What’s a modern kitchen without a microwave to reheat your leftovers or bake your favorite cake at 2 am when the food delivery partners are not available? Well, there’s no doubt a microwave has become a necessity in every household and saves you food and time. But have you ever thought what would happen if you are in an emergency and your microwave fails to do its job? Scary right? With maintenance and monthly microwave oven repair in Cuttack, you can prevent damage, especially during emergencies.
In this blog, we will explore various ways to maintain your microwave so you avoid unwanted situations. Keep reading till the end to find out the best ways to take care of your microwave.
But first…
Why should you maintain your microwave?
The answer is simple. When you maintain your microwave, you get:
- Longer life
A well-maintained microwave can last 2-5 years longer. On the other hand, the neglected one can give up within the first year if the pressure is too much. - Better performance
Regular maintenance means better performance. That may include heating, faster cooking, and fewer unexpected shutdowns. - Energy savings
A clean and efficient microwave uses less power. So you don’t have to worry about high electricity bills. - Cost savings
Maintaining your microwave reduces major repair or replacement costs. - Safety
Finally, maintenance reduces the risk of fire hazards, sparks, and radiation leakage, keeping you and your family safe.
(Also read from our previous blogs: How to Replace the Microwave Fuse: Q Tech Refrigeration)
How to maintain your microwave?
The following are some of Q Tech Refrigeration’s expert advices that can help you maintain your microwave:
- Clean the inside of the microwave
Let’s be real, food splatters, grease, and spills are more than just ugly. In fact, this dirt can actually damage your microwave. But how? Well, the leftover food particles can absorb energy, overheat, and cause burns or smells.
The best way to ignore this is to clean it properly. First, after each use, make sure to wipe the inside with a damp cloth to prevent buildup and opt for weekly deep cleaning. To do it yourself, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon, then heat it for 3-5 minutes until steam forms. Once done, let it sit for 2 minutes and wipe it off with a clean cloth.
However, always remember to avoid metal scouring pads or sharp tools since they can easily damage the protective coating inside. Finally, clean the outside by wiping the control panel. Make sure to avoid damaging buttons and clean vents to allow proper airflow.
- Allow the turntable to move smoothly.
You already know the rotating plate inside the machine is responsible for cooking your food evenly. But if it’s stuck or wobbly, your food may not heat evenly, and the motor may burn out. First of all, remove and wash the turntable weekly and check the rollers underneath for crumbs or debris. Once you’re done with the cleaning, make sure it sits securely on the centre hub.
- Give Your Microwave Some Space to Breathe
Just like any other machine, microwaves need ventilation to prevent overheating. So, the first thing you need to do is not keep them in cramped spaces or cover the vents. This can shorten their lifespan rapidly. Instead, leave at least 3–5 inches of space behind and above the microwave, and ensure the vents are clear of dust, grease, and obstructions. And don’t place it near stoves, ovens, or other heat sources.
- Don’t Run It Empty
We bet you didn’t know this, but running a microwave with nothing inside can damage the magnetron. The magnetron is the component that generates heat, so when there’s no food or liquid to absorb the energy, the waves bounce around inside and cause overheating, damaging the microwave. That’s why you must always make sure there’s something inside before you start.
- Check and Maintain the Door Seal
Finally, always remember to check and maintain the door seal with an expert in microwave oven repair in Cuttack. Well, the concept is simple. Your microwave’s door seal is designed for safety, preventing leaks. Over time, dirt or damage can stop it from sealing correctly. So remember to wipe down the rubber gasket around the door and look for cracks, gaps, or looseness. The door should shut firmly without force for longevity. But if you notice the seal is damaged, stop using the microwave immediately and contact Q Tech Refrigeration.
Some of the common mistakes
The following are some of the common mistakes you may be committing:
- Using metal utensils and foil paper.
- Blocking the ventilation system.
- Running it empty.
- Force open the door before it stops.
- Overheating food over and over again.
Bottom Line
Sometimes the damage is visible, sometimes not. However, that doesn’t mean your protection is always guaranteed, especially if you’re unaware of your microwave’s current condition. This is why it is always essential to maintain your microwave to increase its lifespan regularly. Apart from that, don’t forget to get it checked by Q Tech Refrigeration, the best microwave oven repair in Cuttack.
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