Bought this when my 1100 watt Sharp died after 10 years. Have been intrigued by the concept of convection microwaves. Now understand that this is, essentially, a countertop oven that also happens to microwave.
Dimensions of the product, out of the box, are 12.25 high x 20.25 long x 14.5 deep BUT it just barely fits on our 17 inch deep microwave shelf. Why? Because behind the microwave "case" there are about 2 more inches of metal for the oven AND our outlet is directly behind the microwave, which means the plug takes up depth. On our 17" deep shelf there is about a 1/4" inch between where the feet of the microwave are and the edge of the shelf. Microwave door is just over the shelf. Plan for a real-life depth of 20 or 21 inches because:
Another surprise we received were Haier's recommendations for clearance around the microwave. They advise:
. 3" clearance behind
. 3" inch clearance on one side
. completely open on the other side
. 12" clearance above the microwave - so they want you to have a total of about 25" from countertop to bottom of cabinet (or anything else) above the microwave. In our kitchen, actual distance from countertop to cabinet bottom is about 19".
Why do they recommend this much clearance? While the microwave and grill portions of the oven work just fine without getting the unit too hot, if you plan to use the convection portion, watch out. The unit becomes EXTREMELY hot on the top and rear. For this reason, we're not using much of this feature, which kind of defeats the idea of getting a convection microwave. But for the price, looks, and other functions, overall we're pleased.
Some other cons:
. Cooking plates get H*O*T, even when you just use the microwave function. Definitely need potholders to handle when removing from microwave, even after as little as 2-3 minutes.
. Clock on the unit has a nice blue backlight, but this turns itself off and one cannot read the microwave clock without pushing a button to get the light to go back on. Don't plan on using your microwave as your visible clock in the kitchen.
. Must set the cook time using the dial or +30s button. If you want to put something on for, say 20 minutes, there are no number buttons to push. One just spins the dial until the time desired, or push the +30s second button 10 times. It's possible we'll eventually view this as a pro.
Pros:
. Cooks well. I find that the cooking speed is about the same with the 1000 watt Haier as it was with our 1100 watt Sharp - maybe just a hair slower.
. Rotates food for even cooking, and changes rotation direction when you open the door to stir and then re-start.
. Defrost function works well for us. Even, without cooking the edges.
. Looks good.
. Like the combination feature - can set microwave and grill with one setting.
. Could replace or be used instead of a regular oven.
. Good size for family. Easily fits 9x9 pan.
Given that we have a toaster oven and wall ovens, now that I really understand that a convection microwave is essentially a countertop oven, I might buy a regular microwave next time. But this is a good little oven that also looks great, and was a great price.