If you’ve just purchased a convection microwave oven, you might be wondering, “Can you put metal in a convection microwave oven?” This is a common question, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. In this guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of using metal in a convection microwave oven.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Convection Microwave Oven
To tackle the question effectively, you should first understand what a convection microwave oven is. Unlike a traditional microwave, which uses electromagnetic waves to heat food, a convection microwave oven combines microwave technology with convection currents to cook more evenly and efficiently.
Why Metal Is Generally a No-No
Usually, metal is not recommended for use in microwave ovens because it reflects microwaves, causing uneven cooking. Worse, it could lead to a fire. However, the convection function changes the equation somewhat.
Read more convection oven articles here – Convection Oven: Your Ultimate Guide
When Can You Use Metal?
Here’s the nuance: if you’re only using the convection setting, some metal cookware is safe to use. Follow these steps to make sure you’re doing it correctly:
- Step 1: Refer to your appliance’s manual. Some brands give clear instructions about metal usage.
- Step 2: Opt for cookware explicitly labeled as “microwave-safe” or “convection-safe.”
- Step 3: Perform a test run using the convection setting only.
- Step 4: Monitor the cookware during the initial usage to ensure no sparking occurs.
When Should You Avoid Metal?
Never use metal when the microwave setting is on, even if you’re using a combo setting (microwave + convection). The risk of sparking and fire is far too high.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using metal with any jagged edges or corners as these can cause sparking even in convection mode. Also, never use aluminum foil as it is extremely sensitive to microwaves and can cause a fire.
Can You Put Metal in a Convection Microwave Oven?: Conclusion
So, can you put metal in a convection microwave oven? Yes, but with conditions. Always consult your manual, and when in doubt, opt for microwave-safe glass or ceramic cookware for complete peace of mind.
