✅ Microwave oven useful life

Microwave oven useful life

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Microwave oven service life. How to extend her life?

According to the manufacturers' instructions, microwave ovens last from 2 to 10 years (each manufacturer determines the operating life of the oven independently). However, some microwave ovens need to be replaced after just a year. They may lose power and take forever to heat something up, the turntable may fail, or the lid may not seal properly. All of the above cases are a sure sign that the microwave needs to be replaced, or at least sent for repair to fix the problem.

But it also happens that even after 10 years of trouble-free service for the benefit of the family hearth, the microwave oven still heats up dishes, prepares breakfasts and even cakes with cream, in general, remains the permanent guardian of family satiety and good mood.

What determines such a striking contrast? From the manufacturer, from the frequency of use, and perhaps from the users’ compliance with all operating conditions of the device?

Of course, following the operating instructions will extend the life of the microwave oven at least twice. However, do not forget about the rules for installing the device, and also that it, like any other household appliance, needs to be looked after. Now let's move on from theorizing to specific practical advice on extending the life of this indispensable device in everyday life.

First of all, you need to choose the right place to install the stove. The microwave must have its permanent home in the kitchen. Of course, this is not such a big device, but let's count how many times a day we use it to heat food. At least three times if a person lives alone, and if the stove serves a family of three. You must agree that it is extremely inconvenient to take it out of the closet every time.

The ideal placement for a microwave oven would be a horizontal surface that rises at least 90 centimeters above the floor level. You cannot place the stove close to the wall - it is better if the distance between it and the wall is about 10 centimeters. It is worth abandoning the idea of placing it near sources of heat and steam. And the window will not be the most advantageous neighbor for the stove. Judge for yourself: the temperature difference is most felt on the windowsill, especially in winter, when frosty air comes from the window, and the batteries under the window sill are working at full capacity. This will quickly damage the microwave oven.

Five Signs You Need a New Microwave Oven

Of all the kitchen appliances, the microwave oven has the shortest lifespan - only about nine years. Bad news? Yes, probably. But the good news is that a new model of microwave oven can be purchased for relatively little money. Let's figure out how to determine when it's time to change your microwave oven.

1. You hear loud noises while cooking

If you've been making loud buzzing or knocking noises lately while cooking or heating food, this is abnormal. First, check to see if the pan is in place. It may be located outside the base and is causing the dishes to hit the sides of the microwave. Next, check whether fat or food residues settled on the walls are interfering with the movement of the tray. It may be time for you to give your microwave a thorough cleaning.

If the tray moves freely and within the base, try an experiment: place a mug of water in the microwave for 10 seconds. If you still hear unusual noises, this may indicate a faulty magnetron or high-voltage capacitor. In this case, you should consider purchasing a new microwave oven.

By the way, in NeoChef microwave ovens the turntable is more stable compared to standard ovens, since it has 6 supports at once. This provides better stability, prevents spills from the container on the edge of the turntable, and allows for hassle-free cooking.

2. It takes forever to heat up dinner.

Each microwave oven has a different power, which means a different speed for cooking or heating food. But if you notice that the standard heating time for a bowl of soup has increased significantly, this may indicate that the magnetron is beginning to fail. To test how well (or not so well) your microwave works, try the mug experiment again - this time heating the mug with water on high power for two minutes. By the time the buzzer sounds, the water should be hot and ready to brew tea. If this is not the case, your microwave oven is not in the best shape. By the way, when looking at a new microwave oven, we recommend paying attention to NeoChef. LG provides a 10-year warranty on the magnetron of this microwave oven.

3. You smell smoke or see fire

Smoke, sparks or fire are the surest signs that the microwave oven is out of order. Unless, of course, you decide to heat food in it in a metal container. If heating or cooking took place in a microwave-safe container and you followed the cooking recipe, then the cause of the breakdown may be faulty electrical components. They need to be urgently replaced, and the microwave oven itself must be disconnected from the electrical network.

