Caravan Microwave Low Wattage Reviews 2021

# 1 Daewoo QT1R Compact Manual Control Microwave Oven, 600 W, 14 Litre, White

This is a compact 600w unit that is ideal for use in a caravan. The controls are conventional so all the power consumption is used for cooking the food items. Can be used in a caravan with a 12v system that has a power inverter or hooked up to mains at a caravan park with amperage as low as 10.

The variable power settings make it possible to slow cook items and conserve battery power. With the turntable and dual wave emitters, the food will be thoroughly cooked independently of the power setting. With a depth of only 33.2 cm, it can easily fit on the counter top when being used or stored under the bench seat when not in use.

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# 2 Hotpoint  Xtraspace Curve 13L Digital Microwave Oven

This is taller than average but thinner than most other 700w microwaves that has digital controls for more precise cooking. Because of the cooking area dimensions, it is ideal for taller containers than most other small microwaves but can still handle the average dinner plate inside.

The cooking settings can be precisely set and stored for future use. It has a depth of 35.3 cm so that it can fit easily on the counter top and then stored under the bench seat when not in use. It is also thinner than most being only 39.2 cm wide but is 36 cm high. It is heavier than most compact microwaves at 13.3 kg. For those who want digital controls, this unit should be considered. It is nearly identical to a now-discontinued Whirlpool unit that had a good reputation.

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# 3 Russell Hobbs RHM1401S 14 L 600 W Silver Small and Compact Manual Microwave with 6 Power Levels

The sleek modern looking Russell Hobbs microwave has space and power you need to warm up a hot meal without draining the leisure battery. The 5 manual power settings and defrost mode are designed to use minimal power while still performing as needed. The heat distribution is enhanced with diamond cavity walls to distribute the heat more evenly. With it only being 22.4 cm high, it is also a space saver when on your counter top or in storage.

With manual setting knobs and variable wattage settings, power can be conserved while still having a warm meal. The sleek design also means it will not take up too much space when being stored under the bench seat. With the diamond cooking cavity, less power can be used and still have an evenly heated meal ready when you want it. 

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No, the 12v microwave is not the only option and for many, not the preferred for the following reasons;

A 240v microwave can be installed and used when the caravan only has a 12v electrical system with the use of a voltage converter. While the cost of the converter is another addition that must be purchased, the savings by purchasing the common 240v microwave will balance it out.

When looking for a microwave for your home most go after a large and powerful one. The opposite is true when choosing one for your caravan. The smaller units are easier to place inside a caravan that has limited space. The lower power usage will also make it possible not to drain the leisure battery as fast or trip the breakers. Remember a 900w microwave has a surge of 1800w upon startup that can cause breakers to trip.

How many power settings do you need?

A microwave that has variable power settings is suggested. Many of the available units have between 5 and 7 power settings. These can help in reducing power consumption when they are used.

Digital or Manual?

Microwaves come with either digital or manual switches for settings. The manual switches are not as accurate as the digital ones, but they also do not consume any energy. A manual unit is suggested to help conserve power.

Size & Capacity

A compact microwave will have a capacity from 13 to 20 litres. The width varies in width from 39 to 44 cm, with a depth of 33 to 35 cm and 23 to 35 cm high. Knowing where you are going to locate the microwave in your caravan is important so that you will know if it will fit. For some owners, they just place the microwave on the counter when they use it which eliminate the size problem. Remember you must take hot food out so installing units  overhead in a cabinet is not advised.

While it is possible to do so, most caravan owners do not undertake that project. If you want to make the microwave a permanent part of the kitchen area, there are several things you must do. The unit must be mounted on a shockproof base since vibrations can cause them not to function. They also generate large amounts of heat and a minimum of 100 cm space on top, the sides and in the back of the unit must be present so that the excess heat can escape. Those equipped with a glass plate should also have that removed when on the road in your caravan to prevent it from breaking. When the caravan is hooked up to the main power source, it can function. If you are wild camping, then the use of a converter is required and the drain on the leisure battery will be high with each use of the oven.