If you've spent any time on the road, you know that a high point rv microwave is basically the heart of your tiny kitchen. It's the difference between having a hot breakfast in two minutes or struggling with a damp campfire and a cold bagel. Most of us don't really think about our microwaves until they stop working or start making a sound like a jet engine taking off in the middle of a quiet campground.
High Point has been a staple in the RV industry for years. You'll find them pre-installed in everything from Forest River trailers to high-end fifth wheels. They're built to handle the bumps and vibrations of the highway, but they aren't invincible. Whether you're trying to figure out why yours won't spin or you're looking to replace an old unit that finally gave up the ghost, there's a lot to consider.
Why These Units Are So Common in RVs
You might wonder why so many manufacturers choose a high point rv microwave over a name brand you'd find at a big-box store. The answer usually comes down to size and "fitment." RV cabinets are notoriously shallow. A standard residential microwave is often too deep to sit flush in an RV galley. High Point designs their units specifically for these tight spaces, ensuring they can be braced properly so they don't fly out of the wall when you hit a pothole in Nebraska.
Another reason they're everywhere is the trim kit. If you've ever tried to swap a microwave, you know the trim kit is the biggest headache. High Point makes kits that look integrated, which keeps the interior of your rig looking clean and professional rather than like something you just slapped together.
The Reality of Power Consumption
One thing you've probably noticed is that your high point rv microwave is a bit of a power hog. This isn't unique to the brand, but it's something you have to manage when you're living on 30-amp service. If you try to run the microwave while the air conditioner is kicking on and your partner is using a hair dryer, you're going to be walking outside to reset the pedestal breaker in your pajamas.
Most of these units pull between 900 and 1500 watts depending on the model. If you're boondocking (camping without hookups), you really have to watch your battery bank and inverter. Even with a beefy lithium setup, the microwave is usually the thing that drains the most juice in the shortest amount of time. It's always a good idea to shut off other high-draw appliances for the two minutes you're heating up your coffee.
Common Issues and Easy Fixes
It's frustrating when you press the "Start" button and nothing happens. Before you assume your high point rv microwave is dead, check the most obvious culprit: the glass turntable. In an RV, these things shift constantly. If the tray isn't perfectly aligned on the little plastic wheels, the motor might jam or make a clicking sound.
Another common quirk is the door sensor. Since trailers flex while they move, sometimes the door frame gets slightly out of alignment. If the microwave thinks the door is open, it won't start. A firm slam (though not too hard!) sometimes fixes the "door" error message, but often it's just a sign that the microswitch inside needs a little adjustment or cleaning.
If the display is completely dark, don't panic yet. Most of these units have an internal glass fuse. You usually have to pull the microwave out of the cabinet and take the metal shell off to find it, but it's a $2 part that can save you from spending $300 on a new unit. Just make sure you've unplugged it first—microwaves hold a lot of electricity even when they're off, and you don't want a nasty shock.
Dealing With the "Beep"
Let's talk about the sound. Most High Point models are famous for their persistence. When the timer hits zero, they don't just beep once; they remind you every thirty seconds that your food is sitting there. If you're a late-night snacker and you don't want to wake up everyone in the bunkhouse, you've probably developed the "ninja move" where you stop the microwave at exactly 0:01.
Unfortunately, many of the older models don't have a "silent mode." Newer versions are getting better, but for the most part, the loud beep is just part of the High Point experience. It's one of those little "RV charms" we all just learn to live with.
The Convection Microwave Upgrade
If your rig came with a standard microwave, you might be looking at the high point rv microwave convection oven models as an upgrade. These are pretty cool because they act as both a microwave and a traditional oven. If you've ever tried to bake a decent pizza or a tray of cookies in a standard RV propane oven, you know how uneven the heat can be. The bottom burns while the top stays raw.
A convection microwave uses a fan to circulate hot air, which is way more reliable. The downside? They are heavy. If you're swapping a standard microwave for a convection unit, you absolutely have to make sure your cabinet can support the extra weight. You'll also need to ensure there's enough ventilation, as convection ovens get much hotter on the outside than a regular microwave does.
Installation and Replacement Tips
So, your old microwave finally kicked it. Finding a direct replacement for a high point rv microwave can be a bit of a hunt. Because models change every few years, the exact one you have might be discontinued. The trick is to measure the "cutout" dimensions—the hole in the cabinet—rather than the microwave itself.
When you buy a replacement, try to get one that includes the trim kit. Reusing an old trim kit with a different model is a recipe for frustration. The screw holes never line up, and you'll end up with gaps that look messy.
When you're installing the new one, take an extra minute to check the mounting bracket. RVs vibrate a lot. If that bracket isn't secured into a stud or a solid piece of plywood, your microwave is eventually going to start sagging. I always like to add a couple of extra-long wood screws just for peace of mind.
Keeping It Clean on the Road
Cleaning a microwave is nobody's favorite chore, but it's actually more important in an RV. Because of the humidity in small spaces, food splatters can lead to mold or just make the whole rig smell like yesterday's taco meat.
The easiest way to clean your high point rv microwave is the "steam trick." Put a bowl of water with a couple of lemon slices in there and run it for three minutes. Let it sit for another five minutes without opening the door. The steam loosens up all the baked-on gunk, and you can just wipe it out with a paper towel. It's way better than scrubbing with harsh chemicals in a space with limited ventilation.
When Is It Time to Let Go?
Sometimes, it's just not worth fixing. If your microwave starts smelling like burnt wires or if the keypad stops responding to half of your touches, it's probably time to move on. These units are workhorses, but they do have a shelf life, especially if you do a lot of rough-road traveling.
The good news is that a new high point rv microwave isn't a massive investment in the grand scheme of RV maintenance. It's one of those upgrades that pays off every single day when you can finally heat up your leftovers without a struggle.
Living in an RV is all about managing your resources and keeping your gear in good shape. Your microwave might seem like a simple box, but keeping it running smoothly makes life on the road a whole lot more comfortable. Whether you're a full-timer or a weekend warrior, having a reliable way to cook is one of those small luxuries that makes your camper feel like a real home.