4. You notice that the microwave oven stops periodically

This may seem like a minor problem, since the microwave oven continues to operate, albeit in this semi-functioning mode. But the truth is that such operation of a microwave oven can be associated with many problems, including such a significant one as the failure of the voltage transformer. So instead of pressing the button, adding 30 seconds several times, choose your new microwave.

5. You can't close the door tightly

Microwaves appear in the oven only after the door is completely closed, and only in this case are we protected from electromagnetic radiation. So if your microwave door is broken, cracked, or won't close, you will have to replace the part or opt for a new microwave.

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Microwave oven life

The microwave has long become an everyday attribute of any modern kitchen. This useful household appliance allows you to quickly heat or cook food, spending a minimum of effort and time. In daily use, this technique has become truly indispensable. In this article we will focus on the features of the microwave oven and its service life.

When buying a microwave oven at a hardware store, consumers are primarily interested in the device’s functions, reliability and durability.

Most microwave oven models have the following functions: heating, defrosting, grilling and convection.

The device heats food quickly and evenly, which is very convenient, for example, in the morning when everyone is rushing to work. In addition, you can do without pots, pans and harmful oil. It is enough to put the food on a plate or in a container, place the container on the rotating table in the chamber and turn on the heating mode. After a couple of minutes, a hot snack is already on the table. If you don’t have time to eat a full lunch, you can easily prepare hot and tasty sandwiches with a variety of fillings in the microwave.

On a note! American scientists managed to find out one important detail that indicates the benefits of this electrical appliance. Pathogenic, dangerous microorganisms contained in food die under the influence of microwaves 5 minutes after the products are in the chamber.

What risks do we take when using microwaves: examination results

Immediately after the publication of the test results, Samsung employees presented working test reports for a sample oven of this model from two independent laboratories specializing in the examination of household appliances. The results of these measurements differed markedly, but showed that the maximum permissible level of energy flux density in the microwave range was not exceeded, despite the fact that in both cases a single measurement technique was used and the same type of measuring device was used. During the analysis of the features of existing testing methods and standardization of indicators, as well as possible reasons that influenced the current situation, experts noted several important nuances.

In the sanitary rules SP 2666-83, the maximum permissible levels of energy flux density created by household microwave ovens are set to 10 μW/cm2 when measured at a distance of 50 ± 5 cm. Measurements in this case should be carried out with devices that are not currently in use. But in terms of the maximum permissible value of the microwave flux density level, this document is valid.

At the same time, in the Uniform Sanitary Requirements (EST), the permissible level of energy flux density in the range of 0.3-300 GHz, created by equipment intended for domestic use, is established as “no more than 10 μW/m2” - this is a stricter standard specified in SP 2666-83 10,000 times! It is very likely that the discrepancy is caused by a banal typo in the ECT, since no modern microwave oven can meet these requirements in principle. In addition, the EST does not provide a methodology for measuring this parameter at all.

According to the interstate standard GOST IEC 60335-2-25-2012, the level of microwave energy flux density when determining microwave radiation leakage should not exceed 50 W/m2. The methodology differs somewhat from that given in SN 2666-83 in terms of the volume of water in the chamber during testing, the material and shape of the vessel in which it should be located. In this case, measurements are carried out by searching at a distance of 50 mm from its surface. By the way, this GOST contains the most detailed and understandable explanations of the measurement methodology, but its requirements are not applied in the process of control and supervisory activities.

The expert commission considered the situation atypical, so to continue the investigation, another sample of the Samsung ME83DR oven was purchased from the retail chain. As a result of the tests, energy flux density values were obtained that did not exceed 0.1 MPL, which may indicate a malfunction of the first furnace sample.

Even before re-testing, Samsung announced that the Samsung ME83DR microwave oven was discontinued in September 2015. Due to this, this model was removed from the catalog.

What affects the service life of a microwave oven?

Product quality

Models of microwave ovens offered on the household appliances market have different prices and sets of functions. It is better to make your choice in favor of proven brands.

