With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
Old age. If your microwave is approaching the 10-year mark, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient unit. Odd smells. Odd odors, such as a burning smell, smoke, or sparks, are a sign something is amiss, and you should immediately turn off and unplug the microwave and call for a repair.
According to Consumer Reports, these magical appliances typically last around nine years. That number can vary, depending on how often you use it and the brand. Though microwaves can be repaired, it's often more cost effective just to get a new one and send your old one to be recycled.
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.
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.
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.
On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.
With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
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.
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.
The microwaves are generated by a vacuum tube called a magnatron. As with all vacuum tubes, their emission weakens over time so in theory a old tube may required a bit longer cooking time.
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.
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.
A good rule of thumb is that if your appliance is more than ten years old, it may be time to buy a new one. However, if your microwave is newer, repairing it could be a better financial decision.
In California, for example, the only legal way to dispose of it is to go through a microwave recycling facility or retailer take-back program.
Interior Coating or Paint Flaking or Peeling
If the coating is actively flaking or paint is peeling anywhere inside the oven cavity (including under the turntable) discontinue the use of the Microwave and replace it. The Microwave is not repairable.
"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."
Metal reflects microwaves and creates a concentrated area where electrical currents form. The concentrated energy can lead to sparking, or arcing. The presence of metal inside the microwave cavity can result in electrocution, or even a fire inside the microwave by igniting flammable materials inside the appliance.
If your microwave is still in good working condition, but simply lacks the latest features, you may want to hold off on purchasing a new one. However, if your microwave is exhibiting signs of wear and tear, or if it is over ten years old, then it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model.
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.
A faulty magnetron, burned out capacitors, or a bad diode are other possible culprits. Replacing these parts takes a little more electrical know-how, and there's a risk of shock even when the microwave is unplugged.
To avoid replacing yours more than about once every 10 years—which is how long most manufacturers tell us they should last—you'll want to take care of it. Your microwave may not get as grimy as your oven, but even so, one of the best ways to keep it humming along is to keep it clean.