The magnetron and the transformer are typically the most expensive parts of a microwave. Replacing a magnetron can cost anywhere between $100 and $200, depending on the make and model of the microwave, and replacing a transformer costs between $100 and $300.
A standard microwave would be worth between $5 and $10 in scrap metal at most locations. The scrap value is primarily in the steel casing found in most microwaves, with some copper in the motor.
Magnetron Replacement
The magnetron is the heating technology that powers your microwave. Without it, your food is as good as cold. Replacing a microwave magnetron costs between $100 and $200 on average.
Microwaves with a wattage at or above 900 watts are usually considered in the high range.
While its primary purpose is to heat up leftovers and defrost frozen foods, microwaves also contain a small amount of gold in their circuit boards. Disassembling the microwave and properly extracting this gold can yield a tidy sum.
Microwaves can be recycled with your electronics OR with your scrap metal. If you choose to put your microwaves with your scrap metal, CAPACITORS MUST BE REMOVED. According to NRRA's metal vendor, in addition to environmental concerns, capacitors can store energy and are fire hazards in scrap piles and dumpsters.
Among all home devices, computers and televisions typically contain the most gold.
Can I use my microwave to boil water? Yes, water can be boiled in a microwave using a microwave-safe container. Use a wooden stick (like a chopstick or coffee stir stick) in your microwave safe container to prevent superheated water.
Pizza. Place 1 to 3 slices of pizza on a paper towel-lined plate inside the microwave. Press the pizza button on your appliance. This preset will reheat your pizza to the correct temperature without overcooking it.
Microwaves between 600-800 watts use less power as they are on the lower end of the wattage range. They work well for more simple cooking tasks such as heating instant meals, small dishes and reheating drinks. Your cooking time may be longer compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
If the cost of repairing a microwave comes close to or exceeds the price of a new one, it might make more financial sense to replace it. However, if the costs of repairing are relatively low and the microwave isn't too old, it could be worth repairing the microwave.
Examples: a dented anode jacket, punctured vacuum seals, misaligned filament due to handling by the cathode / filament (stem), operation with incorrect voltages / currents or insufficient cooling (air and water).
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.
Sell the appliance to a local buyer online. The average used microwave sells for $25 but the return can be up to $100 for nicer models. Start a listing with one of these popular sites: eBay.
Water heaters and other appliances that use plumbing for operation are especially worthy of collecting for scrap metal purposes. These types of appliances tend to feature valuable components that are in high demand, such as copper pipes and copper wiring.
If your microwave is in good condition, you can expect between $5-$25. If you're pawning a newer microwave that serves a dual purpose (like a microwave/toaster oven in one), you may earn a bit more.
The only button a microwave needs is “+30” seconds. - Steve Jobs.
Place your plate of pizza in the microwave. Then, position your cup of water next to it. The cup of water helps to redirect moisture away from the pizza, which can help it heat more evenly and may lead to a crispier texture.
Glass and ceramic dishware are usually safe for microwave use, but there are exceptions like crystal and some handmade pottery. When it comes to glass or ceramic plates, bowls, cups, mugs, mixing bowls or bakeware, you should be in the clear as long as it doesn't feature metallic paint or inlays.
When the oven is empty none, or almost none of the microwaves are absorbed. A large amount of energy reflects around the oven chamber resulting in large standing waves that can damage the unit. If the microwave works after it has been run while empty, then the unit is safe to use.
Yes! Instant ramen is safe to cook in the microwave and in fact, is faster and easier than cooking it on the stovetop.
Apple's iPhones, on the higher end of the smartphone spectrum, contain more gold than other brands. The exact amount varies depending on the model, but on average, an iPhone contains around 0.034 grams of gold.
Smaller laptops might contain less gold. Conversely, there is about 5/16th of a gram of silver (20 cents) in a cell phone and 7/20th (22 cents) of a gram in a computer. This is part of the reason why electronic recycling is important and why some companies will offer you a lot for your used devices.
Very little of the critical and scarce metals in vehicles is recycled because they are spread out in small quantities; in a new car, for example, there may be a gram or two of gold distributed over several tens of components.