Why You Should Never Run Your Microwave While It’s Empty

The microwave is a marvel of modern kitchen technology, making meal prep faster and more convenient. Along with its many uses, however, come a few crucial don’ts. One of the most important is to never run your microwave empty. You might think it’s harmless to warm it up before use or if you forget to put something inside. Nothing happens then, right? Wrong. Here’s why running an empty microwave is a bad idea.

There's a Risk of Damage to the Microwave

The primary reason you should never run a microwave empty is the potential for damage to the appliance itself. Microwaves generate energy waves that need something to absorb them. When there’s nothing inside to absorb the energy, these waves bounce around inside the microwave, eventually being absorbed by the microwave’s components. This can cause overheating and damage to the magnetron, the device that generates the microwave radiation. Repairing or replacing a magnetron can be costly, often exceeding the price of a new microwave.

There's An Increased Fire Hazard

Running an empty microwave also increases the risk of fire. When the microwave’s components overheat, they can reach temperatures that ignite any small particles of food, dust, or grease that might be inside. This can start a fire inside your microwave, potentially causing significant damage to your kitchen and posing a serious safety hazard. Fire hazards are no joke, and taking this simple precaution can help avoid a dangerous situation.

Wasted Energy and Efficiency

Using a microwave empty wastes energy and reduces its efficiency. Microwaves are designed to heat food, not air. When run empty, the appliance uses energy without performing its intended function, resulting in unnecessary electricity consumption. In an age where energy efficiency is increasingly important, this wasteful practice is something best avoided. By ensuring you only run your microwave with something inside, you contribute to better energy use and reduce your household’s carbon footprint.

Potential for Electrical Malfunctions

Another issue with running a microwave empty is the potential for electrical malfunctions. Overheating internal components can lead to shorts and failures in the microwave’s electrical system. This can cause the appliance to malfunction or stop working altogether, necessitating expensive repairs or replacement. Electrical malfunctions can also create risks of electric shock or further fires, compounding the hazards of running an empty microwave.