How do I know if my microwave needs replacing?

Author: Jace Gerhold  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Five Signs That You May Need to Replace Your Microwave
  1. Cooking times are off. If your food cooks too quickly or too slowly, test your microwave's power by placing one cup of water inside and turning it on for two minutes. ...
  2. The door seal is compromised. ...
  3. Issues with the keypad. ...
  4. Old age. ...
  5. Odd smells.

How do you tell if you need a new microwave?

When to replace the microwave? Common signs that your microwave needs changing
  1. Making funny noises.
  2. Smells like electrical burning.
  3. Isn't cooking food in the usual time or cooking unevenly.
  4. Needs help to work properly – such as a spoon to hold the door closed.
  5. Keypad has stopped working.

How do you know when your microwave is going bad?

Issues like odor, smoke, and even electrical sparks are serious. if such things happen, switch it off immediately, unplug the appliance, and consider replacing it. Microwaves are meant to cook faster, so if you find your food is not properly heated or not cooked to the desired doneness, replacing it is a good idea.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old microwave?

Factors to Consider

Age of the Microwave: Microwaves typically last about 7 to 10 years, so if yours is in the 7-year range or older, repairs might only offer a temporary fix, making replacement the better long-term option.

What usually goes out on a microwave?

Understanding the most common parts that can break in a microwave, such as the magnetron, door switches, turntable, control panel, and high voltage components, can help users identify issues early and seek professional repairs or replacements.

How To Fix Microwave Sparking for $3 - Broken Microwave

How do you know if your microwave is about to go out?

If you need to push, re-push and then push some more on the buttons to get them to work, chances are your keypad is going out. A dying microwave often takes more time to heat foods. If the latch on the door is broken -- and you need to use duct tape to keep it closed -- it's time to get a new microwave.

What is the usual problem with microwaves?

Probably the most common issue of any microwave is when the plate doesn't turn. The turning plate helps cook and reheat your food evenly, so it's a major headache when it's not working. Usually, the problem could be from something obstructing the spinning assembly.

What shortens the life of a microwave?

If you don't clean your microwave regularly, accumulated grime and food particles can cause performance issues. This buildup can affect how your microwave heats and operates, leading to inefficiency and potential damage. Make sure to wipe down the inside of your microwave frequently to remove any spills or splatters.

How do I know if my old microwave is safe?

6 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Microwave
  1. Smoke, sparks, and burning smells. These are signs of a serious and urgent problem. ...
  2. Food isn't cooking properly. ...
  3. It makes horrible sounds as it cooks. ...
  4. The door doesn't seal properly. ...
  5. The keypad doesn't function. ...
  6. It's over 10 years old.

What causes a microwave to go bad?

It may be a damaged power cord, a bad fuse, or a malfunctioning circuit board – all of which are issues with the microwave itself. This microwave failure may also be from a natural cause. Have there been any power surges or storms near you? That can cook the wiring in your appliance.

What are the symptoms of a bad magnetron in a microwave?

One of the most common issues with a malfunctioning Magnetron is the lack of heating. If your microwave is running but not producing heat, it could be due to a faulty Magnetron, burned-out filament, or a malfunctioning high-voltage diode.

How to test your microwave?

Heat the water for exactly 2 minutes and 30 seconds on the High power level. The High power level is the default heat setting on the Microwave. A temperature rise in the range of 28 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 22 degrees Celsius) indicates that the Microwave oven is heating/cooking properly.

What is the best microwave brand?

As the best microwave overall, we chose the Panasonic Microwave Oven; it combines a 1,200-watt motor with a compact exterior. If you're looking to save money and space, the Commercial Chef Countertop Microwave is the best budget microwave: simple but effective, much like microwave cooking itself.

Which microwaves last the longest?

Some microwaves, particularly those from higher-end brands such as Wolf and Viking, tend to last longer, around 10 to 15 years or even more. The lifespan of these microwaves can be further enhanced by repairing them when issues arise.

Is it okay to use a 20 year old microwave?

Microwaves older than 10 years or with faulty doors should be replaced immediately in order to reduce radiation exposure while you cook.

What causes a microwave to burn out?

The most likely cause is that the diode, which increases the voltage to the magnetron, has burned out. If this is the case, then the magnetron can't receive enough power to generate microwaves. These can usually be replaced for a low cost.

How do I know if I need a new microwave?

If the sounds of your microwave start to change significantly, moving from a whir or hum to loud buzzing or rattling, this can be an indication of a serious problem. You should have even more cause for alarm if your microwave begins emitting smoke or sparks, or if smells like it is burning.

When should you throw out your microwave?

On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.

Can a broken microwave leak radiation?

If microwave ovens are used while broken or altered, it is possible for them to leak electromagnetic radiation. Microwave radiation leaks are hard to detect because you can't smell or see microwaves.

Why we don't throw out old microwaves?

Don't Toss Out Your Broken Microwave

Because of their electrical components, microwave ovens are considered e-waste in some places, and improper disposal will get you some serious fines and/or into a bit of legal trouble.

What happens when a microwave gets old?

As a magnetron ages the emitted waveform becomes less pure and “splashy". This makes it less efficient. In Radar terms a splashy magnetron has to be replaced immediately For cooking purposes the chicken will still get cooked but maybe not as quickly.

What damages microwaves?

Generally, metal pans or aluminum foil should also not be used in a microwave oven, as the microwaves are reflected off these materials causing the food to cook unevenly and possibly damaging the oven. The instructions that come with each microwave oven indicate the kinds of containers to use.

How do you know when your microwave is not working properly?

You hear strange noises during operation

If you hear a rattling or clanking noise when the appliance is in use, though, it could be a minor issue like a cracked or broken plate or guide roller that's easy to replace. Unfortunately, it could also be your drive motor wearing out, which is a more complicated fix.

What happens when a microwave goes bad?

If the inner case is damaged, rusted, with holes, or not making a perfect seal with door, radiation can leak. This is dangerous to humans. Also, if the damage is severe, the magnetron gets very hot and fails. Or in rare cases, the power supply may catch fire.

What usually breaks in a microwave?

Common microwave problems that can be fixed include a faulty door switch, blown fuse, or malfunctioning turntable. Other issues include uneven heating due to a damaged magnetron or burnt-out diode. Check for stuck buttons or a broken fan.

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