Inverters And Microwave Ovens

[Dougal]

I'm going to try using a small, low powered microwave on the boat. I've seen a couple of conflicting statements regarding use with inverters, so thought I'd simply 'ask the experts'
Can I use a modified sine wave unit for this?

 

[pcatterall]

NOT an expert but I have considered this and, in fact we are set up to do it but never had the need.
We threw out the oven when we moved to the med as the heat in the cabin got unbearable.
We installed a small standard microwave which we use on shore power and it has been great.
We do have a large inverter and would use it for a quick reheat job when motoring but have not yet had the cause to use it.

I guess it all depends on your requirements, how much cooking do you propose to do when away from mains, battery size on board and charging system.

I feel it can be a solution depending on circumstances.

 

[EU_Cruiser]

We have a very small microwave on board. Make sure your wiring to the inverter is very thick (32mm2) or you will go through a lot of fuses before giving up and using on shore power only. Modern electronic equipment is apparently intolerant of modified sine wave and prefers pure. Try at your own risk.
Not an expert.

 

[PaulRainbow]

I'm going to try using a small, low powered microwave on the boat. I've seen a couple of conflicting statements regarding use with inverters, so thought I'd simply 'ask the experts'
Can I use a modified sine wave unit for this?

Pure sine wave is best. Most will run on modified sine (but not all) and there is a reduction in performance, cooking times are longer.

 

[Billyo]

Yep you want pure sine wave otherwise the micro won't perform properly. I also use induction hob that needs pure sine wave.

 

[Dougal]

OK thanks guys. Our old inverter has never been very reliable so I'll replace it with a sine wave unit.

 

[prv]

I wonder if it might be worth asking on the Mobo forum? Lots more microwaves in use over there, I suspect.

Pete

 

[DuncanHall]

I have one running off a 400AH bank powered by a Victron Multiplus 1600/70 when not on mains. Its a 700W microwave and uses 1% of battery capacity per minute when not on shore power. That's fine for occasional use but you do need a fair size battery bank to take the current (about 100A). That said its often very convenient.