Amana Microwave Model Guide: Is Amana Right For You?

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Barry began to teach himself to repair appliances as a teenager. In later years, his love of cooking led Barry to learn to troubleshoot kitchen appliances around his home. His background in education allows him to combine his love of repair work and passion for writing to bring the most helpful troubleshooting and repair guides to this site. He encourages appliance owners to plan ahead, think about their goals, and always read the manual!

Bottom Line Up Front

Amana’s microwave lineup is limited to just a countertop model and two over-the-range models. If you’re looking for a countertop microwave with advanced features, then Amana’s model is one to consider. It can also be built into cabinetry using a trim kit that’s sold separately.

If you’re looking for an over-the-range microwave, you’ll get the most value from Amana’s UMV1160CB model, which is almost $100 cheaper than the other Amana over-the-range model but offers almost similar features. Still, for an over-the-range model, you’re likely to get better value for money by choosing a different brand like GE or Whirlpool.

Available Amana Microwave Models

Amana UMV1160CB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave-Range Hood Combination

This Amana UMV1160CB model is perfect for those looking for an inexpensive over-the-range microwave for a small kitchen. Its design is standard; nothing to write home about.

However, at the price point of about $250, you don’t expect skeel looks. But don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t look bad; it looks plain. However, its performance isn’t one to sniff at: this microwave has a power output of 1000 watts that’s perfect for everyday warming and cooking.

Underneath the microwave, there’s a vent system for its good function, with two fan speeds. Unfortunately, Amana doesn’t specify the exhaust power of the vent, but they do mention that it uses charcoal odor filters. For added convenience, there’s lighting underneath the appliance, which illuminates the stovetop. Amana calls this an EZ-Vue light, and it has three levels of brightness.

Sadly, you’ll miss features like sensor and convection cooking, but this is expected at the sub $300 price. There are, however, auto cook, reheat, and defrost features.

Main Features

The Amana UMV1160CB microwave has a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet.
It has a width of 30 inches, a height of 17.375 inches, and a depth of 15.5 inches.
Its power output is 1000 watts.
It has a 12-inch glass turntable.
There’s a hidden vent system with charcoal odor filters.
It has updraft ventilation with a centrifugal blower.

Pros

This is an inexpensive microwave-hood combination model.
Its cooking power of 1000 watts quickly gets the job done.
The work-surface light can also be used as a night light.
It has an interior light as well.

Cons

There’s no sensor cooking.

Amana AMC4322GS 2.2 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave

This is a large-capacity countertop microwave with 2.2 cubic feet. It’s certainly larger than the average countertop type, and it’s also more expensive, selling at slightly more than $300. However, the Amana AMC4322GS is packed with features that make it worth the price.

Its main draw is Sensor Cooking, which is expected at this price range, and a very handy feature to have. There are several options for cooking and warming different dishes, like veggies, potatoes, soup, pizza, and even popcorn. There’s also a dinner option that’s designed to heat leftovers to the precise temperature.

For greater cooking versatility, Amana gave this microwave ten power levels, allowing you to select the right amount of power for the specific dish. Speaking of power, the AMC4322GS model has 1200 watts, which stacks it up with more expensive microwaves.

This 24-inch microwave will certainly take up a lot of counter space, but you can opt to buy a trim kit to transform it into a built-in model.

Main Features

The Amana AMC4322GS has a capacity of 2.2 cubic feet.
It has a width of 24 inches, a height of 12.6 inches, and a depth of 19.6 inches.
This model has a cooking power of 1200 watts.
It has ten power levels.
The microwave has Sensor Cooking.
It has a Control Lock feature.

Pros

It has Sensor Cooking.
The microwave can be transformed into a built-in model using its trim kit.
It has a large capacity.
It is powerful.

Cons

There’s no convection cooking.

Amana AMV2307PFS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-The-Range Microwave

This Amana microwave model is only about $10 more than the countertop model above, but it’s a great one to consider if you have a small kitchen space. Its 1.6-cubic-foot capacity and width of 30 inches are standard measurements for this type of microwave.

This model also has a cooking power of 1000 watts, just like the first model on this list. However, the difference between this and the previous over-the-range model is in the venting system; this one has a vent with a power of 300 CFM. This system is made up of an exhaust fan and charcoal filters that eliminate odors.

