Microwave Maintenance: Simple Steps to Avoid Costly Repairs
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Microwaves are one of the most used appliances in the kitchen. Whether you’re heating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting food, it’s hard to imagine a day without it. But like any other appliance, your microwave needs regular care to work well and last longer. Ignoring simple maintenance can lead to bigger issues—and costly repairs.
At 911 Appliance Repair Services, we’ve helped many homeowners fix microwaves that could’ve lasted longer with just a bit of care. In this post, we’ll show you how to avoid common microwave problems with easy cleaning and smart usage tips.
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- Refrigerators: From leaks to cooling issues, we handle all refrigerator problems.
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At 911 Appliance Repair Services, we take pride in our knowledge, reliability, and customer focus. Our licensed and skilled specialists are ready to handle a wide range of appliance difficulties, ensuring that your home appliances are back up and running quickly. We provide service warranties, fair pricing, and exceptional customer service, making us a reliable choice for your appliance repairs.
1. Keep It Clean Inside and Out
One of the easiest ways to take care of your microwave is to keep it clean. Food splatters and grease build up over time, and if not cleaned, they can cause odors, stains, and even damage to parts inside the microwave.
How to clean your microwave:
- Wipe it down regularly: After each use, wipe the inside with a damp cloth or sponge. This prevents food from hardening and sticking.
- Deep clean weekly: Place a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and a few slices of lemon inside. Run the microwave on high for 3–5 minutes. The steam will loosen grime, and you can easily wipe it off.
- Don’t forget the outside: Clean the buttons, handle, and door with a mild cleaning spray or soapy water. Avoid using too much liquid around the control panel.
A clean microwave is not only more hygienic—it also runs better and prevents damage from hardened food particles.
2. Use Microwave-Safe Containers Only
Using the wrong containers can damage your microwave or even cause a fire. Avoid putting metal, aluminum foil, or dishes with metallic trim inside.
Do this instead:
- Stick to microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or plastic containers.
- Look for the “microwave safe” label on packaging.
- Use covers or lids to avoid splattering—but make sure they are vented or microwave-safe.
Heating the wrong material can damage the microwave’s magnetron (the part that produces heat) and lead to expensive repairs.
3. Don’t Run It Empty
Running a microwave with nothing inside can burn out the magnetron. It needs something to absorb the energy it produces. Without food or liquid, the microwave ends up heating itself.
Pro tip: Always place a cup of water or food inside before turning it on. Never run it empty—even for a few seconds.
4. Close the Door Gently
Slamming the door may seem harmless, but it can damage the latches or misalign the door over time. Microwaves are built with safety switches in the door, and if they don’t work properly, the microwave won’t start.
Always close the door softly and make sure it clicks into place.
5. Avoid Overheating Food
Overheating can lead to burnt food and stubborn stains. It can also strain your microwave’s components, especially if it happens often.
Here’s what helps:
- Use the defrost function for frozen items—don’t just blast them on high.
- Follow the recommended time for heating food packaging.
- Stir food midway when heating to spread heat evenly.
6. Check the Turntable and Roller Ring
The turntable helps food cook evenly. If it’s off-track or dirty, your food won’t heat properly and could cause the motor underneath to wear out faster.
- Make sure everything is placed back correctly before using.
- Remove the glass tray weekly and wash it with warm, soapy water.
- Wipe down the roller ring and the bottom of the microwave.
7. Keep the Vents Clear
Your microwave has vents to prevent overheating. If these vents are blocked by dust, grease, or objects around them, the microwave can overheat and fail.
Don’t place your microwave in a tight spot—leave space around it for air to flow.
Wipe down vents with a dry cloth regularly.
8. Listen for Unusual Noises
If your microwave starts making strange buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds, it could be a sign that something is wrong, like a worn-out motor or a faulty part.
It’s best to get it checked by a technician early before a small issue becomes a big repair.
9. Replace the Charcoal Filter (for Over-the-Range Models)
If you have an over-the-range microwave with a built-in vent, it likely has a charcoal filter. This filter traps smoke and odors, and over time, it gets clogged.
You can find replacement filters online or at appliance stores.
Replace the filter every 6 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
10. Know When to Call a Professional
Some microwave issues need more than cleaning or basic care. If your microwave isn’t heating, sparks when turned on, or smells burnt, don’t try to fix it yourself—microwaves store high voltage and can be dangerous to open.
This is where we come in.
Need expert appliance repair services? Call 911 Appliance Repair Services today!
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While knowing warning signs helps, it’s just as important to know when to call experts.
Trying to fix complex appliance issues yourself can make problems worse or create safety risks. If you hear strange noises, see leaks, our repair team is ready to help.
Don’t let a small problem turn into a flood or major breakdown. If you’re not sure how bad a problem is, or if it keeps happening after you try to fix it, call us for help. We install and repair all appliances.
Call us at (647) 334-7733 or visit contact us to book a service today!
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Choosing the right company for your appliance repair is crucial to getting your appliance back in working order quickly and efficiently. At 911 Appliance Repair Services, we understand the inconvenience of a broken appliance, and we’re committed to providing the best service that meets your needs. Here’s why you should choose us:
Why Choose 911 Appliance Repair Services?
- Expert Technicians: Our team comprises experienced and licensed technicians who understand appliances.
- Prompt Service: We value your time. Our goal is to provide quick, reliable service to get your appliance up and running as soon as possible.
- Complete Solutions: From faulty burners to washer leaks, we address all types of gas appliance issues with precision and care.
- Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to provide excellent service and ensure you’re happy with the results.
Contact 911 Appliance Repair Services for fast, professional, and reliable appliance repair. We’re here to help!
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Scheduling a repair is easy. You can contact us at (647) 334-7733 – or book online through our website. Our service hours are flexible to accommodate your needs.
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