The quality of the device is affected by the type of coating used in the chamber. It is recommended to buy cameras with ceramic and bioceramic coating. This surface is easy to clean and is considered safe for health. There are no traces of dishes left on it.

To save time and effort, some microwave ovens are equipped with a “steam cleaning” mode. Of course, the additional function is reflected in the price of the equipment, but this will ensure the camera’s safety from mechanical damage.

On a note! The electromagnetic waves that the device emits must remain only within the chamber, so it is equipped with doors that prevent the radiation from escaping outside.

Compliance with operating rules

In order for a microwave oven to serve well, it is important to initially take care of the location of the equipment.

Manufacturers' recommendations

It is not recommended to place the microwave oven close to a wall or any surface! It is important to leave a gap of at least 10 cm to allow hot air to escape through the ventilation grilles.
Do not place the microwave oven on an uneven surface.
It is prohibited for other household appliances, for example, a washing machine, refrigerator, electric stove, or heaters, to be located near the microwave oven. All vibrating equipment and units, the walls of which heat up during operation, have a negative effect on microwave ovens.
It is not recommended to heat food in cylindrical or narrow containers.
It is better not to cook foods containing casings, such as sausages, eggs, tomatoes.
It is prohibited to allow the microwave to run idle. This may damage the magnetron.

How to use a microwave correctly

Use special dishes. Many stores sell special containers and utensils for heating or defrosting food in microwave ovens. Some manufacturers offer cookware included with the purchase. Unlike ordinary kitchen utensils, these containers will not harm your camera.
It is allowed to use food-grade plastic containers or heat-resistant glass.
Under no circumstances should you place metal utensils or plates with steel elements, rims or gold designs on the rotating platform.

Correct installation

The installation location of the microwave will also determine how long it will last, because some “neighbors” adversely affect the operation of the oven (for more details, see the article on the rules for installing a microwave oven: proximity to other equipment).

The proximity of a microwave oven to such equipment and devices as:

Fridge.
Washing machine.
Dishwasher.
Plate.
Heating system devices.

Appliances such as a refrigerator, washing machine and dishwasher vibrate during operation, this can lead to damage to the microwave. Do not install the microwave oven close to the walls of the kitchen unit; this will block the ventilation holes, which may cause the heating device to fail. The distance between the walls of objects must be at least 10 cm.

Moisture entering the device is unacceptable. Therefore, it is not recommended to place the device for heating food on the windowsill due to the appearance of condensation during the cold season.

If you place a microwave near heating appliances or other heating equipment, this will cause the device to overheat, which is also not the norm. When installing a microwave oven, take care of a flat and stable horizontal surface, as well as air access to the ventilation holes of the device.

How to extend the life of your microwave oven

If you carry out wet cleaning of the inner surface of the camera in a timely manner, you will be able to avoid serious problems associated with repairs.

To remove traces of dried greasy drops or food residues from the coating, you need to take a deep container and pour water into it, add lemon or lime slices. Acid will remove dirt faster. The container is placed in the chamber, the doors are closed and the microwave is turned on for a couple of minutes, turning the control to full power. After the glass fogs up, wait until the water cools down for 15 minutes, then open the doors and wipe off the dirt accumulated during use with a sponge.
The outside of the glass door can be easily cleaned with a solution of vinegar and water. The washed chamber is wiped with a dry cloth so that no drops remain. You should use a microfiber cloth that is lint-free.
The outside of hovercraft ovens can be washed with universal household chemicals. Nowadays there are many different gels and powders in stores to keep kitchen equipment clean. However, it is strictly forbidden to use chemicals to remove traces of dirt or grease inside the microwave. The product is applied directly to the sponge. Movements must be careful. Do not allow chemicals to enter the ventilation grille.
The microwave oven is convenient for disinfecting plastic containers, boards and sponges. For example, to disinfect a container, rub it with a solution of lemon juice or vinegar and place it in a chamber, setting the heating regulator for a couple of minutes. After which the container is rinsed with clean water.

