Microwave dilemma

I think that you will find that most caravans have 'off the shelf' microwaves which are not 'cabinet specific'. Mine is one that can be purchased in any electric store.

Have a search for similar caravans to yours and see if the details specify the make/brand of microwave that they fit. You will then have a good guide as to what other manufacturers fit.

I retrofitted a microwave/grill in our caravan. It was also difficult for me to find one that was not too deep for the space available, but in the end I found a Panasonic model that just allows the locker door to close fully when the microwave is not in use. All the installation instructions specify are the minimum clearance dimensions required on both sides and above the microwave and maintaining these was no problem - no mention of in-cabinet installation.

The appliance has no been in use there for over 10 years and it has never given us any trouble.

Measure space in cabinet then buy a new microwave that will fit. Argos have a small one for £55 - that price  won’t break the bank. Its dimensions are on their website. Will that do?  Then take dead microwave to the dump.

Just make sure that te microwave is the same dimensions as the one being replaced as it should? have enough ventilation otherwise it may well overheat

Freestanding microwaves, like the ones used in caravans, as Simon says are not designed to be built in. I had to replace the microwave in my previous motorhome. I measured the size and searched online and found a replacement at a far lower price than sourcing it via the motorhome manufacturer. It's just you take a bit of a gamble but at a price less than a £100 if it lasts a couple of years, but probably longer, you are not massively out of pocket?

You could of course try and get the existing one repaired but as I once discovered the basic price for someone to look at it might be as much as the cost of a new one?

David

The microwave in our now almost 15 year old caravan failed 2 years back, looked like it was working but food did not get hot.

After measuring the space, we bought one from Asda for less than £40.

Wow, guys thanks for the info and being able to draw on your experiences. Have found a Toshiba one which is same capacity and wattage. It is slightly narrower, same depth and about one inch (25 mm for the metric guys) less in height.

I think that's going to be my solution.

Brilliant - thanks again

Rgds JimB

Toshiba are a pretty good brand. If you have not already done so, when you remove the old one take a note of how it is fixed in place as its more than likely the feet on the new microwave will be in a different place so adjustments might need to be made.

David

Notwithstanding the size issue, ensure it's screwed down properly. Many stories on one particular forum where microwave have been 'attached' with tiny inadequate screws resulting in movement, tremendous racket and potential parting company with the cupboard.

also, you definitely don't want any movement in the unit when removing piping hot food from it...easy to get the right unit, but ensure it's fixed very securely.

ps...I've just noticed that you're marked as a motorhomer but this refers to a caravan and is in the caravan section so I guess you're a not MHer anymore?...

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