Microwaves have become a kitchen appliance essential for many people for its convenience in quickly heating food or cooking it. It's really frustrating when you're in a hurry that mishap happens.
It may happen that you place the container in the microwave, it is working, but it is not heating, The good news is that there may be a fairly easy solution to fix it without having to change it. In this article we will talk about some of the most common reasons why a microwave does not heat, and how you can fix them.
Causes why the microwave does not heat
This appliance, like any other we have in the home, can suffer damage that causes it to not work correctly. Sometimes the fault can be seen, it can be seen visually., in other cases it may have stopped working and cannot be fixed. Let's explore the possible causes and solutions when food doesn't heat up.
Poor power supply
First of all, the problem could be related to the power supply. If your microwave doesn't seem to heat up when you try to use it, you should first check that it is properly plugged in and receiving power.
Many people have their microwave plugged into a power strip or extension cord, and These often do not provide a constant supply of power to the microwave, especially when you try to use other devices at the same time.
If this is not the problem, you should also check that the microwave's power supply is not blown or tripped at the breaker box. In this case, simply resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the blown fuse would be enough to solve the problem.
Dirty or defective parts
If the power supply appears to be checked and is not the problem, there could still be issues with the internal workings of the microwave that are preventing it from heating up. The most common problem in this case is a part that is dirty or malfunctioning.
You should ensure that the oven cavity and door seal have been properly cleaned, as this can help ensure that the appliance receives the necessary power to heat food. Additionally, you should also check and replace the tube and other parts that may be malfunctioning or broken.
Plates and containers
There may also be a problem with the dishes or containers you use in it. Make sure you use microwave-safe plates and containers when heating food, since those that contain some type of metal, such as aluminum foil or metal plates, can prevent food from heating.
As a general rule, make sure the containers are not only microwave safe, but are also safe in appearance and free of dents or cracks.
Software problem
Another reason why a microwave may not heat properly is that it could have a software problem. To check if this is the problem, unplug it from the power source and leave it unplugged for a few minutes.
Afterwards, you can plug it back in and see if the problem is resolved. In many cases, this can help reset the software and resolve the problem, and helps ensure that the microwave receives the power it needs to heat the food.
Obstructions
It may happen that there are remains of food or other residue inside the appliance that cause small obstructions and may be the reason why it does not heat up. To avoid this problem, it is essential to clean it periodically.
Fuses
It is very important to check the fuses because they may have burned or melted. This problem can occur due to a factory defect or because the device has been exposed to high temperatures.
Faulty door switch
These devices have a switch on the door that prevents them from starting if the door is not completely closed.
If the switch is damaged, although the microwave may appear closed it will not start the cooking cycle.
It may also happen that the interior light does not turn off when the door is closed, or that it does not turn on when it is open.
In this case, a new switch must be installed and you must contact a professional to carry out the repair.
What type of containers can I use to heat in the microwave?
La glass and ceramic tableware It can be placed in the microwave, but there are exceptions such as glass and handmade ceramic pieces.
Glass and ceramic plates, cups, bowls should present no problems as long as they do not have paint or metal inlays.
Plastic containers are safe, but some you should avoid, such as those used for cottage cheese, yogurt or other foods, should not be heated in the microwave.
Plastic containers that do not indicate that they are microwave safe cannot be used. Neither are cracked, old or discolored plastic ones.
The best plastic containers that have a long-term life such as Tupperware are the best to use in these appliances.
As for paper plates, you can place them inside, but some disposable tableware has a thin plastic cover, you must make sure they are suitable for these appliances, otherwise do not use them.
If you want to cover some foods with paper towels so that they do not splatter during cooking, they are suitable. In this case you have to use the device with shorter intervals to check the food and paper more frequently.
You should not use recycled or printed paper towels or brown paper bags as this is a safety hazard.
You should never place any object that is made of stainless steel, iron, aluminum foil, or metals in the microwave.
Remember that metal surfaces reflect microwaves that increase the heat inside the appliance which could cause a fire.
Finally, the reasons why a microwave may not heat food to the desired temperature can vary. The most common problems are related to the power supply, dirty or malfunctioning parts, non-microwave-safe dishes and containers, and software issues.
To ensure that your microwave is working properly and You must take the necessary measures to analyze and resolve the problem. By following the suggestions above, you will be able to identify the root of the problem and take the necessary steps to solve it.