If you’re a boater who enjoys spending extended periods on the water, you know the importance of having a reliable microwave on board.
A good microwave oven makes meal cooking more convenient, saving you time and effort.
However, not all microwaves are created equal, and finding the best one for your boat can be challenging.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best microwave for boats on the market, taking into account factors such as size, power consumption, and durability to help you make an informed decision.
Can You Use a Microwave on a Boat?
Yes, it is possible to use a microwave on a boat as long as the boat has a power source that can handle the wattage of the microwave.
It is, however, important to take certain safety precautions when using a microwave on a boat.
For example, ensure the microwave is securely fastened to prevent it from tipping over while the boat is in motion.
Additionally, be sure to use microwave-safe containers and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Microwave for Boats
When choosing a microwave for a boat, there are several important factors to consider:
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Size and Capacity
Space is often limited on a boat, so it’s important to choose a microwave that will fit comfortably in the available space.
Consider also the capacity of the microwave to ensure that it is large enough to accommodate the food you plan to cook.
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Power Source
Boats often have limited power sources, so it’s important to choose a microwave that will run off the boat’s battery or generator without draining too much power.
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Durability
Boats can be subjected to rough seas and harsh weather conditions, so choose a microwave that is durable enough to withstand these conditions.
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Weight
Boats have weight limits, so it’s important to choose a microwave that is lightweight and won’t add too much weight to the boat.
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Features
Consider the features of the microwave, such as defrost, reheat, and cook options, as well as any additional features like a turntable or a built-in grill.
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Price
Lastly, consider the cost of the microwave and choose one that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.
Best Microwaves for Boats
Here are five options along with their features, pros, and cons:
Black+Decker EM031MFO-X1 Microwave Oven
The Black+Decker EM031MFO-X1 Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy delicious hot meals while on their boat.
This microwave oven is specifically designed for use in boats, with its compact size and sturdy construction.
With its 1.1 cubic feet of cooking space and 1000 watts of power, it can quickly heat up or cook any food you desire.
The sleek black design will complement any kitchen decor, and the LED display and touchpad controls make it easy to use.
One of the standout features of this microwave is its intuitive control panel, which is easy to use and navigate.
It includes six preset cooking functions for popcorn, potatoes, frozen vegetables, pizza, beverages, and reheating, as well as a defrost function that can be programmed by weight or time.
EM031MFO-X1 Microwave Oven is an excellent product that delivers both style and function.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to operate
- Even heating
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Small size may not be suitable for larger food items
- Some users have reported durability issues
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Microwave Oven
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for boat owners who need a reliable, efficient, and high-performing microwave oven for their watercraft.
This compact and sleek microwave oven is designed to handle the ruggedness of the marine environment, making it a popular choice for boaters.
With a sleek stainless steel design, it not only looks good, but it also performs well.
The 1.2 cubic foot capacity is perfect for reheating leftovers or cooking small meals.
The 1100 watts of power ensures your food heats quickly.
One of the standout features of this microwave is the easy-to-use control panel.
Its buttons are clearly labeled, and there are several preset options for common tasks like popcorn and baked potatoes.
The interior light is also a nice touch, making it easy to monitor your food as it cooks.
I would highly recommend the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Microwave Oven. It is well-built, user-friendly, and efficient, making it a great choice for anyone in the market looking for a good microwave for their boat.
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Even heating
- Quick cooking time
- Sleek design
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- May be bulky for small boats
- Some users have reported reliability issues
Panasonic NN-SU656B Microwave Oven
The Panasonic NN-SU656B Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for boat owners who want to enjoy the convenience of a microwave oven while on the water.
This compact and lightweight microwave is designed specifically for marine use, with features that make it ideal for boats of all sizes.
This microwave oven has a sleek black design that will fit in with any decor.
The oven is 1.3 cubic feet in size, which is perfect for cooking large meals.
The Inverter Technology allows for even cooking, which is essential for getting the best results with your food.