Other than this, every other feature seems similar to the Amana UMV1160CB model: capacity, cooking power, cooking options.

And at a price of about $100 more, it’s difficult to recommend this model over the previous one unless you have a busier kitchen that needs more venting power. Sadly, it also doesn’t have sensor cooking, which could have been enough to make this a compelling buy.

Main Features

The Amana UMV1160CB microwave has a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet.
Its width is 30 inches, height is 17.4 inches, and depth is 15.9 inches.
This model has a cooking power of 1000 watts.
It has a turntable with a diameter of 12 inches.
Its vent system has a power of 300 CFM.
There’s an incandescent work surface light.

Pros

The microwave’s vent system is powerful enough for a home kitchen.
It has a handy cooktop surface light.

Cons

It doesn’t have sensor cooking.

To help you decide whether Amana has the right microwave for you, keep reading to learn about the things to look out for when buying an Amana microwave.

Things to Consider When Buying an Amana Microwave

Type of Microwave

There are several types of microwaves sold by different brands, but Amana only sells countertop and over-the-range microwaves.

For the sake of this article, we’ll only focus on the three main types: built-in, countertop, over-the-range/ microwave-hood combinations. If you’re curious about the other types of microwaves, we wrote a piece with all this information here.

Built-in Microwaves

As implied by their name, these models are designed to be built into cabinetry or walls. They integrate into the kitchen’s design, presenting a modern look. If you have a small kitchen, then these types are great at utilizing the little space available.

Advantages

They sit flush with the cabinets and have a modern look.
They save countertop space.

Disadvantages

These models can be more expensive than their counterparts.

Amana doesn’t have an exclusive built-in microwave; however, the company’s countertop model can be built into cabinets by using the separately sold trim kit.

Countertop Microwaves

These microwave models stand on the kitchen counter and require no special installation process.

If you don’t want to remodel your kitchen to accommodate built-in appliances, then this type of microwave would be right for you. These models are also ideal for those renting, allowing you to easily move with it when you move house.

You can find a countertop microwave selling for as low as under $100 to some expensive ones selling for over $400. Amana’s countertop model is among the more expensive ones in the market, but it also has some advanced features (check it out in the microwave models overview section above).

Advantages

Countertop microwaves are easy to install.
They’re portable.
Most models are inexpensive.

Disadvantages

You’ll have to give up some countertop space.

Over-The-Range Microwaves

These models are installed above the stove, and they perform both microwave and hood functions. Underneath them, there’s a vent that extracts smoke and odors, while the microwave section works just like any other model.

If you need a hood as well, an over-the-range microwave might be a good fit for you. These models are also great for those with small kitchen spaces as they utilize the space above the stove.

Advantages

They perform the functions of two appliances – a microwave and a hood.
These models save kitchen space.

Disadvantages

Their ventilation systems aren’t as powerful as those of a dedicated hood.
Most over-the-range microwaves are costly.
They may be hard to reach for shorter people and children.

Which Type Should You Choose?

If you have a small kitchen, consider either the built-in or over-the-range models. However, if you plan to move soon, or you’re renting, and there’s no accommodation for built-in appliances, then go for the countertop microwave.

Ventilation System

If you’re thinking about getting an over-the-range microwave, find out the type of ventilation system that the OTR microwave has. These can either be external vent systems or recirculating vent systems.

External systems have an exhaust duct that leads to the outside of your house, so all the smoke and odors from the kitchen will be expelled outside.

Recirculating systems work by drawing in the kitchen air, purifying it, then recirculating it back into the kitchen. These systems have carbon filters with particles like charcoal that eliminate odors from the air.

Consider models with recirculating systems if you have a small space or live in an apartment with no room for installing a duct.

Also, consider the fan speed of the OTR microwave as this will determine how much air it can draw per minute. This is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). For a 30-inch range or less, make sure the fan speed is at least 300 CFM.

If you have a busy kitchen, your OTR microwave might struggle to keep up; most of these don’t have a CFM rating of more than 400. In this case, just get a dedicated hood as these are more powerful.

