To make your microwave last longer, you should take good care of it. Most microwave manufacturers say that they should last around 10 years. You can do this by keeping it clean, even though it may not get as dirty as your oven. Wipe the inside of the microwave when you see a mess, and clean the grease filters regularly, especially if you cook greasy foods often. In this guide, we will cover the topic of how to make your microwave last longer.
Why is it important?
- Firstly, it saves you money and reduces the frequency of having to replace it.
- Secondly, it reduces waste by extending the life of the appliance.
- Lastly, it’s better for the environment as manufacturing and disposing of microwaves have a negative impact.
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How to make your Microwave Last Longer
It is very easy to make microwaves long-lasting by keeping in mind the following important things.
The door shouldn’t be slammed!
Your microwave door has safety switches that stop the oven from working when it’s open. These switches need to be in the right place when the door is closed, or the microwave won’t work.
Slamming the door can break the plastic parts that control the switches, and if any of them break, the microwave might not work. So, be gentle with the door when you close it.
The Clean up Quickly
It is important to clean up any spills inside your microwave as soon as they happen to avoid any damage. Leftover bits of food can absorb the microwave’s energy, which can create a hotspot and cause damage to the inside of the microwave.
Be careful not to scratch the protective mesh inside the door if it is exposed because it prevents microwaves from escaping and potentially causing harm.
Damage is equal to Metal
Microwaves work well with plastics, ceramics, and glass, but not with metals. Metals can cause sparks, burn the sides and cause irreparable damage. So, you should avoid putting metal utensils or dishes with metal trim or silver or gold plating in your microwave. Aluminum foil can be used but only if it is wrapped tightly around the food.
The Exhaust Fan is Turning On
The exhaust fan in an OTR microwave isn’t as powerful as a range hood fan, but you should still use it while cooking. Moisture from cooking can collect on the microwave’s electronics and cause damage, especially if the exhaust fan isn’t on.
A technical expert at Sears Home Services named Wayne Archer recommends using the fan and wiping off any collected moisture with a soft cloth or paper towel to help prolong your microwave’s life.
Preprogramme is keeping up
The importance of using pre-programmed times on your microwave. Mistakes like overcooking food can destroy the microwave. By using the pre-programmed times, you can trust that the microwave will work correctly and efficiently without overstepping its boundaries. This will extend the life of the microwave
Don’t try to do it yourself
At some point, all appliances may need repair, and microwaves are no exception. Microwave capacitors store electric charges that can be dangerous, even if the appliance is unplugged for a few days. If you try to repair the microwave yourself, you could get electrocuted or harm the device. It is best to contact a professional repair service like Repair Aid, which offers a 12-month warranty on all repairs, to safely and expertly fix the problem.
Grease Filter is Degreaser
The filters on the underside of the microwave trap steam and cooking fumes, but they can make your microwave run less efficiently and even cause a fire hazard if they get too dirty. It’s essential to clean these filters regularly by sliding them out and soaking them in a sink filled with hot water and a degreasing dish detergent.
You can wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Some filters are dishwasher safe, but it’s always better to check the owner’s manual first. If the filter no longer fits well, it’s time to replace it.
Running it on empty
In some cases, people accidentally turn on their microwave when it’s empty, thinking they only set the timer. If it only runs for a short time, there’s no damage done. However, if there is nothing in the microwave to absorb the microwaves, it can overheat and cause burn marks on the interior.
This is because there are no water molecules to excite, which can cause the microwaves to concentrate in one area of the cavity and damage it.
The Electronics Never Attempt to Repair Yourself
If your microwave is broken, don’t try to fix it yourself as you could get electrocuted. Even after it’s unplugged, the capacitor can hold an electrical charge at thousands of volts for hours or days. According to RepairClinic.com, it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals, as capacitors store and release energy that can be harmful to people. It’s also a costly repair, so consider getting an estimate first, as it might be cheaper to replace the microwave.
Prevention of Damage
To prevent damage to your microwave, use it properly and keep it in good condition. Use only containers that are safe for microwaves and avoid putting metal or anything conductive inside. Keep the inside of the microwave clean and dry, and regularly check that the door seal is intact.
Follow the instructions for use and don’t overload the microwave. By doing these things, you can help make sure that your microwave lasts a long time and doesn’t become a safety hazard.
Proper usage and Maintenance
Proper usage and maintenance of your microwave mean using it correctly and taking care of it so that it works well and lasts a long time. This includes following the manufacturer’s instructions, not overloading it, and using microwave-safe containers.
Keeping the inside clean and dry and wiping up any spills promptly are also important. Additionally, you should inspect the door seal regularly and make sure it is intact. Routine maintenance may involve cleaning the interior, checking the turntable, and replacing the light bulb or any worn parts as needed.
By using your microwave properly and maintaining it well, you can help avoid safety hazards and extend its lifespan.
Repairs and Replacements
If your microwave needs repairs or replacements, it’s important to take action promptly to avoid safety hazards and ensure it continues to function effectively. This may involve identifying the problem, consulting the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional technician, and ordering any necessary replacement parts.
Common repairs may include fixing or replacing the door seal, replacing the fuse, or repairing a malfunctioning turntable. If your microwave is under warranty, you may be able to have it repaired or replaced at no cost.
FAQs
Q1. How do I extend the life of my microwave?
To keep your microwave safe and functioning well, make sure it has enough air circulation and use a surge protector to protect against electrical surges. Don’t put metal inside, and use mild soap and water to clean. And never turn the microwave on when it’s empty.
Q2. Do microwaves weaken over time?
Microwaves can lose power as they age, but people might not notice and accidentally adjust cooking times. According to Anantheswaran, you can fix this by replacing the magnetron in the microwave.
Q3. How to damage a microwave?
Some items you should never put in the microwave include aluminum foil, anything with metal or stainless steel, single-use plastic, takeout containers, Styrofoam, water, raw spicy peppers, and eggs.
Q4. How many years can a Microwave last
It’s a good idea to consider replacing your microwave once it reaches the seven-year mark, but a well-made one from a trusted brand can last up to ten years. However, after a decade, you’ll likely start to notice a decline in performance, and it may not work as well as it used to.
Q5. Why do microwaves keep Dying?
If your microwave isn’t working at all, the most common reason is a blown main fuse. The main fuse is responsible for interrupting the flow of electricity if too much current passes through it.
This is an important safety feature that can prevent damage to the microwave or even a fire. If your microwave suddenly stops working and won’t turn back on, the main fuse is often the first thing you should check.
However, if you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to call a professional technician to replace the fuse for you.
Conclusion
It’s important to use it properly and maintain it regularly. This means following the manufacturer’s instructions, not overloading it, and using microwave-safe containers. Keeping the inside clean and dry, wiping up spills promptly, and inspecting the door seal is also essential.
Using a surge protector and not turning on the microwave when it’s empty can also help prevent damage. Regular maintenance may involve cleaning the interior, checking the turntable, and replacing worn parts as needed. By taking care of your microwave and addressing any issues promptly, you can extend its lifespan and save money in the long run.
We hope you will be well aware of How to make your Microwave last longer by reading this comprehensive guide. If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment below!