If you’re an RV owner with an older rig, you may have experienced the frustration of using an inefficient microwave convection oven that takes forever to heat up your food. Trust me, I’ve been there!
But the good news is that replacing the microwave in your RV can be a straightforward process that can significantly improve your cooking experience on the road.
Over the last 20 years, RV microwave convection ovens have become much more efficient, and if your RV is more than 15 to 20 years old, it’s definitely worth considering an upgrade to a newer model.
Now, I know that electrical wiring can be intimidating for many RV owners, but don’t worry! I’ve done the research and included all the essential information you need to safely replace your convection microwave.
Best RV Microwave Convection Oven: An RV microwave convection oven is a kitchen appliance designed for use in recreational vehicles (RVs) that combines the functions of a microwave and a convection oven.
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5 Best RV Microwave Convection Oven Reviews: Top Choices
Here are the top 5 best RV microwave convection ovens that are highly demanded in the market:
- Best Countertop Microwave Oven – TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS
- Best RV Microwave – RecPro RPM-1-BLK
- Heavy Duty Microwave Oven – Contoure Advent MW912BWDK
- Best Toaster Smart Oven – NUWAVE Bravo Stainless Steel Look
- Best Inverter Microwave Technology – Panasonic HomeChef NN-CD87KS
1. Best Countertop Microwave Oven – TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS
Key Features:
- Maximum power output of 1100 watts and requires a 1550 watt input for efficient cooking.
- Countertop design with external dimensions of 20.5 inches wide by 17.1 inches deep by 12.8 inches high, making it suitable for RV use.
- Interior space measures 13.07 inches wide by 15 inches deep by 9.5 inches high, providing a total oven capacity of 1.2 cubic feet.
I recently purchased the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave convection oven for my travels, and I must say, I’m impressed with its performance despite its budget-friendly price tag.
With a maximum power output of 1100 watts and a 1550 watt input, it’s slightly more powerful than other options I considered, such as the RecPro microwave.
The compact size of 20.5 inches wide by 17.1 inches deep by 12.8 inches high makes it perfect for countertop use in my RV, and the 1.2 cubic feet capacity provides ample space for my cooking needs.
The ten different power levels and pre-programmed menu for popular foods, along with two defrost settings by time or weight, allow for easy customization of cooking settings.
Overall, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance for RV microwave convection oven needs, with a compact size and convenient cooking features.
Sample Customer Review:
“Came with easy to follow directions. Easy to set up and use. I like this much better than the previous microwave that only lasted a little over a year. Hopefully, this one does better.”
2. Best RV Microwave oven – RecPro RPM-1-BLK
Key Features:
- 1.1 cubic foot interior capacity for ample cooking space in an RV kitchen.
- Four cooking modes: microwave, microwave convection, grill, and roast, providing versatility in cooking techniques.
- 10 power levels for customizable cooking settings to suit different food types and cooking needs.
My brother has personally used the RecPro RV Convection Microwave, I can share his experience with this appliance. With its 1.1 cubic foot interior, it offers ample space for cooking in an RV kitchen.
The nine express cook options, including fresh and frozen vegetables, along with 10 power levels, provide versatile cooking capabilities. The instant start button with 30 seconds on the clock for each press makes it easy to quickly heat or cook food.
One thing to keep in mind is that this microwave should not be mounted under a cabinet, requiring counter space for placement. However, it offers four cooking modes, including microwave, microwave convection, grill, and roast, providing flexibility in cooking techniques.
With a net weight of 45.4 pounds, it’s relatively heavy, but Amazon reviews mention that it’s whisper-quiet during operation.
Overall, my brother found the RecPro RV Convection Microwave to be a reliable and functional option for his RV kitchen, with its multiple cooking modes and convenient features.
Sample Customer Review:
“After reading several reviews, I was concerned it would require some cabinet modification, but the original trim fit this microwave perfectly, so no cabinet modification was needed. I was able to remove the existing microwave and install this one in 15 minutes!”
3. Heavy Duty Microwave Oven – Contoure Advent MW912BWDK
Key Features:
- Easy-to-read display for adjusting timers, cook times, power levels, and clock.
- Stable and even cooking with the glass turntable.
- Wide trim kit for easy installation in RV kitchens.
My bestie recently got the Advent MW912BWDK RV Built-in Microwave Convection Oven, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in her RV kitchen!
One of the standout features is the ten power levels it offers, giving her precise control over the cooking process. It’s been super convenient for cooking different meals to perfection.
Another major plus is the six pre-programmed cooking settings, which have made her life so much easier. With just a single push, she can cook a frozen pizza, popcorn, beverages, and frozen entries without any hassle.
