Microwave ovens work differently than traditional ovens or stovetops, and they generally do not generate as much heat in the kitchen. However, it's important to understand how microwave ovens work and their limitations regarding heating.
Microwave ovens use microwave radiation to cook food. These microwaves excite water molecules and other polarized molecules in the food, causing them to vibrate and generate heat. The heat is produced directly within the food, not within the oven itself. This is in contrast to traditional ovens and stovetops, which primarily heat the air or surfaces surrounding the food to cook it.
Because of the nature of microwave cooking, the heat is concentrated inside the food, and less heat is dispersed into the surrounding environment. As a result, the kitchen tends to stay relatively cooler when using a microwave compared to traditional cooking methods like baking in an oven or cooking on a stovetop.
However, it's essential to note that while microwave cooking is generally more efficient in terms of not heating up the kitchen, the microwave itself can still become warm during use. The heat generated by the microwave's electronic components and the hot food inside may contribute to a slight increase in the kitchen's temperature.
If you're looking to minimize the heat produced in the kitchen during cooking, using a microwave oven for certain dishes can be a good option. Additionally, you can consider other cooking methods like grilling outside or using countertop appliances that produce less heat, such as a slow cooker, toaster oven, or induction cooktop. These alternative methods can help you cook without heating up the kitchen as much as using a conventional oven or stovetop.