Ask Appliance Rescue: Why is My Microwave Sparking?

When your microwave is sparking, it’s a clear sign of an issue – but it doesn’t necessarily mean your microwave is at the end of its life. If you notice sparking, discontinue use and inspect the following:

Is there metal in the microwave?

Most of us know that metal inside a microwave causing sparking, but sometimes a forgetful mishap can land a fork in the microwave by mistake. What could be less obvious is a speck of tin foil left on a dish as you reheat. Inspect for metal just to be sure that isn’t the issue.

 Is the Wave Guide Cover damaged?

If you look inside your microwave, you will notice a square plate off to one side that is known as the wave guide cover. This cover conceals the magnetron in the microwave, and it also guides the heat waves toward the food. If food particles or grease get stuck on the cover, the waves released from the magnetron can hit that debris and cause numerous sparks to fly. 

Is your microwave rack support the culprit?

Some microwaves have racks and require microwave rack supports. Simply put, if you notice sparking coming from the support areas of the racks, then that’s a good indicator that the microwave rack supports need to be replaced. 

Still not sure what is causing your microwave to spark? Call the experts at Appliance Rescue Service today to fix the issue. Many times, sparking in the microwave is an easy fix and does not require a microwave replacement. Our technician will conduct a thorough inspection of your appliance and give you a detailed estimate before any microwave repair is done. We’ll have your microwave up and running again in no time – with no sparking! Call Appliance Rescue Service in Dallas, Texas for all your Dallas appliance repair needs!  

5 Things You Should Never Put in Your Microwave

Sure, microwaves are one of the greatest kitchen inventions of our time. Most of us are too young to remember the days before you could just pop food in and heat it up in a matter of minutes. 

While modern-day microwaves can take on quite a bite of abuse, there are certain things that just don’t belong in the microwave. Microwaving these 5 things is a sure fire way to ruin your microwave, create a huge mess, and call for Dallas microwave repair:

Plastic

Plastic plates, cups, and to-go containers just don’t belong in the microwave. First of all, they can begin to melt, leaving plastic residue in your food (not fun). Secondly, as plastic is heated, it secretes BPA, a substance known to disrupt your hormones and cause other health issues. The same applies to styrofoam.

Paper Bags

A bag of popcorn goes in the microwave – why can’t other paper bags? It’s simple. Popcorn bags are made for the microwave, specially formulated with a substance in the liner to absorb radio waves in the microwave. Regular paper bags don’t have this; therefore, they can break down, catch fire!, or even emit their own toxins and fumes into the microwave. No thanks.

Travel Mugs

It’s tempting to heat your coffee in your travel mug before leaving for work, but don’t do it! Travel mugs – whether stainless steel or plastic – are just not designed to be heated in the microwave. The stainless steel mugs may not heat because steel is common in the construction of the microwave, plus, it may cause other interferences with the microwaves. Plastic mugs – even those that say they are microwave safe – may melt, so avoid them all together. 

Foil

Most people know this, but it’s worth repeating. Any liner or material that contains foil cannot go into the microwave. If it does, it will likely cause sparks in the microwave, as the waves reflect off of the foil. This can be extremely dangerous – not to mention a surefire way to need microwave repair.

Nothing

Why would anyone run the microwave with nothing in it? It seems pretty straightforward, but people do it everyday, and the results are not good. Without any food in the microwave, the waves simply bounce around aimlessly and can cause severe damage to the microwave components. 

Hopefully these tips help your microwave last longer and prevent microwave repair. Should you ever need appliance repair in Dallas, Texas, call us at Appliance Rescue Service for the best appliance repairman every time!

Spring Cleaning: How to Clean Those Dirty Tennis Shoes in the Washing Machine

The new year has many of us decluttering and throwing out things that “aren’t sparking joy” Mario Kondo style. But before you throw out those old tennis shoes, think, “would I still love these if they weren’t so dirty?” If the answer is yes, then read on to learn how to wash your dirty tennis shoes at home in the washing machine, courtesy of Appliance Rescue Service:

Step 1: Sprinkle Baking Soda Inside the Shoes

Baking soda is known for its deodorizing properties, so sprinkle a little in your shoes the night before you plan to wash to get a fully fresh scent the next day. 

Step 2: Remove Laces and Insoles

Before putting your shoes in the washing machine, remove the laces and put them in a laundry bag, or a pillow case if you don’t have one. Take the insoles out as well and hand wash those.

