Microwave ovens and convection ovens serve different purposes in the kitchen, with unique features and benefits. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right appliance for your needs. River City Appliance in Sacramento services both types of appliances.

Microwave Ovens – Pros and Cons

Microwave ovens use electromagnetic waves to heat food quickly. These waves excite water molecules in the food, generating heat from within. Microwaves excel at reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals, making them extremely convenient.

Nevertheless, with any appliance there are always cons. One of the challenges with microwaves is that often they produce uneven heating, leaving some parts of the food cold while overcooking others. In addition, microwaves have an extremely limited ability to brown or crisp food, which tends to reduce the quality of certain dishes. Common repairs that are necessary for microwave ovens include:

• Magnetron replacement to restore heating ability.
• Replacement of malfunctioning door seals to prevent radiation leaks.
• Control panel or button replacement.

Countertop microwaves on average cost $100 – $600 and typically last about 8 years. Built-in models of course cost more, but this simple and convenient heating method may well be worth it.

Convection Ovens – Pros and Cons

Convection ovens are more versatile than microwave ovens. This is because convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air around food, ensuring even cooking. This heating method allows for browning, crisping, and cooking food thoroughly, making it ideal for baking, roasting, and broiling. Convection ovens are often used in place of conventional ovens because they perform faster, thus using less energy, and usually with better results. In comparison to microwaves, convention ovens have longer preheating times and slower cooking times. Their bulky size often requires more counter or cabinet space, so it is not a typical choice for small kitchens.

Some of the common challenges and repairs necessary for convection ovens include:

• Fan motor replacement to restore airflow.
• Repairs for broken heating elements to restore cooking functionality.
• Replacement of malfunctioning thermostats for accurate temperature control.

Convection oven costs are dependent on whether they are entry level, mid-range, or high end. The range in cost is approximately $600 – $3,500 and they typically last 10-15 years dependent on brand, usage, and maintenance. If you are an avid chef, this is money well spent.

Choosing the Right Oven

We hope that this brief explanation of both microwave and convection ovens proves helpful. No matter which you choose, both require proper care to avoid common problems and extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance and timely repairs ensure that these appliances continue to perform well in your kitchen. River City Appliance is pleased to offer their expertise in repairing all of your kitchen appliances. If you have questions or would like to make an appointment, contact us today!