Since 1946, microwaves have been redefining the way people cook by heating food in minutes. And with most able to start with a press of a button, using this popular piece of kitchen equipment is pretty simple. Still, as with any other appliance, it’s important to know what you should and shouldn’t do with a microwave. To help you keep your device in good condition and avoid the need for appliance repairs, here are a few essential do’s and don’ts of microwave use.

Do:

Always read the instructions.

If you’ve purchased a new microwave, read through the user manual before using the equipment. Each product varies differently, so it’s important to know how yours operates and what the manufacturer recommends for optimal results.

You should also follow cooking instructions on food packages, as different items require different conditions to heat up effectively.

Cover up the dish.

Even if you’re warming up a dish for a few seconds, the heat could cause your food to splatter. Rather than letting ingredients dirty up the inside of the microwave, and possibly cause permanent discoloration, cover your plate or bowl with a paper towel.

Clean after each use.

Whenever you’re finished cooking, wipe down the interior surface of the microwave with a moist paper towel or clean cloth. Taking this step will remove food particles that could cause staining and bad odors. It will also help eliminate bacteria.

Don’t:

Put metal inside.

While food absorbs microwave energy to increase its temperature, metal will deflect it. In a matter of seconds, this reaction could spark a fire or explosion, putting your household and your appliance in harm’s way. As such, you should never put metal silverware or containers inside. Instead, stick with ceramic, glass, and microwave-safe plastics.

Turn it on with nothing inside.

Never turn the microwave on without anything inside. The energy produced will be reabsorbed by the equipment, which in turn, may destroy its magnetron tube—the primary heating element. If you just need something to count down, use the device’s timer setting rather than turning it on all the way.

Ignore damaged doors.

When the microwave door is warped, cracked, fails to close, or otherwise damaged, don’t turn on the equipment. A compromised door may allow harmful radiation to escape, potentially putting your health at risk. Before you use it next, have an appliance repair specialist fix the broken component.  

 

If a broken microwave is causing a cooking inconvenience or putting your safety at risk, turn to the specialists at Expert Appliance Solutions in Elyria, OH. Backed by over three decades of experience, these professionals can pinpoint and fix issues affecting all types of microwaves. You can also count on this appliance service to restore other broken kitchen equipment—including ovens and dishwashers. To learn more about fast, dependable, and affordable capabilities, visit this local appliance repair store online. If you have questions or would like to request service, call (844) 423-9737 to speak with a friendly expert.