Microwave ovens have been around for decades, but they deliver meals that look much different than the ones that used to come in the perfectly sectioned frozen t.v. dinners. Today, microwaves are used for cooking everything from popcorn and pizza rolls to heating up leftovers or even cooking a turkey! They are kid-friendly, perfect for tasty recipes when you are running short on time, and don’t even get us started on the fact that you don’t have to wash any extra pans when you opt for microwave cooking–or even better, a microwave and warming drawer combo.

But, let’s be real – if you have done a search to purchase a new microwave, you have found that there are a ton of different options to choose from. If you are looking to upgrade your current microwave, then you need something that goes above and beyond. That’s what you will find with a microwave drawer. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Upgrade Your Microwave?

There are many different reasons you may consider when upgrading your microwave – some functional, others purely cosmetic. For instance, if you have found that your foods are not heating as quickly or evenly as they once did, or if you smell a burning smell (that isn’t from your food), then it may be time to be out with the old and in with the new.

Below are a few more signs you should make the change:

-Loud or unusual noises while cooking. You are going to hear your microwave, but if it begins making noises that don’t sound like its normal self, let it go.

–Broken seal around the door. This is in place to keep radiation in. If the seal is cracked, worn, or broken, it could be a hazard.

-Non-functioning keypad. If you can’t tell the microwave how long you need it to cook, then it’s time to say goodbye.

-It’s old. Technologies have improved over the years – so if your microwave is several years old, you could be due.

Of course, sometimes you just want to upgrade your microwave because you don’t like the one you have – or maybe it doesn’t fit your decor anymore. Perhaps you got on the bandwagon and bought a bright red counter microwave a few years ago and have now decided that you don’t want the clutter – or the red. Whatever the reason is, you have decided to upgrade your microwave, and it’s ok. This is an easy appliance for you to change out.

What is a Microwave Drawer?

A microwave drawer cooks like a microwave because, essentially, that is what it is. However, it pulls out like a drawer rather than having a swinging door. These are most often installed in lower cabinets and are designed for you to pull them out like a drawer, insert food, then close and cook.

Unlike most other microwaves, a microwave drawer is designed to cook your food evenly without requiring that you have a turntable inside. This makes it much easier to cook larger items since they don’t have to spin around.

There are many additional benefits of a microwave drawer, such as:

-Doesn’t take up space on your countertop or crowd the around above your range

-Easy to install – even on a kitchen island

-No turntable

-Large interior space to accommodate large dishes

-Easy to access from above, such as to stir, add seasonings, etc.

-Looks like it is high-end customization in your kitchen

-Smooth drawer mechanics

Benefits of a Warming Drawer

Contrary to popular belief, a warming drawer and a microwave drawer are not the same things. In fact, they are very different. A microwave drawer heats the food, whereas a warming drawer keeps hot food hot.

Many people have started to include warming drawers as part of their kitchen appliances because they offer so much convenience. A warming drawer, as its name suggests, keeps food warm until it is time to eat. Have you ever prepared a large meal that you had to cook in shifts – only to send half of it to the table cold? It happens, especially on holidays and special occasions. But it doesn’t have to happen anymore with a warming drawer.

What to Look For When Upgrading your Microwave

If you have decided to upgrade your microwave, there are a few things you will want to consider when choosing. That way, you always feel confident you are making the right decision. Check out these features:

Size. If you are installing a microwave drawer into your cabinet, you need to know the amount of space you have to work with to make it happen. Consider all angles – height, width, and depth so that you ensure you have space all the way around.

Power. You want a microwave that has enough power to cook your food. After all, if you wanted to wait longer for your food, you’d use the oven, right? The higher the wattage, the faster it will cook – keep this in mind.

Features. Depending on when you last purchased a microwave, you may be surprised by all the new features. Know what is out there and what may be beneficial for you.

Finish. There are many different finishes available, but stainless steel is a timeless look that can always stand out from the crowd in both looks and durability.

Thor Kitchen’s Microwave Warming Drawer

Now that you are totally convinced that you need a new microwave drawer, why not invest in a microwave and warming drawer combo? Thor Kitchen’s 24-inch microwave drawer, model number TMD2401, is a perfect addition to any kitchen. It is a high-quality appliance with an elegant look and superb power and functionality. What more could you ask for? Oh, features, right. It’s got those, too!

-10 different power modes, so you get just the right amount of heating every time.

-1.2 cubic feet of space inside to fit containers of different shapes and sizes.

-12 unique sensor functions that allow you to easily melt chocolate, soften ice cream, popcorn settings, etc.

-Auto touch open/close control.

-Keeps food warm until you are ready to eat.

-Sleek design fits perfectly and looks great, too.

Get a Microwave and Warming Drawer Combo at THOR

The question is – what are you waiting for? Search for a dealer and upgrade to a microwave and warming drawer combo from THOR Kitchen today!