FAQs
Microwaves draw a significant amount of power when operating, and if the circuit is already handling a heavy load, it may not be able to handle the additional demand. To fix this issue, unplug any other high-powered appliances from the same circuit and try running the microwave again.
Are microwaves worth having? ›
1. Pro: saves money for owners. As well as saving you time, they can save you money. You can “trim real money from your energy bill by using the microwave more in place of the big oven”, said CNet, because it uses 1,200 watts of energy per hour, compared with an electric oven, which uses 3,000 watts.
Where should I put my microwave? ›
Aim for a location that's convenient to the countertop, stove top and fridge. It's really common to pop something straight from the fridge into the microwave, so you want the two to be close together – while ensuring there's bench space nearby.
How to make a microwave look built-in? ›
A creative Kitchen Designer though, can work with the countertop microwave to give it a more built in look.
- Recessed Into a Niche. ...
- Place It On A Shelf. ...
- Install It Above a Drawer. ...
- Specify It On Top of a Raised Counter. ...
- Hang It From An Upper Cabinet. ...
- Install It In A Tall Cabinet. ...
- Place It Behind A Door.
How do I reset my microwave? ›
To clear the error code from your microwave: Unplug the unit from the wall outlet or trip the circuit breaker to cut power supply to the machine. Allow the machine to remain unplugged for 10-15 seconds. Restore power to the unit.
How long do microwaves usually last? ›
With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive microwaves? ›
In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.
Where not to put a microwave? ›
- In a cupboard. While appliance garages are becoming increasingly popular, you might want to leave your microwave out of the loop if you want to keep your kitchen intact. ...
- Above eye level. ...
- Close to a sink or dishwasher. ...
- In front of a window. ...
- Next to the fridge.
Should you stand in front of a microwave? ›
Microwave radiation leaks are hard to detect because you can't smell or see microwaves. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates radiation-emitting products such as microwave ovens, advises against standing directly in front of or up against the oven while it is operating.
Is it okay to put a microwave on the fridge? ›
"Electronic appliances and devices, such as toasters, microwaves, or radios, shouldn't be kept on top of the fridge because the vibrations from the fridge's compressor can damage their delicate components over time," says Petya Holevich, Fantastic Services' domestic cleaning expert and supervisor.
- Create an island of tranquility. A sleek-looking kitchen does not lend itself to countertops cluttered with small appliances like microwaves. ...
- Hide it above the range. ...
- Put it below deck. ...
- Blend it in with the cabinets. ...
- Stash it above the window. ...
- Stick it over the fridge. ...
- Hide it in a dedicated “appliance garage.”
Can I put a countertop microwave as built-in? ›
Can You Use a Countertop Microwave as a Built-in? Yes, you can mount your countertop microwave on a shelf or in a cabinet for a built-in look that frees up counter space in your kitchen. This is a great option for anyone looking to add more counter space without requiring a complete kitchen remodel.
What happens if you put a countertop microwave in a cabinet? ›
A microwave oven, designed exclusively for a kitchen countertop, has vents that are built into the back of the microwave oven. If installed into a cabinet, these vents will be blocked and unable to release steam from the microwave oven. Talk about a fire hazard for your kitchen.
Can you fix a short circuited appliance? ›
Once you locate the short circuit, it's time to call an electrician for professional electrical repair. If you can't find the problem, it's also time to call an expert. An overloaded circuit and electrical repair, in general, can be risky. Call a professional rather than risk injury or disaster.
How to reset microwave circuit breaker? ›
Instructions
- Locate a Flashlight. ...
- Turn Off Devices on the Circuit. ...
- Find the Electric Service Panel. ...
- Open the Door to the Service Panel. ...
- Locate Tripped Breaker. ...
- Turn the Circuit Breaker Handle to OFF Position. ...
- Turn the Circuit Breaker Handle to ON Position. ...
- Test Circuit.
Why is my microwave tripping the breaker all of a sudden? ›
Reasons Why Your Microwave Is Tripping Your Breaker
In order for this type of reaction to occur, there must be one of two issues at hand: Too many items are plugged into the same circuit that the microwave oven is on, causing an overload. The microwave oven is defective and drawing an excessive amount of electricity.
What to check if microwave stops working? ›
How to repair a microwave that is not heating
- Step 1: Check the microwave's power supply. Check to make sure the microwave's power supply is plugged into a grounded, operational outlet. ...
- Step 2: Ensure the door is closing properly. ...
- Step 3: Check the microwave's controls. ...
- Step 4: Check for error or display codes.