By applying simple rules for operating a microwave in practice, the equipment will last a long time and will be a reliable assistant in the kitchen.

Magnetron repair

The magnetron is the most complex and expensive component of a microwave oven. It is extremely difficult to repair it even in specialized workshops. Most often, a faulty magnetron is replaced. However, before you decide to take this step, you need to make sure that this is the problem. Failure of the magnetron is accompanied by external manifestations. Therefore, at the first stage, you should conduct a visual inspection of the microwave chamber. The main external signs indicating a malfunction of the magnetron are unusual sounds, the appearance of smoke or sparking, and the presence of melted or darkened areas on the walls of the chamber.

It will be interesting➡ Connection diagram for a pass-through two-key switch

Then they check the functionality of such microwave oven components as:

control unit (CU);
a system that generates high-frequency radio waves.

Useful material: what is a semiconductor diode.

Control unit diagnostics

You can verify that the control unit is faulty by checking with a multimeter whether voltage is being supplied to the input of the step-up transformer. If, when the timer is turned on and the operating mode is selected, there is no voltage at the transformer terminals, then the control unit is faulty.

Magnetron in a microwave oven.

The control unit, equipped with a mechanical timer and manual operating mode switches, is easy to repair. As a rule, to do this, it is enough to visually inspect it and check with a tester the presence of electrical signals at the contacts of switches and relays. Identified damage (broken parts, oxidized and burnt contacts, torn wires, etc.) is repaired.

If the microwave oven is equipped with an electronic control unit, the initial diagnosis will help with the display, which displays incorrect information when a malfunction occurs. If the screen does not light up, then check the integrity of its built-in fuse.

The electronic control unit is designed in such a way that it is capable of independently diagnosing a breakdown. By turning on the diagnostic mode and checking the error codes on the display with their interpretation table (shown in the operating manual), you can obtain the necessary information about the cause of the malfunction.

An electronic control unit is a complex radio-electronic unit that cannot be repaired without special measuring instruments. Once you are convinced that it is faulty, you need to take the stove to the nearest repair shop for complex household appliances.

Checking the radio wave emission system

If the control unit is working properly, then check the components related to the microwave radiation system. In the general case, it consists of a high-voltage power transformer and elements of the voltage booster electrical circuit (voltage shift circuit). Microwave ovens use specially designed high-voltage transformers such as MOT (microwave oven transformator). Structurally, they contain three windings:

primary 220 V;
step down 3V;
increasing 2 kV.

The performance of the transformer is checked by sequentially ringing all windings with a tester. In this case, the step-down winding (magnetron heating) has the least resistance, and the high-voltage winding has the greatest resistance. If the measuring device shows a break in one or more windings, then the transformer must be replaced.

Important! An interturn short circuit may occur in the high-voltage winding of the transformer. This will be indicated by insufficient operating heating temperature and/or increased hum. It is impossible to measure the voltage at the output terminals of this winding with a conventional tester. Special measuring instruments are required. In the event of an interturn short circuit, the transformer must also be replaced.

Next, check the integrity of the elements included in the voltage multiplier circuit. In addition to the magnetron, it includes high-voltage radioelements: a capacitor and a diode. At the same time, it is impossible to check a high-voltage diode for breakdown with a tester - its internal resistance is quite high. It can only be measured using a megger. If a part malfunction is detected, the high-voltage diode should be replaced. Then the capacitor must be checked for breakdown.

When measuring, a working device will show a resistance close to “0”, which should increase to infinity in a few seconds. For a faulty one, there is no dynamic change in resistance, which indicates a lack of contact with the capacitor covers. The oven may also heat less efficiently due to leakage between the plates of the device. This is checked using a megger and a high test voltage source. Faulty high-voltage radio elements are replaced.

How to check the magnetron

Causes of magnetron malfunctions

It is impossible to check the magnetron in a microwave without using special instruments, but it may fail due to a malfunction of one or more parts included in its design.