Amana has an over-the-range model with 300 CFM, but the company doesn’t specify the fan speed of their second OTR microwave.

Find out more about over-the-range ventilation systems here.

Size and Capacity

Check the width of the microwave and make sure you have enough space for it in your kitchen. If you’re considering a built-in or over-the-range model, also check the height and depth of the space you’ll have it installed.

Amana’s OTR models have widths of 30 inches, while the countertop model has a width of 24 inches. Consider the capacity of the microwave, and this should be determined by the size of your household. Make sure the largest dish that you intend to use in the microwave can fit inside.

Amana has 1.6 and 2.2-cubic-foot models for the over-the-range and countertop models, respectively.

Wattage

If you want a microwave that heats and cooks fast, get one with at least 1000 watts. Less than this is okay if you have a small household (or you live alone) and only want a microwave that can warm your food. However, avoid models with less than 700 watts as these take a long time to warm food and might struggle to heat meals to the center.

Amana’s OTR models have 1000 watts, and their countertop microwave has 1200 watts. Take a look at this article to find out more about microwave wattage.

Cooking Functionality

Amana offers features like sensor cooking, auto cook, auto reheat, and auto reheat functionality. However, none of the models has convection cooking, so consider another brand if you’re interested in this feature (check out the alternatives below).

Sadly, only one Amana model – the countertop microwave – has sensor cooking. Consider a different brand if you’re looking for an OTR microwave with this feature.

4 Alternative Microwave Models

Selection Criteria

To choose the recommended alternatives, I considered:

Price: The models on this list are within the same price range as Amana’s microwaves.
Features: I looked for microwave models that have extra features that are unavailable in Amana’s models.
Reviews: The alternative microwave models are among the best-rated ones by customers, with a track record of reliability and top performance.

GE® JVM7195EKES 1.9 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Sensor Microwave Oven

This GE microwave model has a retail price of about $340 at the time of writing this piece, placing it within the same price range as Amana’s models. However, it has so much more to offer, making it an easy recommendation. With a capacity of 1.9 cubic feet, it’s significantly larger than Amana’s over-the-range models but with a similar width, so it won’t take up more space.

Inside, there’s a 14-inch glass turntable, allowing you to fit larger dishes than you would in the Amana models. Its cooking power is a reasonable 1000 watts, and there are ten power levels.

Being an over-the-range microwave, it has a ventilation system with a fan speed of 400 CFM – more than you get in Amana’s microwaves. This system uses charcoal filters, and as an added feature, there’s an indicator light that lets you know when the filters need replacing.

GE also gave this microwave sensor cooking functionality, giving this model more value for money than Amana’s OTR models.

Main Features

The GE JVM7195EKES has a capacity of 1.9 cubic feet.
It has a width of 30 inches, a height of 16 inches, and a depth of 15.6 inches.
This model has a cooking power of 1000 watts.
Its turntable has a diameter of 14 inches.
There’s sensor cooking functionality.
It has a steam-cleaning feature.
The vent fan speed is 400 CFM.

Pros

This microwave has sensor cooking.
It costs as much as the Amana models.
Its vent fan is powerful for an OTR microwave.

Cons

There are no smart features.

Check out this GE microwave model guide to find out about other GE models.

Whirlpool WMH53521HB 2.1 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave

Whirlpool is one of the most reliable brands, and their microwaves rank highly, making this brand a worthy alternative to Amana. Their WMH53521HB over-the-range model costs about $50 more than Amana’s most expensive over-the-range model, but it comes packed with a lot more features.

Its capacity of 2.1 cubic feet is much more than you’ll get in any of Amana’s OTR models, and this is complemented by a rack that divides the internal real estate into two, allowing you to place two dishes inside. There’s also a 14-inch turntable whose rotate function can be turned on or off.

This Whirlpool microwave has a cooking power of 1000 watts, and you get sensor cooking and steam cooking, offering the flexibility to prepare more dishes. Its vent system has an impressive 400 CFM fan speed with four variable levels. This fan also has an auto-adapt feature that automatically varies the fan speed depending on the stovetop’s temperature.

