Microwave ovens have come a long way since they were first introduced. Yet, microwaves today still have relatively short lifespans compared to those of other common kitchen appliances.
How long do microwaves last? Is a microwave repair worth the money? Mr. Appliance® has the answers.
How Long Is a Microwave’s Lifespan?
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, yet even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat snacks and leftovers or to defrost meals. This lifespan can be shortened even further if the wrong items are placed inside, which may cause irreparable damage or a risk of fire.
Some microwaves, particularly those from higher-end brands such as Wolf and Viking, tend to last longer, around 10 to 15 years or even more. The lifespan of these microwaves can be further enhanced by repairing them when issues arise.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Microwave?
At some point, your microwave will need to be replaced, but in many cases, a repair may be the more cost-effective option. The experienced professionals at Mr. Appliance can help make your decision easier with these tips on which small appliances are worth being repaired.
In general, if you can repair your microwave rather than replace it, that will prove more cost-effective in the long run.
Five Tips to Make Your Microwave Last Longer
Maximize your microwave’s lifespan with these tips:
- Ensure there is adequate air circulation around the microwave.
- Use a surge protector to safeguard the electrical components.
- Neve place metal objects inside the microwave.
- Use a gentle soap and water for cleaning.
- Do not turn the microwave on when empty.
Five Signs That You May Need to Replace Your Microwave
- Cooking times are off. If your food cooks too quickly or too slowly, test your microwave’s power by placing one cup of water inside and turning it on for two minutes. If the water isn't piping hot when removed, it may be time to repair the unit.
- The door seal is compromised. The door seal is an important safety feature designed to contain low levels of radiation. This element of a microwave oven is something that should be handled with a repair job instead of a full microwave replacement.
- Issues with the keypad. If one or more buttons on the keypad are not responsive, it may significantly hamper the functionality of your microwave. If a good cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, call Mr. Appliance for microwave repair services.
- Old age. If your microwave is approaching the 10-year mark, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient unit.
- Odd smells. Odd odors, such as a burning smell, smoke, or sparks, are a sign something is amiss, and you should immediately turn off and unplug the microwave and call for a repair.
Microwave Oven FAQs
Are microwaves worth repairing?
Yes, a microwave is often worth repairing. Often, the issues plaguing a microwave can be fixed for a fraction of the cost of replacement. Repairs can extend the lifespan of your microwave and save you money.
What is the average cost to repair a microwave?
The average cost to repair a microwave varies based on the issue. Most of the time, repairs are significantly cheaper than a replacement.
What is the most common cause of microwave failure?
The most common failure point for a microwave is the magnetron. This component generates radiation that cooks your food. When this component fails, a qualified repair professional can replace it.
Call Mr. Appliance Today for Your Microwave Oven Repair Needs
The team of skilled professionals at Mr. Appliance offers microwave repair services you can count on. Call us today or contact us online to let us know how we can help!
FAQs
If your microwave is approaching the 10-year mark, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient unit. Odd smells. Odd odors, such as a burning smell, smoke, or sparks, are a sign something is amiss, and you should immediately turn off and unplug the microwave and call for a repair.
Is it worth getting a microwave repaired? ›
Our survey results suggest that you should consider repairing the broken microwave if it's still under warranty or if it's 5 years old or less, but you'll definitely want to replace it if it's more than 5 years old.
What is the average life expectancy of a microwave? ›
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.
When should a microwave be replaced? ›
A good microwave will last approximately seven years. Of course, there are many variables to consider that can affect this. The more often you use it the shorter the life is likely to be, as is misusing it by putting inappropriate items in it.
What is the average cost to repair a microwave? ›
The national average cost to repair a microwave ranges from $100 to $200. Most homeowners spend about $150 to repair or replace the magnetron in a countertop microwave unit.
What usually fails on a microwave? ›
Issues with the door switch, internal fuse, magnetron, diode, high-voltage capacitor, and electronic control board are common causes of microwave malfunctions, requiring repair or replacement by a technician.
What are the most problem with microwave? ›
Probably the most common issue of any microwave is when the plate doesn't turn. The turning plate helps cook and reheat your food evenly, so it's a major headache when it's not working. Usually, the problem could be from something obstructing the spinning assembly.
How do you know when a microwave is going bad? ›
Smoke, sparks, and burning smells.
These are signs of a serious and urgent problem. Stop what you're doing, and turn off and unplug the microwave immediately. There's no going back if you see smoke or sparks, or smell something burning. Your microwave is failing, and it's time for a replacement.
How do you know if your microwave magnetron is bad? ›
If all the sounds and displays operate as usual, but no burning odor or smoke, and appear to be doing the cooking program, but absolutely no heating of the usual food contents happens; it might be a bad magnetron, or a bad high-voltage power transformer or the HV-rectifier.
Can a microwave last 20 years? ›
A microwave that runs for 500 hours will last about five and a half years. At 1000 hours, it will last 11 years. At 2000 hours, it will last over 20 years. The more people you live with (assuming you use your microwave frequently), the more important it is to find a quality microwave.
Multiple factors involved with this. If it's an inexpensive countertop unit under $500, then you're probably better off getting a new one. If your microwave is 10 or more years old, then probably much better off getting a new one even if it's an expensive overhead built-in.
How can I test if my microwave is working properly? ›
Heat the water for exactly 2 minutes and 30 seconds on the High power level. The High power level is the default heat setting on the microwave. A temperature rise in the range of 28 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 22 degrees Celsius) indicates that the microwave oven is heating/cooking properly.
What is the most expensive part of a microwave? ›
Yet, the door on a microwave is typically the most expensive part to replace, ranging from $200 to $500.
How much does it cost to fix a magnetron in a microwave? ›
Cost of Magnetron Replacement
The magnetron in your microwave is the power source for your appliance. Replacing it costs approximately $100 to $200. A microwave magnetron price is around $50 to $100, and labor is about $50 to $100.
Is it worth replacing a magnetron in a microwave? ›
Replacing a magnetron in a microwave is typically not worth it for countertop models because the cost is often more than buying a new microwave. Replacing a magnetron in expensive built-in microwaves is typically worth it if multiple parts aren't also failing.
Is it worth fixing a 20 year old microwave? ›
A good rule of thumb is that if your appliance is more than ten years old, it may be time to buy a new one. However, if your microwave is newer, repairing it could be a better financial decision.
How much does it cost to replace a heating element in a microwave? ›
The magnetron in your microwave is the power source for your appliance. Replacing it costs approximately $100 to $200. A microwave magnetron price is around $50 to $100, and labor is about $50 to $100. If you decide to buy the part yourself, make sure you buy the right one for your microwave's brand and model.
Why do microwave ovens stop working? ›
Misset functions or broken parts are often to blame when your microwave is not heating up. Settings like Control Lock Mode, Demo Mode or power levels set too low may be preventing food from cooking, or more complex causes like a broken magnetron, door switch or high voltage diode could be the source of the problem.
Are built in microwaves repairable? ›
Like a lot of built in appliances, it will be a lot easier and no doubt cheaper to repair the microwave than to have to find a replacement that is the same design and size. As you can see from the photos here of a typical example that has come in for repair.
