Microwaves use electromagnetic waves to heat food. When they strike the cooking food, the microwaves cause the water molecules within to vibrate at great speed. In turn, friction between these vibrating molecules generates the heat that cooks the food. The heat therefore originates within the food rather than outside it as in a conventional oven or hob. Because the vibrating continues after the microwave is switched off you need to allow standing time when the cooking process is completed. Some machines with a steam button and specially designed 'steamer' accessory, allow you to steam cook rice, vegetables and fish in your microwave. The water in the base of the steamer reaches boiling point and is then maintained at a simmer throughout the cooking time.

The combination microwave oven integrates fan cooking or a grill with the benefits of a microwave. It will produce food that looks traditionally cooked (browned, roasted or crisped) but in about half the time and energy consumption of conventional cooking. These combination machines are particularly useful as they can double up as a traditional oven, should you need extra oven space. If you want to build in a combination microwave with your single oven, make sure it is installed at a comfortable height so you can reach over the drop-down door (side-opening doors are for standard microwaves). It may be a good idea to build it in below the single oven or on its own below the worktop. Power, performance and capacity vary according to manufacturer and model; full-size models usually have a 30-40 litre capacity, although compact microwaves are great for small kitchens. The important thing to look for here is the diameter of the glass turntable (can you fit in awkward-sized dishes?). Otherwise, a 'stirrer' system (usually found on combi-ovens) eliminates the need for a turntable.

Some models also come with automatic cooking and defrosting programmes and a memory so you can store the cooking times of your favourite recipes. A talking microwave has also been developed to meet the needs of the elderly and visually impaired. If you want your microwave built into base or wall cupboards, buy one with proper ventilation that is specifically designed for such installation. An existing microwave can be adapted with special vents and baffles but this kind of customisation is costly. Otherwise freestanding models can sit happily on a worktop or shelving unit and come in a wide range of colours and finishes to suit - cool metals like stainless steel and brushed aluminium, white, bold colours and even ultra-modern, semi-transparent designs.

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