What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?

• <div><p>The most obvious sign that it’s time to repair or replace your microwave is that it is no longer heating food. If you notice your food coming out cold or not as warm as it used to, call a small appliance repair technician for help. </p><p>Some other signs your microwave is in need of service include:</p><ul><li><p>It’s making strange noises during operation.</p></li><li><p>The interior plate no longer spins.</p></li><li><p>You notice strange smells or see smoke.</p></li><li><p>It’s close to or more than eight years old.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

How long should my microwave last?

• <div><p>A microwave can last anywhere from five to 10 years. To get the most out of this appliance, you should follow a few maintenance tips:</p><ul><li><p>Immediately clean up spills and food bits. To help with stuck-on food, heat a bowl of water with ¼ cup of lemon juice for one minute.</p></li><li><p>For over-the-range microwaves, clean the grease filter that’s underneath it. This will ensure the microwave runs efficiently.</p></li><li><p>Never put anything metal in the microwave, as it can create a fire hazard. Also, avoid dishes with metal trim for the same reason. </p></li><li><p>Avoid slamming the door. With years of use, the door switches could easily break. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Can I DIY oven repair?

• <div><p>Outside of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-your-oven-6-easy-steps.htm">deep cleaning your oven</a> and keeping your stovetop sparkling, you <b>should not</b> attempt DIY oven repairs, especially if you have a gas oven. <b> </b>Even the most straightforward repair can be dangerous if not done correctly, and that’s not a risk worth taking. It’s always best to hire an oven repair specialist to assess the repair needed for your oven and appropriately (and safely) take care of it for you. </p></div>

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Q: What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?

• <div><p>The most obvious sign that it&rsquo;s time to repair or replace your microwave is that it is no longer heating food. If you notice your food coming out cold or not as warm as it used to, call a small appliance repair technician for help. </p><p>Some other signs your microwave is in need of service include:</p><ul><li><p>It&rsquo;s making strange noises during operation.</p></li><li><p>The interior plate no longer spins.</p></li><li><p>You notice strange smells or see smoke.</p></li><li><p>It&rsquo;s close to or more than eight years old.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: What is the most common type of microwave?

• <div><p>Countertop microwaves are the most common type of microwave. This is because they don't require installation; all a countertop microwave needs is a stable surface and an outlet. Low-end countertop microwaves can be found for less than <b>$100</b> with high-end models going for up to <b>$700</b>, making them an accessible option for most people.</p></div>

Q: Is it worth fixing an oven?

• <div><p>In general, yes, it's worth <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/should-i-repair-or-replace-my-broken-appliance.htm">repairing an appliance over replacing it</a>. If the repair will give you more years of reliable service from the oven and the repair costs less than buying a comparable new model, then yes, get it repaired. If, on the other hand, the oven is reaching the end of its life and needs a costly repair, you're likely better off buying a new oven.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Small Appliance Repair pros in Waterford, PA

*The Angi rating for Small Appliance Repair companies in Waterford, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Small Appliance Repair needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Small Appliance Repair companies in Waterford, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Small Appliance Repair needs.

Last update on November 24, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
He fixed my phone quickly and did an excellent job. The screen looks brand new, everything works perfectly, and the service was fast and reliable. I?d definitely recommend him for any phone repairs.
Saiyan Corp INC
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Reviewed in January 2024
We have had Sam do multiple installs and repairs. He always communicates promptly and pricing is very fair.
Mr. Bender Handyman Services
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Reviewed in June 2022
Ed did an excellent job on the installation of our water softener and reverse osmosis system. He was very professional, personable, and knowledgeable. We already notice a difference in our appliances and no stains from the softener. It is also very nice to have delicious purified water coming...
ABD Water Treatment Services
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Reviewed in December 2018
Prompt. Explained the repair and overall evaluation very well.
Ruddy Ducts & Maintenance, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2014
We discovered a leak somewhere in our roof. We were under time pressure because we were selling our house and the closing was less than 2 weeks away. Paul came out and checked the roof to determine exactly where the leak was occurring. He identified the location and scheduled a time a few days...
Overhead Solutions Inc
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Reviewed in September 2013
I was stuck by a deer and had to have my entire car drivers side repaired and painted. They replaced all the parts, looked underneath and found damage there. They worked with my insurance company, took care of getting me a rental car for the 3 weeks it took to repair my car. I didn't have to...
Walker Bros Buick Chevrolet
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Reviewed in September 2013
Henry, the mechanic, encountered an inability to remove that ring from the vehicle due to rusted parts. He then repaired the missing tooth on that anti-lock ring in place on the vehicle. The repair went exactly as expected and he restored full function to the anti-lock braking system of the...
GILLETTE IMPORT AUTOWERKS
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Reviewed in May 2013
I liked that J. Hoffman & Sons Auto Repair gave me options with my car. They found me an engine with low mileage and good-priced. They've accommodated my needs. They were awesome.
J Hoffman & Sons Auto Repair
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Reviewed in March 2013
He was very prompt and through. I will hire them for my repairs. He spent over an hour giving me the best options and I was very happy with the estimates.
DENIZIAK SIDING CO
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Reviewed in March 2013
They are very helpful and understanding. They're not even very expensive considering they're smaller and can't get the big box prices, but it's not that bad. My husband communicates with them and pays for whatever he needs done on the lawnmower. They are a small community hardware store and they...
SAEGERTOWN HARDWARE
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Small Appliance Repair questions, answered by experts

The most obvious sign that it’s time to repair or replace your microwave is that it is no longer heating food. If you notice your food coming out cold or not as warm as it used to, call a small appliance repair technician for help.

Some other signs your microwave is in need of service include:

It’s making strange noises during operation.
The interior plate no longer spins.
You notice strange smells or see smoke.
It’s close to or more than eight years old.

Countertop microwaves are the most common type of microwave. This is because they don't require installation; all a countertop microwave needs is a stable surface and an outlet. Low-end countertop microwaves can be found for less than $100 with high-end models going for up to $700, making them an accessible option for most people.

A microwave can last anywhere from five to 10 years. To get the most out of this appliance, you should follow a few maintenance tips:

Immediately clean up spills and food bits. To help with stuck-on food, heat a bowl of water with ¼ cup of lemon juice for one minute.
For over-the-range microwaves, clean the grease filter that’s underneath it. This will ensure the microwave runs efficiently.
Never put anything metal in the microwave, as it can create a fire hazard. Also, avoid dishes with metal trim for the same reason.
Avoid slamming the door. With years of use, the door switches could easily break.

Outside of deep cleaning your oven and keeping your stovetop sparkling, you should not attempt DIY oven repairs, especially if you have a gas oven. Even the most straightforward repair can be dangerous if not done correctly, and that’s not a risk worth taking. It’s always best to hire an oven repair specialist to assess the repair needed for your oven and appropriately (and safely) take care of it for you.

In general, yes, it's worth repairing an appliance over replacing it. If the repair will give you more years of reliable service from the oven and the repair costs less than buying a comparable new model, then yes, get it repaired. If, on the other hand, the oven is reaching the end of its life and needs a costly repair, you're likely better off buying a new oven.

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