Do you know how to take care of your microwave? It’s not as simple as just popping in a pizza and pressing start (gosh, now I’m wishing for pizza ha-ha). Like any other appliance in your home, your microwave needs occasional maintenance to keep it running its best.
In this kitchen guide, I’ll show you how to keep your microwave clean and functioning properly (not physically, so don’t be alarmed). I’ll also cover some common problems that can occur with microwaves and offer some tips for fixing them. So, whether you’re a new homeowner or just looking to refresh your knowledge on microwave maintenance, read on for my top tips!
How long does a microwave oven last?
Microwave ovens are one of the most important kitchen appliances (well, to me at least). They help us to reheat food, cook food quickly and defrost frozen food. However, like all appliances, microwave ovens have a limited lifespan. The average microwave oven will last for about 10 years before it needs to be replaced.
However, there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your microwave oven. First, be sure to clean it regularly. Microwave ovens can develop rust and other corrosion if they are not cleaned on a regular basis – this is primarily due to the build up of moisture.
Second, be careful not to overuse your microwave oven. If you find that you are using it multiple times per day, it is probably time to upgrade to a larger model so that the microwave can handle your reheating demand easier.
Finally, be sure to protect your microwave oven from electrical surges. If you live in an area prone to thunderstorms, consider investing in a surge protector for your home. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your microwave oven lasts (a bit) longer.
Can microwaves be repaired?
While some repairs may require the help of a professional, there are a few simple fixes that can be easily handled at home. For example, if the microwave doesn’t seem to be heating food properly, the problem may simply be a dirty microwave oven cavity. Trust me, I learnt this the hard way and stealing with eyes, while the technician was hard at work 🙂
In this case, the solution is to simply clean the inside of the microwave with soapy water and a soft cloth, focusing specifically on removing any grime on the cavities that may have built up over time.
If the door seal is damaged or loose, it can also be replaced relatively easily. In most cases, replacement seals can be purchased online or at a local hardware store.
While these are just a few examples, with a little bit of research, most people should be able to find instructions for repairing their particular model of microwave.
Are microwaves worth repairing?
Microwaves are one of those appliances that we often take for granted – until they stop working. When this happens, we’re left with the decision of whether to repair or replace the appliance. There are a few things to consider when making this decision:
1. Cost of repairs
If the cost of repairs is close to the cost of a new microwave, it might make more sense to just buy a new one. However, if the repairs are relatively cheap then it might be worth it to keep your existing microwave. Again, this will be determined by the extent of damages to the microwave.
2. Age of the microwave
If your microwave is several years old, it might be time for an upgrade anyway.
3. How often you use your microwave
Think about how often you use your microwave. If you only use it occasionally, it might not be worth the hassle or expense to repair or replace it.
Ultimately, only you can decide whether repairing or replacing your microwave is the right choice for you.
What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?
Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Making strange noises
If your microwave is making strange noises, this could be a sign that something is wrong (obviously #eye-roll). If you notice a humming, crackling, or popping sound, it is best to unplug the appliance and call a repair person (yes, there is something wrong and it’s not communicating with you, in case there was any doubt).
2. It does not seal properly
Another sign that your microwave is on its last legs is if the door doesn’t seal properly. If there is a gap between the door and the frame, steam and heat can escape. This can cause problems with the cooking process and also pose a safety hazard.
3. Food is not cooking evenly
If your food isn’t cooking evenly, this is another telltale sign that there is an issue with your microwave. If you notice that your food is overcooked in some spots and undercooked in others, it’s time to get a new appliance.
If you have noticed any of these signs, it may be time to start shopping for a new microwave. However, if the problem is something small, such as a loose door seal then it may be worth your time calling a repair person to take a look at it.
What happens when a microwave overheats?
When a microwave overheats, it doesn’t just stop cooking your food. In fact, if you don’t take care of the problem right away, it can cause a fire. Here’s what happens: the microwaves produced by the microwave heat up the water molecules in your food, which in turn produces steam [1].
If the steam has nowhere to go, it will build up inside the microwave until it reaches a temperature that is high enough to ignite something else in the microwaves, like wax paper, paper plates or plastic containers.
And once something catches on fire inside your microwave, it can be incredibly difficult to put it out. So, if you notice that your microwave is starting to overheat, be sure to unplug it right away and call a professional to have it repaired.
How to get rid of condensation in microwave door
One of the most annoying things that can happen while cooking is when your microwave door starts to get covered in condensation. It’s not only frustrating, but it can also make it difficult to see what’s inside. If you’re looking for a way to get rid of condensation in your microwave door, there are a few things you can try.
One simple solution is to leave the door open for a few minutes after cooking or between reheating cycles. This will allow the steam to escape and the door to dry. Another option is to wipe the door down with a clean, dry cloth after cooking – preferably one that has a high absorptive material type.
If you’re dealing with persistent condensation, you may need to adjust the ventilation in your kitchen. Improving ventilation will help to reduce moisture in the air and prevent condensation from forming on surfaces. With a little troubleshooting, you can say goodbye to those pesky water droplets once and for all.
Wrapping Up: Does a microwave need maintenance?
All in all, we think it’s fair to say that microwaves are pretty low-maintenance appliances. As long as you keep it clean and don’t overload it, your microwave should give you years of faithful service. And if you ever do run into problems, remember: there’s always the Internet – or your friendly neighborhood Spiderman, I mean, appliance repair person – to help you out.
Thanks for reading!
Here are some additional reading material regarding the use of microwave ovens:
Charlene Gallant
Charlene is a lover of good food. She enjoys nothing more than cooking up a storm in the kitchen and sharing her favourite recipes with her readers. She also enjoys reading a good book.