Microwaves are one of the many appliances Omaha homeowners use almost daily. This is because microwave technology offers a fast, easy way to cook many foods that is convenient for everyone. However, microwave ovens could cause potential damage to your home or harm your own health. Avoid such hazards by learning these tips on using a microwave oven safely:
1. Exercise caution when heating water.
When you put water or a liquid-based substance in a microwave, it can get to boiling temperatures quite suddenly and can become severely hot. When removing the dish, you might want to consider wearing or having something that will protect your hands from the hot item.
2. Confirm that the door shuts tightly.
Microwaves need to be working properly for safety reasons. Don't use this appliance if its turntable rotates and the exhaust fan runs while the door remains open, this is not how it was built to work. If this is the case, replace or identify the problem, or call an appliances Omaha professional to come take a look at it.
3. Never place metal items inside of the oven.
We all should know this, but it happens to the best of us from time to time. If put in the microwave, aluminum foil could spark a fire, compromise food safety or damage your equipment. The same goes for empty containers.
4. Only use suitable ceramic, plastic and glass dishes.
Check the bottom for the words "microwave safe." The wrong materials may melt or harm the appliance by reflecting microwave radiation. It is important that what you’re putting in your microwave is safe.
5. Don't place sealed containers in the oven.
They could inflict damage or injuries by exploding. Keep in mind that this can also happen if you cook certain foods without removing the shells.
6. Never activate this appliance when it's empty.
If you run your microwave with nothing in it, it might destroy the unit's magnetron or start a fire. Unlike conventional and toaster ovens, a microwave oven never needs to be preheated before cooking, but it always needs some food substance to maintain safety.
7. This equipment normally won't affect a pacemaker.
At one point in time, there was a concern that radiation leakage from a microwave could interfere with certain electronic cardiac pacemakers. Today’s pacemakers have been resolved to shield against such issue. Nonetheless, a faulty unit could trigger health problems. Turn off and unplug the appliance if it seems to cause palpitations or make you feel dizzy.
8. Remember to keep an eye on your microwave oven while it cooks food.
Some things take longer to cook in the microwave than others. If you avoid leaving the room for long periods of time, you'll have an opportunity to shut it off before a minor problem turns severe.
To sum it up, you can maximize safety by using this cooking equipment cautiously, selecting containers with care and wearing oven mitts when necessary. Be sure to thoroughly maintain the appliance as well.
For any questions about any appliances Omaha, ServiceOne is here to help. Our company has three decades of appliance, heating and cooling and plumbing experience. Contact us for any questions regarding your microwave ovens, or to learn more about any of the services we have to offer.