Plus, the display is easy to read, even for someone like her with not-so-great eyesight. Adjusting timers, cook times, power levels, and the clock is a breeze.
The glass turntable has also been a highlight for her. It stays steady and doesn’t wobble, which has been an issue with some other models.
Plus, it cooks food evenly, so she doesn’t have to worry about biting into a cold hot pocket or pizza slice. It’s been a relief for her to have consistent and evenly cooked meals.
Installation was a breeze thanks to the wide trim kit that comes with this model. Even my bestie, who tends to struggle with such tasks, didn’t face any major issues setting it up in her RV kitchen. It’s been a hassle-free experience for her overall.
Overall, my bestie has been loving the Advent MW912BWDK RV Built-in Microwave Convection Oven. It’s made her RV cooking experience much more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable.
She highly recommends it to anyone looking for a powerful and reliable microwave convection oven for their RV kitchen.
Sample Customer Review:
“We found this microwave on Amazon, after an exhaustive search to find a replacement for our built-in microwave in our 5th wheel RV.
It fit perfectly, and we had it installed in less than 30 minutes. The seller shipped promptly and we received it before the expected date. If you are searching for a replacement built-in RV microwave, I highly recommend this one.”
4. Best Toaster Smart Oven – NUWAVE Bravo Stainless Steel Look
Key Features:
- Intuitive digital controls for easy operation
- High-quality construction, including heat-resistant tempered glass doors and heavy-duty cooking racks
- Non-stick enamel baking pan with broiler rack, crumb tray, and air fry basket included
I’ve been using the NuWave Bravo XL toaster oven air fryer combo and it’s been impressive. The ability to make adjustments on-the-fly is a standout feature, allowing me to customize the cooking process without starting over.
The intuitive digital controls are easy to use, and the integrated digital temperature probe ensures perfectly cooked food every time. With 112 presets and conveniences built-in, including 12 preset cooking functions and 4 rack positions, cooking is a breeze.
The Linear Thermal (Linear T) Technology maintains precise temperatures throughout the entire cooking process, resulting in consistent results.
The high-quality construction, from the heat-resistant tempered glass door to the heavy-duty cooking racks and non-stick enamel baking pan, ensures durability.
Overall, I highly recommend the NuWave Bravo XL toaster oven air fryer combo for its versatility, convenience, and performance. Its intuitive controls, precise cooking capabilities, and high-quality construction make it a top choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
Sample Customer Review:
“This is so much better to use than traditional air fryers!! So far I’ve baked, broiled, and air fried so much since purchasing the Nuwave Bravo air fryer. Tomorrow I’m going to try baking a cake with this oven. It puts off a fair amount of heat but it’s so easy to use I can overlook this part.
I’ll likely be using this more than my double wall oven. This comes with a great cookbook as well as a basic chart to cook many amazing foods. I’m having so much fun using this oven. I highly recommend this oven combo.”
5. Best Inverter Microwave Technology – Panasonic HomeChef NN-CD87KS
Key Features:
- Healthy air fryer mode: Quickly circulates hot air around food for crispy, brown results without preheating.
- Convection bake function: Allows baking and roasting up to 425°F, with or without preheating.
- Smart, even cooking power: 1000-Watt Panasonic inverter microwave technology for smart, even defrosting, reheating, cooking, and warming.
In my sister’s personal experience, the Panasonic all-in-one multi oven has been a game-changer in her kitchen. The sleek stainless steel design and compact footprint make it a space-saving addition to her countertop.
The convection bake, inverter microwave technology, and Genius Sensor Cooking features have made cooking a breeze, providing smart and even cooking results.
The air fryer mode has been a healthy alternative for crispy and delicious dishes like french fries and nuggets, without the need for preheating.
Overall, my sister has been highly satisfied with the Panasonic all-in-one multi oven. Its versatility, convenience, and sleek design have made cooking a breeze and provided delicious results.
Sample Customer Review:
“So far I love this! I had a Samsung all in one slim fryer, convection, microwave … after about a year and a half or so, it died. Was a very expensive unit I was disappointed, to say the least. This unit seems of better quality and has many great reviews. Everything works better than I expected and the Samsung was not as good out of the box. Hopefully, it lasts like the old Panasonic microwaves I remember as a kid my mom had forever and a day. Only time will tell.”
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting an RV Microwave Convection Oven
Choosing the best RV microwave convection oven can be challenging due to the varying features and specifications of different models.
In our Buying Guide, we will explain the key factors that impact the price range, from budget-friendly options to more expensive ones. We aim to provide a clear understanding of what to look for when selecting an RV microwave convection oven, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.
