Microwave oven power is measured in watts and indicates the cooking power of your oven. Generally, ovens labeled with more watts of power will cook food faster than ones with lower wattage. Recently most manufacturers have started using a standard test formulated in Europe. For this reason, some ovens rated by this procedure have earned higher wattage numbers than by U.S. test standards without actually cooking faster. Although foods will cook in any oven, to cook properly it is necessary to determine the wattage of your oven. I have used the following basic test over the years to help determine oven wattage output. It may help you also.
One cup (8 oz.) of room temperature water (approximately 75 degrees) will boil at High power (100%) in:
A. High wattage oven (850-1000 watts) in less than 2 minutes.
B. Full power oven (650-850 watt) in 2-3 minutes.
C. Lower power oven (400-650 watt) in 3-4 minutes.
When using recipes and package directions, set a "High Power" microwave oven for less than minimum time recommended. If your oven is "Low Power", it will possibly take longer than times recommended.
