Microwave capacity is measured in litres (L), and sizes generally range from 25L to 50L. Stick to a smaller model if you'll mostly be using the unit for reheating and defrosting. If you will be using the microwave to cook meals for a large family, it follows that bigger will be more beneficial.
In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.
The standard size for a microwave oven, 20 litres is great for smaller families where the microwave is frequently used. These time-saving appliances are perfect for those looking for a microwave that nails all the basics.
Widths can range from about 21 to 25 inches. If you're installing in cabinets, a trim kit will usually bring the width to 27 or 30 inches. Height is usually around 12 to 15 inches. Closed-door depths range from roughly 16 to 20 inches.
The capacity of the microwave oven is measured in liters.
Below we are listing a table to calculate the capacity. Essentially it says for a small family, for Solo type micro oven, 15-20 liters is enough, But for the same small family, for Grill or Convection type 21-30 liters is sufficient.
23L microwaves are perfect for people or families who need a little bit more interior capacity than a 20L model can provide. The difference isn't huge, but 23L models can fit larger dinner plates and cook more food, without taking up too much work surface space.
This appliance also includes impressive functionality, with 800 watts of microwave power providing quick and convenient cooking in your home. The RHM2070B6 from Russell Hobbs is a 20 litre capacity microwave, comfortably fitting a standard size of dinner plate.
A family of four or more will more than likely need a full-size microwave and may even consider a built-in microwave plus a countertop microwave depending on who is using it and what they're using it for.
General Electric LARGE: 2.2 Cubic Feet Microwave
Even if you live alone, a mid-size microwave is worth the money and space if you cook with it a lot. What microwave wattage do I need? When it comes to microwaves, wattage equals power. A 1,000-watt microwave will cook quickly and efficiently, so that's a great baseline.
Most microwave recipes require 1,000 watts of power for best results, so you may want to choose a microwave model with a higher wattage when shopping.
Smaller microwaves typically require a little less energy than larger, more powerful microwaves. Your electric bill calculates your energy consumption in kWh. Kilowatt-hours are simply the amount of electricity used over a period of time.
On average, microwaves use about 600 to 1000 watts of electricity. Using a microwave for 15 minutes per day will use about 6.1 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month and 73 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. A microwave costs an average of $0.86 to use for a month and $10.36 to use for a year.
A large microwave has more power than a small one. Some microwaves have a wattage of 1000 watts or more and some smaller ones only have 600 watts. This means that a larger version will heat up your food faster than a smaller one. If you want your food to cook quickly and evenly, then go for something with more power.
Small microwave: up to 25L
These usually have a capacity up to 25L. In a small microwave, you can fit a plate of lasagna, a bowl of tomato soup, or a ready meal. Carefully check if high objects you often heat up fit in the microwave, such as a baby bottle.
On average, microwaves range in capacity from 0.7 cu. ft., which is suitable for most dinner plates, to 2.2 cu. ft., which is a better size for bigger cookware.
20L Capacity. Available in silver or white. 700 Watts. Dimensions (WxDxH): 440 x 355 x 258mm.
Dimensions/Size:
Outer dimensions: 28.3cm (H) x 53.4cm (W) x 38.8cm (D)
Dimensions: 517 x 297 x 384 mm.
With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
Built-in Microwaves
ft. being the most common range. Widths are roughly 24″ (61 cm), 27″ (68.5 cm) or 30″ (76 cm) to align with standard cabinet widths. Depths typically range from 30 to 35″ (76 to 89 cm) with the door open and 20 to 25″ (51 to 63.5 cm) with the door closed.
Replacing an over-the-range microwave is a relatively straightforward DIY home project. Microwaves are heavy, though, so it's a good idea to get someone to help you hold the microwave at certain steps during the installation. The project will require a drill, stud finder, measuring tape, and a pencil.