Main Features

The Whirlpool WMH53521HB microwave has a capacity of 2.1 cubic feet.
It has a width of 30 inches, a height of 17 inches, and a depth of 16 inches.
Its cooking power is 1000 watts.
There are ten power levels.
It has a fingerprint-resistant finish.
The interior has a non-stick coating.
The microwave has sensor cooking.
There’s also steam cooking.
Its vent fan has a power of 400 CFM.

Pros

It’s easy to clean both the interior and exterior of this microwave.
You can use auto-adapt if you don’t want to select the fan speed yourself.
It can hold two dishes at once, thanks to the rack.

Cons

There’s no convection cooking.

Find out about this and other Whirlpool microwaves in this article.

Sharp 1.5 cu. ft. 1100W Black Sharp Over-the-Counter Carousel Microwave Oven (R1210TY)

This over-the-counter microwave offers a lot of features at a $300 price. Its main draw is its 1100 watts of cooking power, which is more than enough for warming or cooking large meals. It has a capacity of 1.5 cubic feet that’s ideal for a family’s needs. Inside, there’s a 14-inch turntable that Sharp tells us can hold a nine by 13-inch dish.

The Sharp R1210TY model has sensor cooking, with 11 settings for this feature. It also has Auto Defrost that does a great job at thawing food. Sadly, there’s no counter light underneath the unit; this would have been a handy feature. Still, that’s not an issue as the Sharp microwave’s features more than make up for it.

Main Features

The Sharp R1210TY microwave is an over-the-counter model.
It has a capacity of 1.5 cubic feet.
Its cooking power is 1100 watts.
There are 11 power levels.
It has a width of 24 inches, a height of 14 inches, and a depth of 15.5 inches.
This model has a 14-inch turntable.
The microwave has Sensor Cooking.
It also has Auto Defrost.

Pros

The microwave is powerful.
Sensor Cooking and Auto Defrost make it easy to use.

Cons

There’s no counter light.

Take a look at our Sharp microwave model guide to find out more about this brand.

Frigidaire FMBS2227AB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Built-In Microwave

Consider this Frigidaire microwave if you’re looking for a built-in model. Costing just over $300, it’s slightly cheaper than what Amana offers, making a compelling case for itself.

Its 1.6-cubic-foot capacity is similar to Amana’s OTR models, but this one comes in a smaller package, with a width of just 21.75 inches. Inside, there’s a glass turntable with a diameter of 13.5 inches, which should handle most of your dishes.

The microwave has the bells and whistles like Sensor Cook Technology and preset cooking options that complement its powerful 1100 watts. It also comes with ten power levels that make it easy to cook foods with different heat requirements.

Frigidaire is proud of the FMBS2227AB model’s door that they call a Zero-Clearance Door. Its design allows it to open to an angle of 90 degrees even if it’s installed next to a wall. Speaking of installation, you can get a trim kit to customize the microwave to the available space. Sharp sells both a 27-inch and 30-inch kit for this microwave.

Main Features

The Frigidaire FMBS2227AB model has a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet.
Its width is 22 inches, its height is 13 inches, and its depth is 17.25 inches.
The microwave has a cooking power of 1100 watts.
It has ten power levels.
There is Sensor Cook Technology in this model.
There’s a 13.5-inch turntable.

Pros

It has a large capacity but a narrow width.
You can get a trim kit to install it in your current microwave space.

Cons

No convection feature.

Find out more about Frigidaire microwave models in this article.

FAQs

Question: Are Amana and Whirlpool the Same?

Answer: The Amana brand is owned by Whirlpool, which gained the brand after acquiring Maytag – which owned Amana – back in 2006. Amana and Whirlpool are two different brands with different products in the market.

Question: How Long is the Warranty on Amana’s Microwaves?

Answer: Amana offers a one-year limited warranty on all its microwaves.

Question: How Old is Amana?

Answer: The Amana brand was founded in 1934, making it 88 years old in 2022.

Should You Buy an Amana Microwave?

Consider Amana’s countertop model as it is the most powerful, and it has extra features like sensor cooking. You can also buy a trim kit and integrate it into your cabinetry if you don’t want to use up countertop space. If you’re looking for an over-the-range microwave, the Amana UMV1160CB model offers more value as it has almost similar features to its more expensive counterpart but at almost $100 less.