Here’s What Should You Do If Microwave Has a Crack Inside

Microwaves are great for heating food, especially if you’re in a hurry. They work better than ovens for this purpose, and that’s why many people own them. However, there has been a misconception surrounding microwave use, especially when they’re cracked or have a hole inside. Some people are cautious of radiation when using microwaves that are cracked or have a hole inside. How safe are these microwaves?

Microwaves are safe to be around, even those with a crack or a hole inside. Contrary to what people believe, the radiation emitted by microwaves is not DNA-damaging and won’t cause any harm. However, it depends on the size of the hole or crack, since huge ones might expose wires, risking electrocution.

That’s not all, as you still need to know whether there are health risks of operating a cracked microwave, what caused the cracks and holes, and what happens if there is a hole in a microwave, which you will learn if you read on.

Can You Use A Microwave With A Crack Or A Hole?

Some things hold a sentimental value to us, and it’s hard to part with them. If the item in question is a microwave, then it’s completely understandable why you might feel uneasy letting it go.

But continuous use has exposed the device to wear and tear, which has resulted in a crack or a hole forming inside. When this happens, many people often have reservations on whether it’s still safe to use the microwave.

Firstly, a microwave can still function as needed, even with a hole or a crack inside. However, you need to check where the crack or the hole is forming and make sure wires and cables are not exposed. Secondly, you must check the size of the hole, as tiny ones have no adverse effects. Even so, large holes and cracks might cause severe structural damage, making it hard to operate the device.

Are There Health Risks Of Using A Cracked Microwave?

The biggest concern about using a microwave, whether cracked or not, is the amount of radiation it emits. Although microwaves emit radiation, it’s not the DNA-damaging kind of radiation, which means it doesn’t pose any health threats to you. The only threat you should be concerned about is electrocution and minor cuts from cracked edges.

Even so, it’s essential to have your microwave inspected in case it starts making strange noises when you switch it on. Although rare, some faulty microwaves have been a source of the fire.

What Causes The Inside Of A Microwave To Crack?

Excessive use of the microwave is the primary cause of cracks and holes forming. Additionally, using materials that are not conducive to microwave use, such as metal, could leave the device with cracks at the bottom. Continuous slamming of doors could also lead to cracked microwaves.

Cracks are common with a majority of domestic and commercial microwaves, but once they get bigger, it’s time to let someone examine if the device is still in a usable condition. Microwaves can also crack when they fall or from impact when an object hits them.

Can You Clean Cracked Microwaves?

Microwaves require regular cleaning, even the cracked ones. A simple wiping with a towel will do the trick, but take extra precautions when the microwave is cracked. Keeping the microwave clean will help to prolong its lifespan.

However, it’s imperative to observe safety precautions, especially when your oven has cracks on it. Here are some tips to help you out:

Avoid using wet towels.
Detach the microwave from the socket.
Avoid cleaning over the cracks.

Also, make sure you clean the cracked oven more often to remove any moisture that might have been trapped inside the cracks. Additionally, if the microwave has stubborn stains, you could try placing a bowl filled with straight vinegar inside and heat it for five minutes at a high temperature. Vinegar is a great stain remover, and the steam will dissolve into the stain at high temperatures, making it easy to wipe them out.

If you don’t have vinegar, you could try three tablespoons of baking soda mixed in half a glass of water. Stir until you get a thin paste, which you’ll then apply on the surface of the microwave you want to clean. Leave it for five minutes and wipe it with a moist rag.

What Should You Do If There Is A Hole In Your Microwave?

Wear and tear are inevitable, and they might result in the formation of a hole or a crack. Although the microwave might be perfectly usable in this condition, there is a risk of further damage to the device if you don’t take the correct measures to deal with the problem.

Besides deteriorating conditions to the device, there is also the risk of tissue burns from the excess heat coming out of the device.

For your safety, it’s always best to stand a few feet away from the microwave when you open the door to prevent injuries from burns. For your safety, make sure you consult a technician who will take a look at the microwave to assess the nature of the damage.

Conclusion

Microwaves are great for heating and cooking food. They’re quick and very effective, saving you time and money. They’re also susceptible to damage and cracks from regular use and when you place non-conducive materials inside, such as metal.

The impact from falling or other items could also lead to a cracked microwave. Although small holes and cracks aren’t bad or harmful, you should be cautious when the cracks get bigger.

Radiation from microwaves doesn’t pose any health problems to you, but there is also a risk of electrocution from exposed wires and burns from excess radiation. You can clean a cracked microwave by following the safety precautions, such as unplugging the device from the power source.

Avoid using a microwave that’s making irregular noises, since it might cause a fire.