How Long Should A Microwave Last?

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Microwave hacks can be life savers during a busy week when you don't have time or energy to spend hours on a home-cooked meal. But when you rely on that miracle-working kitchen tool to keep your family fed, you have to wonder how long the appliance will last. In general, you can expect your microwave to function for seven to 10 years, with many countertop models lasting slightly longer than over-the-range ones. But your microwave's lifespan depends on a lot of factors.

Some microwave brands (like Panasonic) place higher in reliability tests than others, but that doesn't always equate to a long life in your kitchen. In the end, usage is one of the biggest determining factors in how long your appliance will last. For families that prefer other heating gadgets like toaster ovens, microwaves are less relevant in their everyday cooking. Those households might be able to keep their microwave in good condition for more than a decade. But the same model's lifespan will likely be shorter in kitchens where people's busy lives revolve around zapping meals in just a few minutes.

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One of the best ways that you can increase your microwave's lifespan is by keeping it clean. That's because leftover food particles can create hot spots that cause damage over time. If you have an over-the-range microwave, don't forget to regularly clean the grease filter, as a gunky filter can create more wear and tear on the appliance. On the other hand, if you have a countertop model, keep the top clear and don't block the vents — this could shorten the life of your microwave or even cause a fire.

Using your microwave wrong can not only burn your food, but it can also damage your appliance. Avoid containers that aren't microwave-friendly, and be sure not to overcrowd the interior. You should also be gentle when closing the microwave door. When setting a timer, make sure you don't accidentally start a cooking session, as you should never run your microwave while it's empty. A short period might not do any permanent damage, but empty microwaves can overheat quickly, and you could cause burn marks or interior damage that may cut your appliance's lifespan short.