Consideration of Microwave Oven’s Wattage:
When choosing an RV microwave convection oven, consider its wattage, which determines its power. Most units have a wattage rating between 650 and 1950 watts. Check the wattage of your old microwave and ensure that your RV’s electrical system can handle the new oven’s wattage without overloading.
Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times. Some models allow you to customize convection temperature and microwave power, while others come with preset levels.
Keep in mind that using multiple appliances simultaneously may overload the system, so be mindful of your power supply.
Size and Space Considerations for Microwave Oven:
Consider the oven capacity, typically measured in cubic liters, when choosing an RV microwave convection oven. The difference between 0.8 and 1.2 cubic liters can impact what you can fit inside to heat up.
Compare the size of the oven to your existing RV cookware and the space where you plan to install it. Check both the interior and exterior dimensions of the oven to ensure it can accommodate your microwave-safe bowls and plates, and fit in your desired location, whether it’s over-the-range or countertop.
Cost Considerations for Microwave Oven:
RV microwave convection ovens are typically divided into two price categories: $100 to $400 and $400 to $800, with some exceptions. Lower-priced ovens from trusted brands may still offer high-tech features like Alexa compatibility.
Higher-priced ovens often have more advanced features, a durable stainless steel design, and additional safety protections such as child safety locks and sensor cooking. They also tend to come with longer and more comprehensive warranty options.
Available Cooking Options and Presets in Microwave Oven:
A microwave convection oven with various cooking settings can make cooking different foods easier and more efficient. Specific settings for reheating baked potatoes, popcorn, frozen foods, water, and other food types can help you cook them properly on your first attempt, without having to repeatedly reheat them.
These settings can improve the overall efficiency of your microwave convection oven, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Energy Efficiency and Power Consumption of Microwave Ovens:
Power consumption is an important consideration for RVers when choosing a microwave oven. Microwaves are energy-intensive appliances, and higher wattage ratings mean they consume more electricity when used.
If you’re mostly connected to RV electrical stands, power consumption may not be a big concern unless you’re paying for electricity by the kilowatt-hour.
However, if you rely on battery storage or solar panels while travelling, you need to choose a microwave oven that won’t strain your RV’s electrical system or deplete your energy storage.
Need for a Trim Kit in Microwave Oven Installation:
A trim kit is usually only necessary when installing an over-the-range microwave convection oven. Luckily, most of these ovens come with a trim kit for easy installation.
If the model you’re considering doesn’t include a trim kit, you may need to put in extra effort to clean up and complete the installation.
A trim kit helps make your new oven look like it has always been there, without any unsightly cracks or openings. It’s easier to match a trim kit that comes with the oven than to separately purchase one to match your oven.
Safety Features and Considerations:
The most important safety feature to look for in a microwave is a child lock, which prevents accidental operation by small children or others who are not familiar with how the microwave works.
However, note that this feature may not be activated by default and needs to be manually activated. Be careful not to accidentally activate it by pressing buttons too many times on certain models.
It’s best to teach young kids that microwaves are for adults only until they are ready to learn how to use it safely.
Extra Features and Functions:
Many of the top RV microwave convection ovens come with useful additional features. Some have built-in humidity sensors that analyze the moisture in food for even cooking.
These sensors detect when the food is cooked and automatically shut off the microwave to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
Another handy feature to look for is automatic cleaning, which reduces the need for manual cleaning to keep the microwave looking clean and fresh.
Different Varieties of RV Microwave Convection Ovens
RV microwave convection ovens come in two main types: countertop models and over-the-range ovens. Let’s quickly go over the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
Convection Ovens for Microwaves Over the Range:
Over-the-range microwave convection ovens are meant to be installed above the gas range in your RV. They are often included as a standard option in many RVs with limited kitchen space.
These ovens usually come with a range hood to help with ventilation for the gas range and stove located below them.
Microwave Convection Ovens for Countertop:
Countertop models of microwave convection ovens are generally larger than over-the-range models. They usually have rubber legs to prevent sliding or vibrations during RV movement. Unlike over-the-range ovens, they do not require a trim kit for installation.
In addition to standard microwave features, convection ovens use a heater and fan to cook food more evenly. Traditional microwaves use electricity to heat food, while convection ovens circulate heat with a fan for better cooking results.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Cooking Tips and Techniques for RV Microwave Convection Ovens
- Use microwave-safe cookware: It’s important to use cookware that is labelled as microwave-safe, such as glass, ceramic, or microwave-safe plastic, when cooking in your RV microwave convection oven. Avoid using metal or non-microwave-safe cookware, as they can cause sparks or damage to the oven.
