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Product Help | Whirlpool

General Arcing and Sparking - Over-the-Range Microwave

Possible Solutions

Prolonged arcing can damage to the oven. If caught at once, arcing should not damage the oven. Remove the offending utensil or food from the oven and either substitute a microwave-safe utensil or cook the food by other methods.

Are the utensils and/or cookware microwave safe?

Metal cookware and bakeware, gold, silver, pewter, non-approved meat thermometers, skewers, twist ties, foil liners such as sandwich wrappers, staples, and objects with gold or silver trim or a metallic glaze should not be used in the microwave oven. If used they could cause sparking or arcing in the microwave. 

CLICK HERE for additional information on proper cookware 

Was metal or aluminum foil used in the microwave?

Aluminum foil and some metal can be used in the microwave oven.  If not used properly, arcing can occur and cause damage to the microwave oven.

CLICK HERE for more information on using metal or aluminum foil.

Is the convection rack or crisping pan touching the cavity walls, ceiling, or floor?

The convection rack and crisping pan are available on some models. To avoid damage to the microwave oven, do not allow the rack or pan to touch the inside cavity walls, ceiling, or floor. Reminder, when using the crisper pan use the turntable as a support for the crisper pan. Do not place the crisper pan on the convection rack or the baking tray(some models).

CLICK HERE for more information on using the convection rack 

CLICK HERE for more information on using the crisping pan

Is the baking tray in the microwave?

The baking tray is available on some models and should only be used with convection cooking and broiling functions. To avoid damage to the microwave oven, do not use baking tray in combination with microwave cooking.

Is the cooking rack installed?

Use the rectangular cooking rack (on some models) only for 2-level cooking. To avoid damage to the microwave oven, always remove rack after 2-level cooking. Leaving the rack inside of the microwave, while using other functions may cause arcing or sparking. 

Were vegetables being cooked in the microwave?

When cooking certain vegetables with high mineral content in a microwave, an arcing effect may occur in or on the food itself. 

CLICK HERE for more information cooking certain vegetables in the microwave.

Is there soil buildup in the microwave oven cavity?

Soil build-up on cavity walls, microwave cover, cooking rack supports and area where the door touches the frame can cause arcing.

Refer to the Use & Care manual for complete details on cleaning the microwave.

Still need help? Contact us or schedule service.

Please contact us or click below to make an appointment from our preferred list of service providers for service on your appliances.

Interested in purchasing an Extended Service Plan?

Please click below to learn more on how you can save up to 25% on New Appliance Extended Service Plans within 30 days of your appliance purchase.

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