Best Deals on Microwaves | Brand Name Microwaves, Kitchen Appliances & Home Electronics

Like many great inventions, the microwave was discovered by accident. In the 1940s, engineer Percy Spencer was building radar equipment for the Raytheon Company when a chocolate bar he was carrying in his pocket melted when exposed to the microwave radar waves. This messy but happy accident lead to the development of the microwave oven as a fast way of cooking foods. Microwaves were not very efficient in the beginning. One of the first types of microwave ovens weighed in at an astounding 750 pounds and cost $5000! Clearly a lot of work had to be done to turn this clunky machine into the modern and convenient appliance we use today. By the mid 1970's, electronic manufacturers figured out how to reduce the size, cost and efficiency of microwave ovens and they were soon being sold all over the world.

Using Microwave Ovens

Remember the first time you discovered the simple joys of cooking with a microwave oven? How much fun was that first batch of microwave popcorn? Or instantly melting some cheese over nacho chips? Maybe you always grew up with a microwave oven in your home but that doesn't take away how fun and easy it is to prepare a meal or snack with a microwave. In fact, microwaves have completely changed the way we cook and buy our foods. Following the lead of popcorn makers, many food companies now produce items that are made specifically to cook in the microwave oven and not in a conventional oven. Virtually every label has microwave cooking instructions. Like the television, the microwave is definitely here to stay and has become an essential part of any kitchen. But if you're using your microwave just to reheat a frozen entree then you're really not getting the full benefit of the microwave cooking experience. The next generation of microwave ovens are being made by trusted brands like Frigidaire, Sharp and LG, and they can really change the way you think about preparing food.

Engineering Microwaves

You may wonder why companies like Sharp and LG, known for their electronics, have gotten into the microwave business. It is exactly that advanced electrical engineering experience which makes their microwaves state-of-the-art. The same principles of programming DVD players and televisions go into the design functionality of microwave ovens. And of course, you can't go wrong with any kitchen appliance made by Frigidaire. As the changes in the way we cook with a microwave have evolved over the years, so too has the design of the ovens themselves. Engineers have customized these appliances to meet virtually your every need.

Microwave Features

Each model has its own set of distinct features. When shopping for a new microwave you'll be amazed to discover that for a great price you can get a unit that has an abundance of timing and cooking options. One feature that shouldn't be left out of your microwave oven is a rotating turntable. This allows for foods that call for "rotating" or "turning over" during the cooking cycle to cook evenly. The turntable does the "rotating" for you so you don't need to go back and forth to the microwave to turn over hot food.
You will also want a display panel that is easy to read and operate. Many models of new microwave ovens come with one-touch cooking programs. This allows for you to microwave common food items like popcorn and baked potatoes with a single touch of a button. It's right there on the panel: just push "popcorn" and you're good to go. A decent microwave oven should also incorporate cook controls for other foods.
And don't forget about the amazing defrosting options on microwave ovens. There was a time that defrosting food meant having it sit out on the kitchen counter or sink all day long. Not only was this time-consuming but it was also a breeding ground for germs. Microwave ovens changed all of that. Having a decent rapid defrost feature will let you thaw out meat, chicken and fish and get it ready for cooking in a mere manner of minutes. The defrost feature also comes in handy if you make a habit out of freezing leftover soups, sauces and other meals.

Buying a Microwave

The traditional microwave oven is one that sits on the counter. These can range in sizes from compact to king size. If you've always had a countertop microwave oven and don't like the space it takes up, then you might consider one of the above the range models offered by Sharp and LG. These units can fit above your stove and clear up valuable counter space. They also come equipped with exhaust fans. Rainbow Appliance has a large selection of microwave ovens at a wide range of prices. You can even find rebates on certain brands which make the prices even better! A new microwave is a great present for someone special in your life or even to treat yourself.