Are Kenmore microwaves good?
Kenmore microwaves are a good choice for everyday reheating and cooking when you pick the right size and use them correctly. For Kenmore model 20479399610, the 20479399610 use and care guide lists 2.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1250W rated microwave output, which is strong full-size countertop performance.
What “good” means in real use
We judge a countertop microwave on practical factors that affect results and longevity:
- Heating performance: rated output wattage and how evenly food heats
- Capacity and fit: interior space, turntable size, and exterior clearance
- Ease of use: control layout, presets, and display readability
- Reliability basics: door latches, ventilation, and safe operation
- Maintenance: cleaning habits and avoiding arcing materials
Kenmore 20479399610 key specs (from the manual)
These specs help set expectations for speed, space, and countertop fit.
| Spec | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Rated output power (microwave) | 1250W | Faster heating than many 900W units; better for larger portions |
| Oven capacity | 2.2 cu. ft. | More room for larger dishes and family-size reheating |
| Turntable diameter | 16.54 in. | Fits wider plates and casserole dishes |
| External dimensions (H x W x D) | 14.17 x 24.72 x 20.71 in. | Helps confirm countertop clearance and cabinet spacing |
Habits that keep a microwave “good” longer
Many performance complaints come from cookware choices, airflow, or cleaning issues.
- Use microwave-safe cookware; avoid metal that can arc
- Keep ventilation ports clear so heat can escape
- Use the right power level instead of always cooking on High
- Do not use the oven cavity for storage
- Clean door-contact surfaces with mild, nonabrasive soap and a soft cloth
If you are judging “good” by heating results
If the microwave runs but does not heat, the problem is usually in the heating circuit, not the turntable. Use why is my microwave not heating to narrow down likely causes.
Why it matters
A microwave can seem “bad” when the real issue is fit (too small), airflow (overheating), or technique (wrong power level). Starting with the model’s rated output, capacity, and safe-use rules helps you get consistent results and longer life.
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is a Kenmore Model 20479399610 microwave?
The Kenmore countertop microwave model 20479399610 has an oven capacity of 2.2 cubic feet. You can confirm this in the specifications section of the owner's manual.
Where to find the capacity (and related specs)
In the manual for Kenmore 20479399610, the capacity is listed as “Oven Capacity: 2.2 cu. ft.” along with other key specifications.
- Model covered: 20479399610 (also listed with 20479393610 in the same guide)
- Oven capacity: 2.2 cu. ft.
- Rated output power (microwave): 1250W
- Turntable diameter: 16.54 inches
- External dimensions: 14.17 x 24.72 x 20.71 inches
Quick spec snapshot
| Spec | Kenmore 20479399610 value |
|---|---|
| Oven capacity | 2.2 cu. ft. |
| Output power | 1250W |
| Turntable diameter | 16.54 in. |
| External dimensions (H x W x D) | 14.17 x 24.72 x 20.71 in. |
Why it matters
Capacity (cubic feet) helps you judge what will fit inside the microwave (larger dinner plates, covered casserole dishes, and taller containers) and whether the exterior size will work on your countertop with proper ventilation clearances.
For placement and airflow guidance, we recommend following the clearance and venting instructions in the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What is a standard size countertop microwave?
A “standard size” countertop microwave is usually about 20 to 24 inches wide, 12 to 14 inches tall, and 16 to 20 inches deep. For Kenmore 20479399610, the external dimensions are 14.17 x 24.72 x 20.71 inches (H x W x D); confirm fit details in the 20479399610 owner's manual.
Standard countertop microwave size ranges
Most countertop microwaves fit into these common size groups:
- Compact: 0.7 to 1.0 cu. ft.; often 17 to 20 inches wide
- Mid-size: 1.1 to 1.6 cu. ft.; often 20 to 22 inches wide
- Full-size: 1.7 to 2.2 cu. ft.; often 22 to 25 inches wide
Kenmore 20479399610 dimensions and planning notes
This Kenmore model is a full-size countertop microwave, so plan for a wider footprint and ventilation space.
| Measurement or spec | Kenmore 20479399610 | What to check at home |
|---|---|---|
| External dimensions (H x W x D) | 14.17 x 24.72 x 20.71 in. | Cabinet depth, door swing, and counter space |
| Oven capacity | 2.2 cu. ft. | Interior space for larger dishes |
| Turntable diameter | 16.54 in. | Plate and casserole dish clearance |
How we recommend measuring before you replace a countertop microwave
Use these steps to avoid clearance and airflow problems:
- Measure the countertop footprint (width and depth) where the microwave will sit.
- Leave ventilation clearance around the cabinet; do not block intake or exhaust vents.
- Confirm the door opens fully without hitting a wall, backsplash, or cabinet pull.
- Check the outlet location so the cord reaches without stretching or using an unsafe setup.
Why it matters
Two microwaves with the same capacity can have different exterior dimensions. Matching the width and depth prevents blocked airflow, overheating, and a door that cannot open comfortably.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I find my Kenmore microwave model number?
On Kenmore countertop microwave model 20479399610, the model number is printed on the rating label. You will typically find that label on the door frame area when you open the door, or on the back of the microwave cabinet. Confirm the exact location in the owner's manual.
Common places to check
- Open the door and look along the front frame/door jamb (often near the latch side)
- Check the inside edge of the control panel area (visible with the door open)
- Look on the back panel of the microwave
- Check the side panel of the cabinet (less common on countertop units)
What the label looks like
The rating label usually includes the model number plus electrical specs (for example, voltage and wattage). For this Kenmore series, the manual lists the model as 204.79399610/204.79393610, so the label may show a closely related model format.
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 20479399610 | Your exact model number | Use it to match parts and documentation |
| 204.79399610 | Same model shown with punctuation | Treat it as the same model when searching |
| 204.79393610 | Closely related model in the same manual | Match parts by your exact label first |
Why it matters
We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore microwave parts list, wiring information, and troubleshooting steps. Even small model-number differences can change which door switches, fuses, or control components fit.
Last updated: February 2026


