Finding a kitchen that doesn't have a microwave is pretty hard. This is an indispensable device that helps to quickly warm up a dish when there is no time to mess around with heating on a gas or electric stove. Many microwave buyers choose the simplest ovens - solo. We will understand what kind of models they are and how they differ from the sophisticated technology.
What is a Solo Microwave
The microwave was accidentally invented by the U.S. military in the middle of the 20th century. Between the first prototypes of the device and serial production, very little time has passed. In fact, from the very beginning the device began to enjoy crazy popularity in the USA and Canada, and a few years later throughout Europe.
The first microwave ovens were quite large and not as powerful as today. Over the decades of evolution, these kitchen appliances have decreased in size by half, become more powerful by a factor of three, and have acquired many additional functions: grill, convection, various operating modes, the ability to set the heating by type of product and weight.
After the functionality of microwave ovens expanded, the devices began to change from the outside - at first there was a combined, electronic, and then touch control.
Microwave oven from the 1960s
The simplest microwave ovens working with microwave radiation are called “solos”.
Such devices do not have additional functions like grilling or convection. The capacity of these furnaces is enough to heat a significant amount of products. On average, the power of standard microwave ovens ranges from 600 to 900 watts. There are more powerful devices that deliver up to 1450 watts. The speed of cooking and heating food depends on the power of the oven.
Modern "solo ovens" are usually equipped with electronic or touch controls. There are still models with a mechanical adjustment unit.
Microwave of the late 1970s
The Solo microwave oven could not be replaced from the market by more technologically advanced devices - many simply do not need an all-in-one microwave oven.
A simple microwave oven is an assistant to the main oven, used mainly for quick defrosting of food and heating dishes.
1981 microwave oven "Electronics" SP-01 manufactured by the USSR
Another popular model hails from the USSR, late 1980s. Dneprjanka-1
How microwave ovens work and their advantages
The food in the Solo microwave ovens is heated using microwaves. In fact, this heating method allows the product to cook in its own juice, which allows food not to burn, not to fry and not bake.
Warming up takes place exactly to the set temperature, after a certain time the oven automatically turns off. Baking in such a microwave oven will not work. The only function of the device is the processing of products with microwaves.
The advantage of “solo” microwaves is their simplicity and, as a result, high reliability. These advantages can not boast more functional models. A high-quality model from a well-known brand can last more than one year if you regularly look after the device. Device Advantages:
- low price;
- simplicity in management;
- simplicity in leaving;
- durability;
- small physical dimensions.
How to choose a solo microwave
Choosing a microwave “solo”, you should pay attention to such characteristics as design, dimensions and power, as well as technical specifications. Parameters of microwave solo:
- Cost.Everything is quite simple here: the cheaper, the better. If you need a more advanced model, you should pay attention to the touch-controlled solo ovens. Typically, such devices are equipped with a timer, delayed start function, several cooking programs, defrost function.
- Trademark. The market includes all the well-known manufacturers of household appliances. A more recognizable brand will be more expensive, and there will be no problems with warranty service. However, lesser-known brands for the same money may offer a more advanced model.
- Specifications. The most important thing is power: the higher it is, the faster cooking takes place. There are many models on the market with a power of 500-600 watts, but you should pay attention to the more powerful ones - at 800-watts.
- Volume. This characteristic is important if, in addition to heating standard dishes, a microwave will be used to defrost bulk products.
- Power usage. Microwaves “eat up” electricity. It is important to which class of energy saving the device belongs. The best energy-saving classes are A ++, A + and A. But the most powerful 1200-W solo ovens belong to B + class, which is the norm.
Microwave Solo Care
Such a furnace is very easy to maintain - you should only clean it after heating the food. Cleaning is carried out only after disconnecting from the mains.
Particular attention should be paid to the turntable, which is not so contaminated so quickly. Raising the turntable and roller stand, you need to wipe the bottom of the furnace.
To wash the inside of the microwave, use mild detergent, water, and a cloth. It is also worthwhile to ensure that fat and food debris do not accumulate around the door.
Why is solo
Choosing a microwave “solo”, do not chase for additional features or brand fame. Such ovens are primarily devices for two or three functions, and not for full cooking, as in models with a grill or convection. Almost any one that you like in design, power and price will be a good solo oven.
