what to look for in microwave?

**mek42** · 06-24-2010, 09:47 PM

We need a replacement microwave. It spit out some charred material out the door a couple months ago and the cord started melting today. I don't think it is a fuse.

What do we need to consider when getting a replacement?

Thanks!

**frugalwarrior2** · 06-24-2010, 10:03 PM

Well, it's one of the things I wouldn't get used. I like the ones that spin the food so it cooks more evenly. I am not going to cook a turkey but I don't want it too tiny either. I won't spend more than about $75. I like my sharp carousel but white would not be a redo as we are too messy. Other than that I am not too picky.

**ladykemma2** · 06-24-2010, 10:47 PM

big and lots of watts

silly trivia
did you know the wavelength of a microwave is about 10 cm. you and the kids can actually measure the length of a microwave by laying a chinet plate of miniature marshmallows, with the turntable turned off, and measure the distance between hot spots (burned marshmallows).

i do this lab with my students every year.

**Russ** · 06-24-2010, 10:49 PM

Yup, what she said!

**TigerGirl1226** · 06-24-2010, 11:09 PM

Sounds silly, but take one of your dinner plates and make sure it fits.

**mek42** · 06-25-2010, 12:00 AM

Originally Posted by ladykemma2

big and lots of watts

silly trivia
did you know the wavelength of a microwave is about 10 cm. you and the kids can actually measure the length of a microwave by laying a chinet plate of miniature marshmallows, with the turntable turned off, and measure the distance between hot spots (burned marshmallows).

i do this lab with my students every year.

10 cm, huh? That's awfully big for this 190 - 400 nm guy thinking to go even smaller in the future. Wait, 10 cm? That's 0.1 wavenumbers, right? That might be below the resolution of the NIST inelastic neutron scattering station. And here I thought solid state phonons were long and slow.

I've always wondered how broad a band a microwave oven is - is it just the rotational frequencies of water or a broader source the just happens to cover water rotation?

Ok, yep, we want another carousel, taking a plate is a good idea, tyvm! While Walmart is likely the best pricing, we probably should shop around, even at our local appliance store, right? Hmmm... maybe I'll hit the ATM and try that DR waving cash thing, see if it really works, lol.

**Ali Lee** · 06-25-2010, 12:15 AM

I like the popcorn setting and turntable. Also, check how easy it is to set the clock. Just a second of electric off, need to reset the clock. I couldn't live without my microwave!

**mek42** · 06-25-2010, 12:33 AM

After unplugging the microwave we noted a little scorching on the receptacle it was plugged in to. The plug was very hot and sticky when my wife unplugged it and one of the prongs had some charred residue on it. I'm going to replace the receptacle before plugging in any replacement appliance. Debating whether to call my electrician friend and find out how much a quick look see would be to make sure only a receptacle replacement is needed.

I'm also hemming and hawing about calling the non-emergency line at the FD and asking them for an opinion either by phone or a quick stop by before bed.

**mek42** · 06-25-2010, 09:02 AM

Well, we didn't call the FD and the house didn't burn down while we slept, so the scorching was probably just too much draw somehow from the microwave. I'm going to replace the receptacle anyway for peace of mind. Just need to figure out which fuse controls that receptacle. Not sure I have enough stones or stupidity to do it hot.

**frugalwarrior2** · 06-25-2010, 09:55 AM

Where's your sense of adventure!! Just take it outside and plug it in. Put some metal in it for the 4th of July. Woohoo. Frugal.

I do also recommend the popcorn setting. The teens have just about worn ours out.lol My best price was K-mart but we didn't have Walmart then. I like Dave R. lots but waving cash at Walmart may not result in a discount as much as a mugging. lol!

**Ceashels** · 06-25-2010, 10:05 AM

If there is a plate on the carousel... it is nice to have it dish washer safe... and that it fits in the dish washer.

I've also found that I use the defrost more often than I thought I would. I never use the preprogrammed buttons for beverages or popcorn, etc. But I do use the power level feature quite a bit.

What features have you used the most on the current/soon to be deceased microwave you have now?

**Libby** · 06-25-2010, 10:11 AM

mek, if you like what you have now - look for one thats very similar especially in size

**Russ** · 06-25-2010, 10:14 AM

Originally Posted by Libby

mek, if you like what you have now - look for one thats very similar especially in size

No No No. Mr Scott, We need MORE Power and we need it now!

**Darlene** · 06-25-2010, 10:29 AM

Besides fitting a dinner plate I like mine to be tall enough to fit a jar (melting crystalized honey etc)or taller container . Turntable and popcorn setting are neat too.