All you need to know about commercial microwaves

This is our guide to give you everything you need to know about buying a commercial microwave and the different options available to you. Should you require any further assistance, explanation or an unbeatable price then please call our sales team on 01293-775073, pop in to our trade outlet or visit us online.

Microwaves                                                                                

Commercial microwaves:

• Mostly have a stainless steel body and chassis for robustness and to withstand the daily use of a commercial kitchen

Can be either manual or programmable:

• Manual controls is a simple turn dial that controls the power and time

• Programmable controls allow for pre-set programs to be saved to the memory of the machine so that at the push of a button the program starts.

Commercial microwaves DON'T

• Have a turntable - they use expansive stirring systems to enable the even distribution of heat.

• Have additional cooking modes (like grill) that you may have on a domestic microwave. commercial units will only come with a microwave function.

Benefits of a commercial microwave

• The unit will be more robust to handle the rigours of being used in a busy commercial environment.

• The higher element allows for a quickened cooking time as the power output is greater.

• Can defrost food very quickly

Duty:

• Light Duty - Power ranges from 900w to 1100w. Suitable for smaller kitchens, cafés and retail outlets. If being used more than times per day than what the manufacturers recommend for the unit could void the warranty.

• Medium Duty - Power ranges from 1100w to 1500w and generally more robust that light duty. Suitable for catering operations where the unit will be subject to moderate use.

• Heavy Duty - Power ranges from 1500w to 2000w. These units are suitable for busy commercial kitchens with regular and constant use. These will offer the best heat performance and speed.

Brands

Samsung - Recognised brand globally, all microwaves now with 3 years parts and labour warranty. Free next day delivery.

Sharp - Competitive against the Samsung brand. Light duty model R21AT has 1 years parts and labour warranty and all remaining models have 3 years parts and labour warranty. Free next day delivery.

Daewoo - Relatively new to the commercial market, have a huge global presence with the Daewoo electronics brand. Good quality and a cheaper alternative to more well known microwave brands. Light duty unit with 1 year warranty and heavy duty with 3 years warranty.

Panasonic - Are seen as the best commercial microwave. has the largest range to choose from with models which are light, medium or heavy duty. 3 years full warranty.

Merrychef - UK made in Sheffield. Top end units of the highest quality and price. various unique units to choose from with a much wider selection of features and a full range of accessories. Recommended if to be used as a main unit in your operation.

Sammic - Slightly less popular than other brands but still very high quality units with a range to suit different needs. we recommend the HM-1830 which is the best priced unit with 2 tiers of cooking levels.