A protective cap that ensures the vacuum of the rod. If it sparks, it means it's burned out. The damaged cap must be removed and replaced.
A filament that can break due to overheating. Check it using a regular tester. The filament resistance should be between 2 and 7 ohms. If the measuring device shows “infinity”, then you need to check the integrity of the connection of the chokes to the magnetron terminals.
Circuit board with elements of the electrical circuit for powering the magnetron. In addition to a visual inspection, it is also necessary to test the components installed on it with a tester.
Thermal fuse, which is also checked using a tester. In normal condition, its resistance is “0”.
Feed-through capacitors, the integrity of which is checked by measuring the resistance between the magnetron body and the terminals. They are operational if their resistance is equal to infinity. In all other cases, the capacitors must be replaced.

It will be interesting➡ How to test a field-effect transistor

When replacing capacitors, do not use regular solder. It is imperative to use refractory solder. You can also use a resistance welding device.

This is interesting! All about semiconductor diodes.

Magnetron replacement

After making sure that the microwave is not functioning due to the failure of the magnetron, the device is replaced. It is better, of course, to entrust this operation to qualified service center specialists, but it can be carried out by anyone who knows how to work with a screwdriver and a tester. When choosing a new magnetron, pay special attention to:

the power indicators of it and the microwave oven were the same, the required parameter is indicated in the accompanying documentation for the microwave oven;
the mounting holes and the location of the connecting contacts matched those of the dismantled magnetron;
the length and diameter of the antenna corresponded to the geometric dimensions of the antenna of the old product.

Dismantling a faulty magnetron and correctly connecting a new one in its place is not difficult, but you must ensure that the new product fits tightly to the waveguide.

Magnetron control board

Since magnetron repair is not carried out even in well-equipped workshops, you will have to purchase a new one. Before removing the magnetron from the microwave, you need to mark the connector contacts so as not to confuse them when installing a new part. If the leads are connected incorrectly, the magnetron will not work.

You can do the replacement yourself if you have at least once used a screwdriver for its intended purpose and rang a couple of diodes. This does not require special skills or knowledge of how a magnetron works. If it is impossible to find a specific magnetron for a microwave, you will have to use a suitable analogue.

Its power must be equal to or greater than that of the original, and the fastening and location of the connector must be the same. The design of the magnetron is the same among manufacturers, but the design may differ, so you need to ensure that the fit of the analogue to the waveguide is tight. If the heat-conducting paste on the thermal fuse is dry, replace it with fresh one.

When purchasing a new magnetron, it is necessary that the power matches, the contacts and mounting holes match. If at least one of the conditions does not match, you have purchased a part that is not suitable for you.

Microwave oven life

What household appliances cannot a modern housewife do without in her kitchen in pursuit of comfort?
To save time and effort spent daily on cooking, women use little helpers - useful equipment.

The microwave is one of them. For most consumers, useful features such as:

heating;
defrosting;
grill;
convection mode.

The device brings many benefits and quickly heats food. Moreover, for this you do not need to take out pots, pans, or add oil. In addition, for a quick snack, you can easily prepare yourself a hot and tasty sandwich within one minute.

Microwave oven lifespan

How long can a microwave operate?

Due to various factors, any equipment breaks down and becomes unusable. Therefore, it is very interesting to know what the service life of a microwave oven is and whether it can be extended.

Some manufacturers claim that with proper operation, the service life of the stove can be 6 years or more .

What affects the service life of a microwave oven?

Product quality

In many ways, operation without breakdowns depends on the quality of the manufacturer and the price category. Don't forget that the miser pays twice.

High quality indicators

Be sure to pay attention to the inner surface of the camera . The best option is ceramic or bioceramic coating . It is quite convenient to use, easy to clean from dirt, safe for health, and will prolong the operation of the device.
A function as “ steam cleaning will significantly save effort and time . It’s worth paying extra for it, since your camera will remain intact longer from mechanical damage, and you won’t have problems cleaning it.

