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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.
Item Details
Buyers Guide - Microwave Ovens
ILC Reference NO 81:20:003
Item sourced from ILC NSW database
Short Description
A microwave oven is a compact cooking unit which is energy efficient and does not get hot. It reduces cooking time and allows food to be heated in serving and/or lightweight dishes. Food preparation and cleaning up are minimised. Models vary from those with simple manual cook operations to units with auto cook, auto defrost and memory functions.
Factors To Consider
*Location in the kitchen area. Choose a size oven appropriate to the space available with a close proximity to a bench area. Space is needed for the door to open fully. Microwave oven doors open to the left or drop down.
*Door should open easily: Push-in or push-down door opener designs are available. Push-down tends to be easier. Some new models have a pull-open D-handle rather than a push button mechanism.
*Height at which oven will be positioned will affect access and visibility.
*Good visibility through the door and a bright internal light are important to examine food. The SHARP Carousel R-230J(W) is highly rated for it's visibility.
*Controls should be clearly visible, easy to read and turn or push.
*Rotary dials, touch pads or buttons are available. Raised touch pads or buttons make it easier to locate the controls.
*Rotary dials with a clock face style to control the timer and power level may be less confusing for some users and suitable to mark with raised indicators for people with visual impairment.
*Clock / timer should be read and heard clearly. Fluorescent digits may be easier to read than liquid crystal displays.
*Output power required is measured in watts, affecting the cooking time. The higher the wattage the shorter the cooking time.
*Capacity required is measured in litres, indicating the size of the oven and the ability to take larger dishes.
*Help or demonstration functions. Some models have a help feature on the display that gives instructions on how to set programs.
*Programming - the number and type of functions required and the number of steps necessary to operate each function should be carefully considered, as manual cook operations might be more straightforward for some users. Most models have 100% power 'quick start' option by pressing the start button once and many have the option of adjusting the time during cooking. The NEC N922E has two-stage programming to perform a sequence of functions.
*A Sensor Cook and Reheat function measures vapours in the oven when cooking or reheating so there is no need to set time or weight, such as with the SAMSUNG MS83HCE.
*Child safety lock. Most models, except the SAMSUNG M183ST and PANASONIC NN-MX21WF, allow you to enter a sequence of numbers to deactivate the microwave.
*Ease of cleaning and ability to remove turntable to clean. A smaller turntable plate would be lighter to handle.
*Consider warranty length and conditions.
The above models were assessed in collaboration with Choice for their Choice magazine (July 2005 issue). There is no guarantee that all models available on the market were assessed. For further information check Choice magazine, the Yellow Pages of the telephone book and talk to a retailer.
We are pleased to receive feedback on the information we provide... If there is something we should add or need to change, please let us know.
These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable difficulty in performing activities of daily living, consult an occupational therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team, or make an appointment with the ILC.
Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
Additional /images
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