Advice on how long to cook foods and how this applies to instructions given on packages. Time-to-Boil wattage test to determine if your microwave oven is high-power or low-power.

Microwave ovens are available in a range of power levels. However, most recipes are written for a 700-watt oven (the industry standard). If you own an oven other than a 700-watt oven, you will need to convert the cooking times to accommodate the difference in wattages.

When recipes give a range of time, such as eight to 10 minutes per pound, it is difficult to know exactly which timing to use to ensure the food is cooked. The test below from the International Microwave Power Institute can help determine your oven's cooking speed.

From a container of half ice and half water, pour one cup of water (no ice) into a glass-measuring cup. Place in the centre of the microwave oven. Heat on high power for five minutes or until the water begins to boil. If water begins to boil in less than three minutes, consider your oven 'high power', if longer, the oven is 'low power'.

When using recipes and package directions, set a 'high power' microwave oven for the minimum recommended time. If your oven is 'low power,' it probably will take a longer time. However always check that food is cooked properly by using the indicators recipes and packages describe, such as internal temperatures and visual appearance.