Step 3: Remove Debris

If you want to avoid DFW washing machine repair, don’t skip this step! Before you ever put your sneakers in the washing machine, get an old toothbrush or other soft bristled brush and scrub any caked dirt or debris off of the shoes. Otherwise, that debris may end up clogging your washing machine and creating costly issues.

Step 4: Wash the Shoes

Now it’s time to begin the wash! Throw your tennis shoes in a laundry bag, then place in the washing machine with a few old towels to muffle the banging and clunking in the washing machine. The laundry bag is necessary to prevent the shoes from causing any damage to the washing drum. Add adequate liquid detergent for your load, then run the delicate cycle with cold water. Important tip: never use powdered detergent for washing tennis shoes in the washing machine, as it can get caked up in the shoes. 

Step 5: Air Dry

This is the most tedious part! In order to get those tennis shoes looking brand new and avoid shrinkage or warping, do not put the tennis shoes in the dryer. Instead, just set them out to air dry. 

As always, if you ever suspect issues with your washing machine and need washing machine repair, call the #1 appliance repair company in DFW, Appliance Rescue Service.

What Happens If I Don’t Change My Refrigerator’s Water Filter?

It’s a question we often get from homeowners: What will happen if I don’t change my refrigerator’s water filter? 

The short answer is nothing you’ll immediately notice.

However – you are compromising on water quality, and may over time, damage your refrigerator. Read on to learn more about water filtration in your refrigerator from Appliance Rescue in Dallas, Texas:

Why You Must Change the Water Filter

If your filter light has been red for some time, telling you to change the water filter, but you feel like you can’t tell a difference so it’s fine – then you’re mistaken. Water filters are designed to last about 6 months, and after that point, the filter stops being as effective. This means that pollutants, minerals, and other sediments from the pipes - or things that the water treatment plant doesn’t remove - can find their way into your water supply. You may also begin to notice an odor or slightly odd taste to the water – it’s because the water isn’t being effectively filtered.

Another reason to change the filter? The water will begin to flow more slowly, as the dirty filter clogs and cuts off the water’s ability to flow freely. This can lead to buildup in your refrigerator, damaging components, if left unchecked over time.

How Often Do I Change My Refrigerator’s Water Filter?

Most manufacturers recommend changing your filter every 6 months. Many refrigerators will have an indicator light that will shine when it’s time to change the filter, just be sure to reset it once you change the filter!

If you’re not sure how to change your refrigerator’s water filter or suspect some other refrigerator repair is needed, then call us at Appliance Rescue Service in Dallas, Texas. As a leading appliance repairman in Dallas, we will get your problem solved quickly and courteously. Proudly serving Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding suburbs. 

Dishwasher Issues: Why are My Glasses Coming out Cloudy?

When it happens, it can be very frustrating. 

While it’s not a huge dishwasher repair, removing cloudy glasses after a dishwasher cycle is both frustrating and perplexing. What is causing the issue? Should I get a new dishwasher? Here are a few reasons why your glasses might be coming out of the dishwasher cloudy and what we recommend at Appliance Rescue Service in Frisco, Texas to fix the issue:

Reason #1: Too Much Detergent

If your glasses are coming out of the dishwasher cloudy, then one reason can be that you are using too much detergent. That cloudiness can actually be residue left from caked on soap. 

Solution: Remove all dishes from your dishwasher and give your dishwasher a deep clean with vinegar. Vinegar will dissolve detergent residue that is lurking inside your machine. Also be sure to switch to pods that will emit just the right amount of detergent into your dishwasher and help prevent the issue.

Reason #2: Hard Water

Did you just move to a new home and are noticing issues with cloudy glasses? It could be the water. Hard water is considered “hard” because it is high in calcium and magnesium, often leaving behind limescale on your dishes or anything the water touches. While you might not see it on your other dishes, it’s more obvious on your glassware. 

Solution: Again, vinegar to the rescue! Soak a microfiber cloth in white vinegar and rub down your glassware to remove the film. You can also try newspaper, as it is also a great tool for removing the mineral buildup.

Reason #3: Etching 

Another reason your glasses might be coming out of the dishwasher cloudy is that they might be permanently etched. That etching can look like cloudiness, but if you look closely, you’ll see the tiny scratches. This can be a result of too much soap, detergent that is high in phosphates, or soft water.

Solution: If you notice your issue is actually etching the glass, then experiment with different soaps and cleaning methods to see what stops the etching for occurring in the future.

Still suspect dishwasher repair is needed? Appliance Rescue Service in Frisco, Texas is always here to help! Give us a call for fast, friendly, and quality service every time. We pride ourselves on being the best appliance repair in Frisco, Texas!