Microwaves

A microwave oven generates electromagnetic waves at 2.45 GHz using a magnetron. These excite water molecules inside food, producing rapid friction and heat throughout the item without warming the cavity. A rotating turntable, or flatbed with stirrer fan, distributes energy evenly so cooking finishes with fewer cold spots.

Options range from compact solo units suited to reheating and defrosting, through grill microwaves that add browning capability, to convection combi ovens capable of baking, roasting, and steaming. Built-in variants slot into tall cabinet housings for a flush kitchen finish.

Solo microwaves heat food using electromagnetic energy alone, ideal for reheating and defrosting. Grill models add a quartz element for browning and light crisping. Combi (convection) microwaves include a fan-driven heating element that mimics a small oven, letting you bake cakes, roast chicken, and gratinate lasagne in one appliance.

Yes, in a combi (convection) model that pairs microwave energy with hot-air circulation. These ovens preheat, brown, and rise sponge cakes, roast joints, and gratinate pasta bakes just like a traditional oven, only with faster cook times. Solo units without convection cannot brown or produce a proper crust.

Prioritise cavity size, wattage between 800 and 1,200 W, sensor cooking programmes, and a mix of auto-defrost by weight. Useful extras include inverter power delivery for even results, grill and convection modes, child lock, quiet operation below 55 decibels, and dishwasher-safe accessories such as turntables and grill racks.

Inverter models deliver continuous, adjustable power rather than pulsing on and off at high wattage. This yields evenly heated results with fewer cold spots, gentler defrosting without partial cooking around edges, and quieter operation. Sharp inverter microwaves at Hadjikyriakos illustrate the benefits across everyday reheating, delicate simmering, and chocolate melting.

Yes. Modern units are heavily shielded, so electromagnetic energy stays contained within the sealed cavity. Door interlocks cut power the instant you pull the handle. Pregnant women, pacemaker users, and children can use them safely. Avoid running an empty machine, since without food to absorb energy, internal components may overheat.

Generally no. Metal reflects microwaves, causing sparks, damage to the magnetron, or fire risk. Small aluminium foil pieces are permitted in specific manufacturer-approved amounts, but avoid crumpled foil, twist ties, and metal-trimmed dishes. Use microwave-safe glass, ceramic, silicone, or heat-resistant plastic marked with the appropriate symbol for reliable operation.

Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and run for three minutes. Steam loosens splatter, so a damp cloth then wipes the cavity clean effortlessly. Remove the turntable and glass tray weekly for a soapy soak. Descale hard-water build-up monthly, and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage interior coatings.

For daily reheating, defrosting, and small batches, absolutely. Convection combi models further handle baking, roasting, and gratinating with results close to a traditional built-in oven. However, larger roasts, artisan bread, and multi-shelf trays still benefit from a full-size cooker. Many kitchens keep both for maximum versatility and speed.