Microwave ovens are undoubtedly among the most popular appliances for professional and home kitchens. Developed in the second half of the 20th century, the device has revolutionized the way food is prepared at home and in restaurants, cafés and bars. Microwave ovens enable catering establishments to provide efficient service. There are two types of microwave ovens on the market – professional and household ones. We will discuss their differences in this article.
In a café, bar or restaurant, the equipment is essential for a smooth and efficient kitchen operation, which is why it's important that all the equipment is reliable and fast and works smoothly. Naturally, a microwave oven designed to speed up kitchen work must also meet these requirements. Yet sometimes restaurant owners decide to save money by purchasing household microwaves instead of professional ones. The experience of AUDORES shows that by choosing a household microwave oven, kitchen managers end up paying double or even several times more. Why is it so?
One of the key differences between household and professional microwave ovens is their capacity. Professional microwave ovens do not have the rotating glass tray that household microwave ovens use to place plates or bowls on.
Instead of a tray, in a professional microwave oven food is put on the grill, which allows you to heat food in dishes of different shapes and sizes. Due to the design of restaurant kitchens, professional microwave ovens are often more compact and can accommodate more dishes at once.
To heat large quantities of different foods quickly, professional microwave ovens are several times more powerful than household microwaves. A standard microwave oven has a power rating of 700–900 V, while a professional microwave oven has a power rating of 900–2200 V. This power rating makes it possible to warm up both soups and other dishes to the required temperature very quickly. The higher power of the microwave oven allows kitchen staff to serve more customers at the same time without having to worry about restaurant guests receiving a dish that is not fully heated.
Not only microwave ovens, but also other professional equipment is designed for more frequent, intensive use. Manufacturers of professional equipment ensure the durability of their equipment by selecting high quality materials and adapting the design for frequent use. For example, household microwave ovens are designed for infrequent use, with long intervals between heating meals. In a professional kitchen, things move much faster, so the microwave can run continuously for 3, 4 or 6 hours. To prevent breakages and overheating and to ensure trouble-free operation, we always recommend choosing a professional microwave.
Professional microwave ovens are usually equipped with software that allows you to adjust even the smallest food heating parameters. Depending on the model of your professional microwave oven, you can choose from out of 8 to 100 different food heating programs. Also, many of the new professional microwave models allow remote control and other benefits.
Professional kitchen equipment is usually made of strong stainless steel construction. This material is also used in professional microwave ovens to make them durable and easy to clean. In addition, the interior design of a professional microwave oven avoids small details that make cleaning difficult. Cleaning a professional microwave oven will therefore be several times easier than cleaning a household one.
Professional microwave ovens from Eurotec Riga, Bartscher and Fimar have earned our trust. Microwave models from these manufacturers are made of stainless steel. The robust and functional Eurotec Riga, Bartscher and Fimar microwave ovens are suitable for restaurant kitchens of all sizes.
Please take a look at the AUDORES product range and if you have any questions, feel free to consult us by email or phone.