1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Sharp R971STW Combi Microwave Oven. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your appliance. Please read these instructions thoroughly before use and keep them for future reference.
2. Important Safety Instructions
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should be followed, including the following:
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Do not attempt to operate this oven with the door open as this can result in harmful exposure to microwave energy.
- Do not place any object between the oven front face and the door or allow soil or cleaner residue to accumulate on sealing surfaces.
- Do not operate the oven if it is damaged. It is particularly important that the oven door closes properly and that there is no damage to the door, hinges, or seals.
- Only qualified service personnel should adjust or repair the oven.
- Ensure the appliance is properly grounded.
- Do not heat liquids or other foods in sealed containers as they are liable to explode.
- Do not use corrosive chemicals or vapors in this appliance.
- Always use oven mitts when handling hot items from the oven.
3. Setup and Installation
3.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove the microwave oven from its packaging. Remove all packing materials, including any protective film or tape. Inspect the oven for any damage. If the oven appears damaged, do not operate it and contact your retailer.
3.2 Placement
Place the oven on a flat, stable surface that can support its weight. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the oven. Maintain a minimum clearance of 10 cm (4 inches) at the rear, 20 cm (8 inches) at the sides, and 30 cm (12 inches) above the oven for proper airflow.
Do not place the oven near heat sources such as radiators or stoves, or in areas with high humidity.
3.3 Electrical Connection
Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet. Ensure the voltage and frequency of the power supply match the specifications on the oven's rating label.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Control Panel Overview
The Sharp R971STW features a touchscreen control panel for intuitive operation. Familiarize yourself with the display and buttons before use.

Figure 1: Front view of the Sharp R971STW Combi Microwave Oven, showing the door, display, and touchscreen control panel on the right.
The control panel typically includes:
- Display: Shows time, cooking settings, and status.
- Function Buttons: For Microwave, Grill, Convection, Combi, Defrost.
- Power Level/Temperature Buttons: To adjust cooking intensity or temperature.
- Time/Weight Input: Buttons or dial to set cooking time or food weight.
- Start/Stop Buttons: To begin or end cooking.
- Express Cook Buttons: For quick start cooking.
4.2 Setting the Clock
- Press the "Clock" button (if available) or refer to the specific instructions on the control panel.
- Use the number buttons to enter the current time.
- Press "Clock" or "Start" to confirm.
4.3 Microwave Cooking
- Place food in a microwave-safe dish and place it on the turntable.
- Close the oven door securely.
- Press the "Microwave" button.
- Select the desired power level (e.g., 100% for high, 50% for medium).
- Enter the cooking time using the number buttons.
- Press "Start" to begin cooking.
4.4 Combi Cooking (Microwave + Grill/Convection)
Combi cooking combines microwave power with grill or convection heat for faster cooking and browning results.
- Place food on the appropriate rack (if provided) in the oven.
- Press the "Combi" button.
- Select the desired combi mode (e.g., Microwave + Grill, Microwave + Convection).
- Set the microwave power level and/or convection temperature as required.
- Enter the cooking time.
- Press "Start".
4.5 Grill Function
- Place food on the grill rack.
- Press the "Grill" button.
- Enter the desired grilling time.
- Press "Start".
4.6 Convection Function
- Place food in an oven-safe dish.
- Press the "Convection" button.
- Set the desired temperature.
- Enter the cooking time.
- Press "Start". The oven may preheat before cooking begins.
4.7 Defrost Function
The defrost function allows you to thaw frozen food by weight or time.
- Place frozen food in the oven.
- Press the "Defrost" button.
- Select defrost by weight or time.
- Enter the weight or time.
- Press "Start".
4.8 Programmable Features
The oven includes programmable features for multi-stage cooking. Refer to the specific instructions on your control panel for setting up programmed cooking sequences.
5. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your microwave oven.
- Interior: Clean the oven cavity after each use with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For stubborn stains, place a bowl of water with lemon juice inside and microwave for a few minutes to loosen residue.
- Exterior: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Turntable: The glass turntable and rotating ring can be removed and washed in warm soapy water or in a dishwasher. Ensure they are dry before placing them back in the oven.
- Door Seals: Keep the door seals clean to ensure proper closure and prevent microwave leakage.
- Grill/Convection Elements: For grill and convection functions, ensure the interior is clean of food debris to prevent smoke or odors.
Always unplug the oven before cleaning.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your microwave oven, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Oven does not start | Power cord not plugged in; Door not closed properly; Fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped. | Ensure plug is securely in outlet; Close door firmly; Check household fuse/circuit breaker. |
| Food not cooking evenly | Food not stirred or turned; Incorrect power level/time; Turntable not rotating. | Stir or turn food during cooking; Adjust power/time; Ensure turntable and ring are correctly placed. |
| Oven light not working | Bulb needs replacement. | Contact qualified service personnel for bulb replacement. |
| Excessive steam inside oven | High moisture content in food. | This is normal for some foods. Wipe interior after use. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact customer support.
7. Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the Sharp R971STW Combi Microwave Oven:
- Model Number: R971STW
- Brand: SHARP
- Type: Combi Microwave Oven
- Capacity: 40 Liters
- Wattage: 1050 watts
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Installation Type: Freestanding
- Special Features: Defrost, Programmable
- Product Dimensions (D x W x H): 53.5 cm x 55 cm x 36.8 cm
- Weight: 23 kg
- Included Components: Turntable ring

Figure 2: Side view of the Sharp R971STW Combi Microwave Oven, illustrating its dimensions: 55cm width, 53.5cm depth, and 36.8cm height.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official SHARP website. For technical support, service, or spare parts, please contact your local SHARP customer service center. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





