Microwave ovens are essential in every household and dorm room, and they are a quick and easy way to heat food when you're in a hurry or defrost those frozen steaks when you forget to take them out of the freezer. With proper maintenance, your microwave can last for seven years. 

But if you want your microwave to last longer, there are a few ways to help it outlive the expected lifespan. 

1. Clean spills right away: Microwaves can get messy, especially when heating something like pasta or soup. When spills happen, it's best to clean them right away, as food left behind can create hotspots that can damage the inside of the microwave.
2. Turn the exhaust fan on: If you have an over-the-range microwave, meaning a microwave that's above the oven, it's essential to always run the exhaust fan as moisture and steam from your pots and pans can damage the unit.
3. Degrease the filter: Microwaves come with grease filters that are located underneath the unit. And when left uncleaned, they can affect the way it runs, and it can also pose a fire hazard. To clean the filter, use rubber gloves and let the filter soak in dish detergent. If it's too hard to put back in, then you may need to replace it.
4. Don't slam the door: When closing the microwave door, try to remember not to slam the door as you could damage the latches and door switches. 
5. Don't run it while empty: Microwaves should never run with nothing inside them, as they can overheat a lot faster, causing damages.
6. No metals: The general rule for microwaves is to never heat anything with metal on it. That's because metals reflect the microwaves and cause sparks which can severely damage the unit or cause a fire.
7. Use set cooking times: Set cooking times can prevent food from overcooking, preventing spills and the unit from overheating.
8. Don't repair anything yourself: If something goes wrong with your microwave, it's best to leave the repairs to the experts. Microwaves are complex, and even unplugged, they can still hold a charge for days. 

At Appliance Helpers, we can help you with all of your appliance needs, from microwaves to fridges, furnaces and more. Whatever your issue is, we can set you up with an expert in your area. 

Visit our website for more information on our services and how to get in touch with us.

Microwave ovens are essential in every household and dorm room, and they are a quick and easy way to heat food when you're in a hurry or defrost those frozen steaks when you forget to take them out of the freezer. With proper maintenance, your microwave can last for seven years. 

But if you want your microwave to last longer, there are a few ways to help it outlive the expected lifespan. 

1. Clean spills right away: Microwaves can get messy, especially when heating something like pasta or soup. When spills happen, it's best to clean them right away, as food left behind can create hotspots that can damage the inside of the microwave.
2. Turn the exhaust fan on: If you have an over-the-range microwave, meaning a microwave that's above the oven, it's essential to always run the exhaust fan as moisture and steam from your pots and pans can damage the unit.
3. Degrease the filter: Microwaves come with grease filters that are located underneath the unit. And when left uncleaned, they can affect the way it runs, and it can also pose a fire hazard. To clean the filter, use rubber gloves and let the filter soak in dish detergent. If it's too hard to put back in, then you may need to replace it.
4. Don't slam the door: When closing the microwave door, try to remember not to slam the door as you could damage the latches and door switches. 
5. Don't run it while empty: Microwaves should never run with nothing inside them, as they can overheat a lot faster, causing damages.
6. No metals: The general rule for microwaves is to never heat anything with metal on it. That's because metals reflect the microwaves and cause sparks which can severely damage the unit or cause a fire.
7. Use set cooking times: Set cooking times can prevent food from overcooking, preventing spills and the unit from overheating.
8. Don't repair anything yourself: If something goes wrong with your microwave, it's best to leave the repairs to the experts. Microwaves are complex, and even unplugged, they can still hold a charge for days. 

At Appliance Helpers, we can help you with all of your appliance needs, from microwaves to fridges, furnaces and more. Whatever your issue is, we can set you up with an expert in your area. 

Visit our website for more information on our services and how to get in touch with us.