The average life of a microwave is considered to be 8 years. This means at some point, you will need to replace it. In some cases, a small repair can be a cost-efficient option compared to replacement. You have to examine and identify the signs to determine if your microwave needs a replacement.
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, yet even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat snacks and leftovers or to defrost meals.
A good microwave will last approximately seven years. Of course, there are many variables to consider that can affect this. The more often you use it the shorter the life is likely to be, as is misusing it by putting inappropriate items in it.
Microwaves older than 10 years or with faulty doors should be replaced immediately in order to reduce radiation exposure while you cook.
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.
Smoke, sparks, and burning smells.
These are signs of a serious and urgent problem. Stop what you're doing, and turn off and unplug the microwave immediately. There's no going back if you see smoke or sparks, or smell something burning. Your microwave is failing, and it's time for a replacement.
On average, a microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper maintenance. However, many people may have microwaves that have surpassed that and are still working. While it may seem like a great cost-saving measure to keep using an old microwave, it may not be the best option in the long run.
On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.
If you take good care of your microwave up into its old age, there's a low risk of harm, but if it's damaged in any way you may want to get it checked out.
And of course, as technology becomes commonplace, the price goes down as well. In 1990 a much-smaller microwave with two power levels could be purchased for $99.98, which amounts to about $183 in today's money.
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.
"Countertop style microwaves do not have filters that need to be cleaned. The type of microwaves that do need cleaning are the kind that are over your stovetop," she explained. "Only microwaves with a fan that recirculates air back to your kitchen have filters."
In conclusion, upgrading to a new microwave oven can bring numerous benefits, from improved efficiency and safety to enhanced features that make your cooking experience more enjoyable.
Yours will probably last about 10 years. But when it's time to replace it, you needn't spend much money on a new one. Most inexpensive microwaves are made by only a couple of manufacturers, so it doesn't make much difference which one you buy.
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.
The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about 13 years. However, this number can vary depending on the type of refrigerator and how it is maintained. Some types of refrigerators can last as long as 20 years, while others may need to be replaced after as little as five years.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates radiation-emitting products such as microwave ovens, advises against standing directly in front of or up against the oven while it is operating. This will avoid harm from any possible leaks.
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.
Smoke, sparks, and burning odor are the primary signs that signal the last days of a microwave. Other problems like unexplained loud noise, prolonged or faster cooking, loose door hinge, and malfunctioning keypad are signs to invest in a new microwave.
"Microwaves alter the taste of food, take up a lot of room and make nearly everything mushy," she says. Nicole Robina, a publicist, agrees with Shortt that conventional ovens are the way to go. "Everything tastes better when you heat it up in the oven," she says. "It's worth the extra time."
Are old microwaves safe? As long as your microwave functions properly, it's as safe to use as a new microwave. If you notice smoke in your microwave, turn it off and unplug it immediately. Food heating unevenly, not heating at all, or heating quickly are signs of a faulty microwave as well.
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.
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.
Our survey team recommends that you repair any higher-end OTR microwave that's 4 years old or less and consider repairing one that's 5 to 7 years old. Replacement is recommended for any OTR microwave that's 8 years or older.
Take Your Microwave to an Electronic Waste Recycling Center
Check with your local trash or recycling center to see if they will pick up a microwave or where you can drop it. Many communities hold annual or quarterly cleanup days where household hazardous waste and old appliances will be taken and disposed of properly.