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Microwave Oven: Toss or Repair?

Microwave Oven: Toss or Repair?
If your microwave has any of these problems, it could be time to replace it.

A microwave oven is perhaps more a part of our lives than we might realize at first. If something were to happen to our microwaves, we might find ourselves at a greater loss than we might expect. These trusty machines typically last for around ten years. Should a problem arise, one may wonder whether it is worth repairing. To toss or repair? It depends on the issue at hand.

The Light’s Gone Out

If you one day notice that your food is cooking in the dark, this is the least of your microwave problems. The answer lies in a new light bulb. Because of the high voltage that passes through a microwave oven, you will want to get a price quote from a professional repairman. Replacing the lightbulb involves opening the microwave’s cabinet.

The Door Doesn’t Open or Close Properly

Microwave ovens today will not start cooking unless the door is closed all the way. This feature prevents the accidental spread of radiation in the kitchen or room. Within it are interlocking switches that ensure that it is fully closed. If the appliance runs when the door is open or fails to do so when closed, check its hooks and release button to see if they are broken.

The Touchpad Malfunctions

If your machine’s touchpad is not working properly, it could need cleaning. It could also be a sign of a graver problem. If the touchpad needs replacing, you might as well replace the whole microwave due to the high repair cost.

Longer Cooking Time

A typical microwave oven cooks for a generally standard amount of time, depending on the type of food or beverage. If something that usually takes a minute to heat up takes several, it’s time to buy a replacement. A popular test for seeing if this is really an issue is to heat an 8-ounce glass of water for two minutes. It ought to be steaming hot.

Loud Noises

If your oven is making loud, buzzing noises when it cooks, check to see if anything is stuck in its fan or turntable. If you cannot see anything, the problem is in its wiring. It may be worth taking to a repairman for a quote.

Sparks and Burning

There is no hope if your microwave starts to threaten your kitchen with a fire. Turn it off, unplug it, and chuck it.

It’s Over Ten Years Old

As mentioned above, manufacturers have designed these small appliances to function for about ten years. If yours is over that age, you may find that the newer models are more energy-efficient. 

Contact Landers Appliance Today!

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We service the entire Greater Baltimore Area, including Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, and Howard Counties as well as Baltimore City. Call our office before 12:00 pm weekdays at 410-682-3232, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin. “We’ll go out of our way to provide you with the best service you’ve ever received.”

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