- Rotate and stir food: To ensure even cooking, rotate and stir your food during the cooking process. This helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots or undercooked areas.
- Adjust cooking times and temperatures: Convection cooking may require adjustments to cooking times and temperatures compared to traditional oven cooking.
As a general rule, you can reduce the cooking time by about 25% and lower the temperature by about 25°F when using convection mode. However, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations.
- Use preset cooking functions: Many RV microwave convection ovens come with preset cooking functions, such as popcorn, pizza, or defrosting. These functions are designed to simplify cooking and provide consistent results. Experiment with these presets to find the right settings for your favourite dishes.
- Experiment with recipes: RV microwave convection ovens offer versatility in cooking, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes.
You can bake, roast, grill, and even air fry using the convection mode. Adjust cooking times, temperatures, and power levels to suit your recipes and preferences.
- Choose suitable cookware for convection cooking: When using the convection mode, it’s recommended to use shallow, flat-sided cookware that allows hot air to circulate evenly around the food. Avoid using deep pans or dishes that can block the airflow and result in uneven cooking.
- Use a food thermometer: To ensure that food is cooked to the right internal temperature, use a food thermometer. This helps to ensure food safety and prevent undercooking or overcooking.
By following these tips and techniques, you can effectively use your RV microwave convection oven to cook a wide variety of dishes with delicious results.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust settings to suit your needs and preferences, and always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for best practices. Happy cooking!
Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for RV Microwave Convection Ovens
- Regular cleaning: It’s important to clean your RV microwave convection oven regularly to prevent the buildup of food particles, grease, and stains. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the interior and exterior of the oven. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the oven’s surface.
- Remove spills and splatters promptly: If any spills or splatters occur during cooking, wipe them up promptly to prevent them from hardening and becoming difficult to clean later. This can help to keep your oven clean and prevent odors from developing.
- Clean the turntable and accessories: Remove the turntable and other accessories, such as racks and trays, and wash them with warm, soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before placing them back in the oven. This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents food debris from accumulating.
- Check and replace filters: Some RV microwave convection ovens have filters that need to be checked and replaced regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean or replace filters, such as grease filters or charcoal filters, to maintain optimal performance.
- Troubleshooting common issues: If you encounter any issues with your RV microwave convection oven, such as uneven cooking, sparking, or unusual noises, refer to the manufacturer’s manual or contact customer support for troubleshooting tips or professional assistance.
- Regular maintenance: In addition to cleaning, it’s important to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as checking for loose screws or bolts, inspecting the door seal for any damage, and ensuring proper ventilation around the oven.
By following these maintenance and cleaning tips, you can keep your RV microwave convection oven in good condition, extend its lifespan, and ensure efficient and safe cooking experiences during your travels.
FAQs
Q:1 What is an RV microwave convection oven?
An RV microwave convection oven is a kitchen appliance designed for use in recreational vehicles (RVs) that combines the functions of a microwave and a convection oven.
It allows you to cook or bake a variety of foods using both microwave and convection cooking methods.
Q:2 Can I replace my old RV microwave with a convection oven?
Yes, you can replace your old RV microwave with a convection oven. However, it’s important to check the electrical system of your RV to ensure that it can handle the wattage of the new oven without overloading. You may also need to consider the size and space available in your RV for installation.
Q;3 What are the key factors to consider when selecting an RV microwave convection oven?
Some key factors to consider when selecting an RV microwave convection oven include wattage, size and space considerations, cost, available cooking options and presets, energy efficiency and power consumption, need for a trim kit in installation, safety features, and considerations, and extra features and functions.
Q:4 What is the wattage of an RV microwave convection oven?
The wattage of an RV microwave convection oven can vary and typically ranges from 650 to 1950 watts. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times, but it’s important to ensure that your RV’s electrical system can handle the wattage of the oven without overloading.
Q:5 What are the available cooking options and presets in an RV microwave convection oven?
RV microwave convection ovens may come with various cooking options and preset, such as settings for reheating baked potatoes, popcorn, frozen foods, water, and other food types.
These settings can make cooking different foods easier and more efficient, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best RV microwave convection oven, it’s crucial to consider factors such as multi-functionality, healthy cooking options, wattage, material, and space-saving design.
Taking into account these key features, you can find the perfect RV microwave convection oven that fits your needs and enhances your on-the-go cooking experience.
The Panasonic HomeChef NN-CD87KS is a top choice for an RV microwave convection oven due to its exceptional features and performance.
We hope you will be well aware of the best RC microwave convection oven, after reading this comprehensive article. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below!