Hey Amy,

We use the microwave a lot and have combo micro/convection now that I really like so when it came time for the remodel, I did a ton of research. I decided on the Whirlpool Velos - It's OTR but we're going to put it over a counter. It's not cheap (about $850) but much cheaper than the KA or GE versions. It does everything and is large enough be a second oven since it's also a convection oven and a broiler/crisper. (it can hold a pan of lasagne!) The key for me was how many foods it had built in recipes for and how easy it would be for DH and DS to use. The names of the foods come up on the screenand there's a Kids Food menu!!! No more heating up all the foods on max power until they're jelly!!

There's a whole thread on it below. YOu can see the Velos at Sears. Expo doesn't have it on the floor.

Here is a link that might be useful: Velos thread

Try posting your question in the appliance forum. Tell them the price range you are looking for.

Here is a link that might be useful: Appliance Forum

IMHO it is hard to beat a panasonic microwave; they also do OTR

We just installed an Insinkerator cover control 3/4 hp garbage disposal. It is very quiet and so far seems to do a good job. It cost $238 through Lowes. We had to order it but got it in 4 days.

As to Garbage Disposals, I think any of the Insinkerator Evolution GDs are fine. Just stay away from the Badgers.

Evolution Series: Evolution ExcelÂ, Evolution EssentialÂ, Evolution CompactÂ, Evolution Cover ControlÂ, Evolution Septic AssistÂ

As to others, I don't know...but get one w/at least 3/4 hp

I cannot help you w/OTR MWs...I don't like them so I haven't done any research on them.

Here is a link that might be useful: ISE Evolution Series

I'll second buehl's recommendation on the Insinkerator Evolution, and for 3/4 hp. We've had some Badger's before - when their warranty was up, two or three days later, died. So I wouldn't buy another Badger.

I know there are those on here who won't touch anything that says "Maytag" on it. But so far we are very happy with our Maytag OTR microwave. We bought ours from the military exchange system in order to save on sales tax (almost 8% here). They didn't have one in stock but I had it within a week. It took them longer to get the Maytag range, but it came the day before it needed to be installed in my kitchen.

DonnaR/CA

I suggest a Waste King 1HP, lifetime warranty (Legend model 9980)- you can pick one up for $179.99.

Cheaper that the insinkerator's, and with a lifetime warranty.

Here is a link that might be useful: waste king 9980

The GE micro/convection combo is less than $600.

My disposal is an Insinkerator Premier 3/4 HP and I couldn't be happier with it. It handles everything I give it and it is very quiet (for a disposal). DH and I are amazed that we can have a conversation while it is running and not have to raise our voices a bit.

I spent at least six months researching the major appliances for my kitchen, but I didn't give the disposal more than a quick 10-minute search here on GW. And the ironic thing is that I am the most pleased with this appliance out of all of my purchases!

I bought mine at Lowe's with a 10% off coupon. It was in stock.

Nicole

We have VERY tight space under the sink, and the Badger is smaller than even the compact evolution, which was actually the main reason we chose it. It's absolutely fine so far. It has a 2 year warrantee and I sure hope it doesn't die after that, but really... wasn't such an expensive item anyway ($70, maybe? It's the Badger 5) and we don't use it that hard, so I guess we'll see!

The built in exhaust in the OTR MC is an issue you should also consider. This depends on at least 2 issues: (1) whether you can exhaust to the outside, which is preferable; (2) your cooking habits. Generally, OTR MCs do not exhaust as well as separate range hoods. But if your space is limited and you need the OTR go with it, and be aware that you will not get optimal exhaust capacity, which means with certain kinds of cooking, some odors may spread and linger in the house. You can get an OTR MC that exhausts to the outside, and should seriously consider one if your range is on an outside wall and that kind of venting is possible. If not, make sure you get one with a really good recirculating filter. Consumer Reports rates them for that feature and other features as well.

We really love our Jenn Air OTR microwave oven. The model # was JMV8208SS. Regular price was around 750 but we negotiated down for 550.00 It is vented to the outside. It looks sleek, is silent and has great features. Like the other posters, we went with the forum suggestion and got an Insinkerator from Lowes and love it. Hope this helps.

We had a GE previous and it was good. We've have a white Panasonic Inverter OTR for the last 3 yrs and LOVE it. It can be vented out or with filters. It has 3 speed fan which I really like and it isn't too noisy either. It cooks great, has a turntable (on/off option), night light (dim/bright) and quick start buttons. We purchased it from Sears. It is the best microwave I've owned. Since the remodel we changed our appliances to SS so now I'm hoping to find the same in SS.
HTH