave might not cut it.
How much does it cost to install over the range microwave?
Over-the-range microwave installation costs $100 to $300 for a standard replacement. The average cost of built-in microwave installation is $220 to $580. A handyman or electrician charges $50 to $100 per hour for labor. A new microwave costs $100 to $600.
Microwave installation cost.
| National average cost | $150 |
|---|---|
| Average range | $100 to $400 |
How far should over the range microwave stick out? The typical recommendation is to have 30 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the cabinet and at least 13-1/2 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the microwave.
