Get matched with top small appliance repair technicians in Kotzebue, AK

A microwave typically lasts between 7 to 10 years with regular use. The longevity depends on how well the microwave is maintained and how often it’s used. Microwaves that receive regular cleaning and proper care can sometimes last even longer, while those used heavily may need to be replaced sooner.

Built-in ovens are installed directly into a wall to sit flush with a kitchen's cabinets, counters, or walls. These ovens offer a streamlined appearance that can blend into the rest of your kitchen aesthetic. And if you want it to blend in even more, you can opt to put a cabinet door over the unit to match the rest of your cabinets. 

Another benefit of built-in ovens is that they help preserve your floor space. If you opt for a standalone oven, you'll need to find a place for it in your kitchen. However, since built-in ovens are flush with your walls or cabinets, they won't encroach on your square footage.

If you use your microwave as your quick reheating solution, replacing it with a steam oven won’t be your best choice. Steam ovens take a long time to heat things up. Sometimes, it can be an hour or more before your food is ready. Meanwhile, a microwave heats up food in minutes with many quick-heat presets, making it the perfect option for those on a tight schedule.

The magnetron, which is the component that generates the microwave energy used to heat your food, is the most likely piece to cause your appliance to fail. Unfortunately, your microwave won’t serve any purpose without a functioning magnetron, so not only is this the most common repair, but it’s also the most important. 

Repairing a broken magnetron usually costs between $100 and $200 or $175 on average. About half of that cost goes toward labor, and the other half is for a new magnetron. Higher-end microwaves may demand larger or more complex components, which could increase your repair cost.