Microwave ovens are complex electrical appliances that can also be dangerous to the user. In the normal working condition, the kitchen unit does not pose a threat, but the failure of its functional elements makes further operation unsafe. The complexity of troubleshooting is that one symptom of a breakdown can have several causes. If the microwave sparks, this may indicate various problems in the filling of the device. Before proceeding with the repair, it is necessary to understand the situation in more detail.
Reasons for the malfunction
There may be several reasons for the malfunction - from mechanical damage to overheating of some parts of the microwave. In particular, burnout of the mica diffuser is most common. Unfortunately, this problem occurs in all types of such furnaces, and it is quite difficult to insure against it. Malfunctions of this kind are not associated with a gross violation of the operation of the device and often arise due to the low quality of the element itself. Also, if the microwave sparks when turned on, this may be a sign of damage to the internal surfaces in the chamber itself. The fact is that microwaves inside are treated with special enamel coatings. The deformation of this layer usually occurs as a result of the use of metal utensils. That is, to prevent breakdowns of this kind can be subject to the basic rules of operation of the appliance. By the way, it is undesirable to use ceramic dishes with metallized spraying for heating in the microwave.
What exactly sparks?
To understand the causes of this problem, you need to understand the nature of sparking. So, if the microwave sparks and bursts, it means that inside there is a process of interaction between the two electrical conductors. In other words, conditions were created for the formation of an electric discharge or arc. Such phenomena can be accompanied not only by sparking and crackling, but also by light effects, which looks even more frightening.
What elements in this case provoked sparking? It may well be metal elements caught in a chamber with utensils. Again, this does not have to be all-metal utensils. If a microwave with a ceramic plate sparkles, then, perhaps, pieces of foil served as an occasion. Moreover, the charge does not always occur even in the presence of full-fledged metal parts in the chamber. To activate such processes, there must be an appropriate power, which is enough to overcome the barrier in the form of an air dielectric.
Can I use a sparking stove?
The answer to this question depends on the state of the microwave oven and its elements. The mere fact of sparking does not always indicate damage to the same diffuser or enamel coating. Another thing is that the appearance of sparks should be the reason for a comprehensive inspection of the device. That is, if the cause of this phenomenon was the very presence of a metal element in the chamber, then further operation is quite acceptable provided the integrity of the functional filling of the device. But in any case, it is important to stop the heating process if the microwave sparks. What to do in such situations? First of all, turn off the device through the control system. Next, the power is disconnected. After that, the working elements are checked, among which the magnetron, the most expensive and critical part of the microwave, will become the most important.
Magnetron test
This operation is performed by electric dialing of the contacts of the part. The contacts of the high-voltage transformer are brought to the magnetron - they should be checked for operability. Masters usually examine such areas for resistance, and the electromagnetic responsiveness of the device case is also evaluated. If there is activity, then everything is in order with the magnetron, and it does not need to be replaced. But even with a working magnetron, one can observe how the microwave sparks. What to do in such cases? You should begin to examine the mica diffuser and the condition of the enamel coating.
Repair of mica diffuser
A microwave diffuser is a mica plate whose damage or excessive contamination can cause sparking. This is a small part that is completely subjected to self-repair if the microwave sparks when turned on. Repair will consist in updating this component. It is necessary in the service center of the manufacturer of a particular model or on the radio market to purchase a diffuser that is suitable for the characteristics and replace the old plate with it. Moreover, sometimes experts recommend not to dismantle the old mica plate, but only to overlay a new element, pre-clean the installation site.
Enamel recovery
The formation of sparks can also result from mechanical damage to the walls of the chamber treated with enamel. The latter is used not only for the purpose of forming dielectric insulation, but also for maintaining the cleanliness of surfaces. During operation, damage to this layer is possible - the edges of the dishes or as a result of careless movements with food. If the microwave sparks after such manipulations, it means that the insulation coating has been broken and its restoration is required. The repair of damaged areas is carried out using specialized environmental compounds. Previously, the working surface is cleaned, after which, in accordance with the instructions, a new enamel is applied.
How to avoid microwave sparking?
It has already been noted that sparking occurs either due to poor-quality components, or due to violations of operating rules. To minimize such risks, you should also adhere to other recommendations for the use of such furnaces. For example, you should not reheat food without covering it with a special lid - splashing greasy particles, for example, can contribute to the same damage to the enamel. Often the microwave sparks and due to excessive contamination of the mica plate itself. It can be whole, but dirty. In this case, the purchase of a new element is not necessary - just make timely care for the mica surface.
Conclusion
It might seem that microwave sparking is not a serious problem and, at least, can be corrected at home. But if the device is used with such a defect for a long time, then the negative consequences can become irreversible. For example, if the microwave is cracking and does not heat. Is it possible to fix the device in this case? The absence of the main working function may indicate damage to the magnetron or its adjacent infrastructure with contacts. Theoretically, updating it is possible, but the cost of such an operation is usually almost half the price of a new microwave. Therefore, it is advisable to solve the problem at the first sign of a spark.