Sparks inside microwave or microwave combination oven cooking compartment
Issue
- Sparks inside the cooking compartment
- Why is my microwave sparking on the inside?
Applies to
- Microwaves
- Compact ovens with microwave function
Resolution
If there are sparks inside the cooking compartment, refer to the suggestions below for step-by-step instructions.
Using a conventional Microwave with a turntable
- Do not use the microwave function when the oven compartment is empty.
- Avoid using any metallic materials such as cookware, cooking foil and any crockery with a metallic design.
Microwave non-safe cookware
Cookware | Microwave safe | Comments |
Aluminium foil/containers | Yes / No | Small pieces of aluminium foil can be used to shield food from overheating. Keep foil at least 2cm from the oven walls, as arcing may occur. Foil containers are not recommended unless specified by the manufacturer. Follow instructions carefully |
China and ceramics | Yes / No | Porcelain, pottery, glazed earthenware and bone china are usually acceptable, except for those with metallic decoration |
Metal | No | It is not recommended to use metal cookware when using microwave power as it will arc, which can lead to fire |
Recycled paper and newspaper | No | May contain extracts of metal which will cause arcing and may lead to fire |
Using a Combination Microwave
If using the microwave function only
- Remove metal shelves or oven trays, side panels can be retained in the compartment
- Do not use the microwave function when the oven compartment is empty.
- Avoid using any metallic materials such as cookware, cooking foil and any crockery with a metallic design.
If using a Combination Function
- The combination can be used leaving the wire shelf in the cavity.
- The combination of microwave and oven uses lower power levels.