Been searching the forum for microwave replacement, it seems that the Sharp R1881LSY is a direct replacement. I don't want to pay $600 for a microwave. Any suggestions on something not as 'feature rich' and not as expensive that would fit the existing space?
Thanks, Mike
Our original is held together literally with duct tape, Velcro, and entropy. But it still works. When I replace it we will use the Sharp convection oven because we use it in both microwave and oven settings a lot. I figure the labor savings would more or less reduce the cost of the Sharp compared to a work around replacement. Secondly, it would be an easier resell when you retire from your coach which has many high value features. Just my opinion and it's not billed at a shop rate of $150 an hour.
As long as we're on the subject Sue wants to replace our Sharp but ad " Air Fryer " to the thing. If someone was to find a replacement with microwaving, confection and air frying features... I'm in. A reasonable price would be a plus but not a deal killer.
I was curious:
Air Fryer Vs Convection Oven: What's the Difference? (https://www.thespruceeats.com/air-fryer-vs-convection-oven-4774315)
Air fry in a convection microwave is likely just additional heating elements.
Search results on Abt.com for over-the-range microwaves with air fry: Over-The-Range Microwaves & Microwave Hoods | Abt (https://www.abt.com/Over-The-Range-Microwaves/c/2578.html?filters)[2338][4]=21093&order_by_post=relevance%2Cdesc&start_index=0&per_page=20
Abt breaks the link above, but you can search their site for OTR microwaves with air fry and there are roughly 20 results.
Double-check the side clearance when switching from Sharp to another brand, though. Sometimes you need clearance if the convection heating element is on the side of the unit.
After looking at the space that the original microwave takes up, I'm thinking about having a large hanging shelf fashioned that would accommodate any countertop microwave, with space to spare. I think it would also open up the galley area considerably.
Mike
You'd have to secure the microwave for travel (that's a lot of weight bouncing on a shelf) and you would no longer have a regular oven. You might not care, but you would deter a lot of potential buyers.
Don't you want a convection oven for occasional use.
I have a real countertop convection oven/toaster. Securing it for travel is not a problem. Only use a microwave to heat things, never cook. Don't really care about resale value.
Mike
Well now i know that there's little difference between convection and air frying. Given that it's being cooked in the same area. Now we will be back to shopping for a micro & convection oven. Thanks for doing the research for us.
I think that that article is somewhat misleading. A true air fryer has a more concentrated heated air flow than a convection oven.
Mike
When I was shopping a replacement micro/convection, I checked to see if the width with the door open was wider than the unit. My coach had a side wall on the left side of the unit, and so only units that had the correct designed hinges would work. Some units "grew in width" with their left hand hinges.
I did the Sharp convection. Works great and it took a few hours but not a horrible job once I found the hidden screw in the cabinet.