Sleeping in MG4 [merged thread]

[Rolfe]

A modern inverter microwave shouldn't be a problem. Older versions suffered from high in-rush current, which can trip out electrics and can be several times the normal rated power of the device.

You didn't notice the part where I said I bought the microwave in question in 1994, then? Do you think it's worth trying it to see what happens, or could it actually damage something if it trips?

 

[tsedge]

You didn't notice the part where I said I bought the microwave in question in 1994, then? Do you think it's worth trying it to see what happens, or could it actually damage something if it trips?

I did notice. It probably isn't an inverter if it is that old but it should be marked on the microwave somewhere if it is an inverter model.

I don't think it will damage anything but it might not work and it might not work well alongside other appliances at the same time.

 

[Rolfe]

For a stainless steel smaller kettle, this looks like the job:

https://amzn.eu/d/boomzAg

Still just 2 kW though. Since the VtL easily handles 3 kW and I don't like waiting, I'm holding out for a 3 kW kettle, and so far the only small one I've seen that holds less than 1.7 litres is that glass one.

I did notice. It probably isn't an inverter if it is that old but it should be marked on the microwave somewhere if it is an inverter model.

I don't think it will damage anything but it might not work and it might not work well alongside other appliances at the same time.

It works fine when plugged in to the mains. It says it draws 1 kW, so even if it spiked to three times that, the VtL should still cope, no? And I don't tend to run more than one appliance at one time. I'm not going to buy a new microwave for this game (that would leave me with three!) but if the 600 watt one I have will work, that would be gravy.

 

[DixieTGS]

Does anyone have any thoughts about microwaves?

No, but have you looked at a portable induction hob? Probably not going to suit your needs, but that and a small pan might work.

I've never used one, but they look very compact and are surprisingly cheap.

 

[Rolfe]

I have looked at that, and that's certainly a viable alternative.

 

[Rolfe]

Here's the back of the microwave. I can't see anything about an inverter, but I know nothing.

It's small as microwaves go, but it's not tiny and it's still a fair weight. Maybe an induction hob would be more practical after all.

 

[Archev]

No, but have you looked at a portable induction hob? Probably not going to suit your needs, but that and a small pan might work.

I've never used one, but they look very compact and are surprisingly cheap.

I bought one from Amazon and it arrived rattling inside with broken plastic falling out. I sent it back and got a replacement a couple of days later - with a continental plug fitted. Back it went too. I’ve not bothered again since.

 

[Rolfe]

That's unusual for Amazon.

 

[tsedge]

Here's the back of the microwave. I can't see anything about an inverter, but I know nothing.

View attachment 31026

It's small as microwaves go, but it's not tiny and it's still a fair weight. Maybe an induction hob would be more practical after all.

Doesn't look like an inverter model to me.

The "Matsui" brand brings back a smile, good old Dixons using a Japanese sounding name to make it sound like quality! Good that it has lasted so long though, so clearly some quality in there! ?

 

[Rolfe]

Its mate died a long time ago. This machine itself has been rarely used since 2007, when my mother and I bought a house together (she was 90 at the time, and it was convenient!) and the house ended up with at least two of everything as a result. A kettle and a toaster have died since, but the 800 watt microwave my mum bought to replace the Matsui I gave her just keeps on going.

Is it only the inverter models that are liable to produce this spike of current?

 

[tsedge]

Is it only the inverter models that are liable to produce this spike of current?

Non inverter models can cause a spike of in-rush current. Inverter models avoid this.

The difference is that inverters maintain constant power whereas traditional microwaves cycle on and off, which can create these spikes.

Here a random link to learn more:

What is an inverter microwave and is it worth it? | CHOICE

What's the difference between a normal microwave and an inverter microwave? We explain how inverter microwaves work and whether they're worth the investment.

www.choice.com.au

 

[Rolfe]

So do you think I'd best not risk plugging this microwave into the car?

 

[Caramaddy]

I would be cautious - better safe than sorry to protect Caliban.

 

[Rolfe]

You're probably right. I've done enough damage recently. Better go back to looking at induction hobs, which are smaller to pack away anyway.

 

[Archev]

Having used an induction hob at home for some years I have to say I like the whole idea of them. I like the safety and as you say the neater size of them for car use.

 

[Rolfe]

I have a friend who is very keen on them too. I would need to get a suitable pan, but I presume these are available.

 

[Archev]

I have a friend who is very keen on them too. I would need to get a suitable pan, but I presume these are available.

Aye, basically if you have a magnet handy ( fridge magnet ?) - if it sticks to the pan / kettle base you’re good to go. Aluminium or glass types are therefor not suitable.

 

[Rolfe]

Well, I have the two wee magnets that came out of the magnetic curtains that I need to sew back in...

Yes, it's a runner. I could just use that. I got it in Ikea a while back, and it's very handy, but when I went back to get another they didn't stock it any more. It's hard to get small pans, I find. Everything seems to be designed for feeding the five thousand.

 

[Archev]

Well, I have the two wee magnets that came out of the magnetic curtains that I need to sew back in...

Yes, it's a runner. I could just use that. I got it in Ikea a while back, and it's very handy, but when I went back to get another they didn't stock it any more. It's hard to get small pans, I find. Everything seems to be designed for feeding the five thousand.

Pans usually have notes or symbols on the packaging leaflets advising their suitability for cooker types.

 

[Rolfe]

This pan was bought in Ikea several years ago and if it ever had any packaging it's long gone!