Frozen foods thaw better at lower settings, whereas foods like popcorn generally require higher levels. The more control you have over power settings, the more efficiently you can use the unit. Models with rotating turntables cook food more efficiently by ensuring a uniform penetration of microwaves. This feature will enable you to cut cooking times and save electricity, however, you may not be able to use larger rectangular or square containers with a turn table. Digital timers allow you to control cooking times better than rotary dial timers, which are often inaccurate.
Digital timers are also less likely to wear out or malfunction.
Make sure you plug your microwave into a grounded, polarized outlet. Extra Features Self-cleaning ovens save cleaning time. Also, because of their extra insulation, they are very energy efficient Convection-type ovens are energy efficient and eliminate hot and cold spots by circulating the heat. With these ovens you can lower the cooking temperature and shorten cooking times. An automatic spark igniter is an excellent feature if you're buying a gas range.