Its 1200-watt power output means that the oven can efficiently cook your meals.
NN-SU656B Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a convenient microwave oven.
The Inverter Technology, high power output, and convenient features make this microwave an excellent value for the price.
Pros:
- Large capacity
- Even heating
- Quick cooking time
- Turbo defrost feature for faster thawing
- Sleek design
Cons:
- May be bulky for small boats
- Some users have reported issues with the door latch
Commercial Chef CHM009 Countertop Microwave
The Commercial Chef CHM009 Countertop Microwave is a fantastic addition to any boat kitchen.
This microwave oven is compact, lightweight, and easy to install on any countertop.
It is perfect for boats, where space is limited, and portability is a key consideration.
One of the standout features of this microwave is its user-friendly control panel.
It is simple to use, making it easy to heat food, defrost frozen items, and cook simple meals.
The 0.9 cubic foot interior is large enough to fit most standard-size plates, but small enough to fit in tight spaces.
Another great feature of the CHM009 is its efficient power consumption. It operates on 900 watts, which is lower than other microwaves of similar size.
This is an important consideration when you are on a boat, where power usage needs to be carefully managed.
CHM009 is an excellent choice for boat owners who want a compact, efficient microwave oven.
It is affordable, easy to use, and highly functional, making it a valuable addition to any boat kitchen.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to operate
- Even heating
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Small size may not be suitable for larger food items
- Some users have reported reliability issues
Sharp ZSMC1131CB Carousel Microwave Oven
The Sharp ZSMC1131CB Carousel Microwave Oven is an excellent option for those who own boats and want to have a reliable microwave on board.
This microwave oven has a compact design that can fit easily in limited space on boats.
It has a capacity of 1.1 cubic feet. It can handle most standard-sized dishes.
One of the most impressive features of this microwave oven is its 1000 watts of power, which allows it to cook food quickly.
It also has a carousel turntable that rotates food evenly for even cooking.
The control panel is easy to use, and the display is large and easy to read.
Another great feature of this microwave oven is its auto-defrost function, which makes it easy to defrost frozen foods without any guesswork.
The interior light is bright which makes it easy to monitor food while it’s cooking.
ZSMC1131CB Carousel Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for anyone who wants an efficient microwave on their boat.
Its compact design, powerful performance, and convenient features make it a great addition to any boat kitchen.
Pros:
- Even heating
- Carousel turntable system for even cooking
- Express cook feature for quick cooking
- Compact size
Cons:
- Small size may not be suitable for larger food items
- Some users have reported issues with the door latch
It’s important to note that when selecting a microwave for a boat, you should consider the available space, power supply, and durability of the product.
Tips for Using a Microwave on a Boat.
- Secure your microwave in a stable location.
- Use a surge protector to avoid damage from power fluctuations.
- Check that your boat’s generator can handle the microwave’s wattage.
- Use microwave-safe containers.
- Be careful when heating liquids to avoid spills.
- Keep the microwave clean to prevent mold.
- Don’t use the microwave in rough waters to avoid accidents.
- Use caution when opening the microwave door to avoid injury from movement.
- Always supervise the microwave while in use.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Regular Household Microwave on my Boat?
Yes, you can use a regular household microwave on your boat as long as it has the appropriate voltage and wattage for the electrical system on your boat.
How Much Power Does a Boat Microwave Typically Use?
A typical boat microwave uses around 600-1500 watts of power, depending on its size and features.
How Do I Install a Microwave on My Boat?
To install a microwave on your boat, you’ll need to:
- Choose a compact microwave designed for marine use.
- Determine the best location for installation, considering power supply, ventilation, and convenience.
- Install a dedicated circuit with a breaker for the microwave.
- Mount the microwave securely using brackets and screws.
- Connect the microwave to the power source and test it before use.
It’s important to consult a professional electrician if you’re unsure about the wiring or power supply on your boat.