IMPORTANT! To ensure safety, electromagnetic radiation should never leave the inner chamber. This is quite harmful to human health and promises excessive energy consumption.

Competent operation

An important factor that affects the quality and life of the device is its location .

Below are basic instructions for using kitchen appliances correctly.

Manufacturers recommend:

Do not install the stove without a gap between the wall and the back surface. This will block the ventilation air flow, and the heating device will quickly deteriorate. The recommended gap should be at least 10 cm.
Install the unit on a flat, horizontal surface .
Do not place the microwave next to other household appliances , such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, electric stoves and various types of heaters and radiators. Vibration and heating techniques will lead to inevitable breakdown and failure of the microwave device.
Do not use for heating containers with a cylindrical shape and a narrow neck.
Do not leave a working microwave unattended .
Do not heat coated foods : eggs, tomatoes, sausages.
Do not turn on an empty microwave; the magnetron may break.

Tips for use

Its service life also depends on how correctly you use the device:

Heat food only in containers specified in the operating instructions - made of heat-resistant glass and fired ceramics. Do not use metal utensils or containers coated with silver or gold. Neglecting this advice can lead to a fire, as an electric arc occurs between the dishes and the metal parts of the microwave, resulting in crackling noises and sparks.
Before placing plastic utensils inside the chamber, make sure of its quality and purpose. Some plastic plates may melt when exposed to high temperatures.
Never turn on an empty microwave oven. This will lead to breakdown of the main part - the magnetron, which costs slightly less than the device itself. Consider whether you need extra costs before experimenting.
Do not leave the device turned on unattended. If food is overheated, it may catch fire.
If the device does not support the steamer mode, high humidity is contraindicated, so cook your first courses on a regular stove.
Do not place dishes that do not fit the oven chamber, as they may scratch the interior coating. As a result, the microwaves are reflected incorrectly, which can damage the magnetron.
Avoid the habit of leaning on the microwave door. It will sag and begin to transmit waves, which will affect the quality of the device.

How to extend the life of a microwave oven

Use special dishes

To increase time and service life, take special dishes designed specifically for this.

On the modern market there is quite a large selection of cookware that is suitable for housewives for cooking, heating, and defrosting food in a microwave device. They are convenient, practical to use and will not damage the operation of the stove.

Allowed:

food plastic containers with lids to allow steam to escape;
heat-resistant glass , closed in the same way.

Forbidden:

metal objects (plates, mugs);
dishes with metal and gold rims.

Timely and proper care

The duration of use depends on the form in which the microwave device is contained. Note to the owner! Microwave lifehacks

To easily clean the inside of the microwave from dried drops of fat and food, take a suitable container, pour water, add a wedge of lime, lemon or orange. Turn on the device for 2 - 3 minutes at full power. As soon as the door glass fogs up, let the solution cool for 15 minutes. without opening the oven. Then we easily wipe off all internal dirt with a sponge.
The outside of glass can be easily cleaned by mixing water and vinegar in equal proportions (1:1). Then wipe dry with a lint-free cloth, such as microfiber.
The outer surface of the oven can be washed with universal household detergents specially designed for this purpose. BUT! Do not use them to clean the interior of the appliance. And also apply the product directly to the sponge, and not to the oven itself. This will prevent chemicals from getting into the vents.
The microwave is very good at disinfecting plastic containers, cutting boards and dish sponges. For example, we rub the surface with a mixture of lemon juice and vinegar, saturate the sponge, then put it in the oven for a few minutes. And things will again become safe for use for a while.

Knowing and using basic rules for operating a microwave oven will extend the reliable service life of your little and faithful kitchen assistant.

Sources:

https://www.microvolna.ru/srok-sluzhby-mikrovolnovoj-pechi.html https://homeasking.com/srok-sluzhby-mikrovolnovoj-pechi/ https://setafi.com/bytovaya-tehnika/mikrovolnovaya-pech /srok-sluzhby-mikrovolnovoj-pechi/