is electricity smell from microwave after metal was put in it mean the microwave is ruined?
A spoon was placed in the microwave. No sparks were noticed but now when you use the microwave for more than a minute, there is a smell of electicity. The microwave still heats food.
Best Answer
No. If the microwave still heats, it's not ruined. Here's a nice video of the aluminum coating of a CD being burned off by a microwave. Notice the plasma balls rising to the top of the oven. They'll produce ozone, which has an electrical burning sort of smell. You can get the same plasma balls using a match or candle. That doesn't wreck the microwave either; makes a heck of a scary sound though. You can also smelt aluminum, or even silver and iron in your home microwave without damaging the device. If you make a habit of doing things like this, it's best to have a dedicated oven for the job, as melted plastics, heavy metals, and metal oxides do not mix well with food.
Washing out the microwave's insides should take care of any residual smell for you.
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Will my microwave work after putting metal in it?
When you put metal in the microwave, the metal has so many electrons that will get pulled by the microwaves which causes a thin sheet of metal to heat up so quickly that it could burn the appliance. Metal with kinks in it are an even bigger risk.What happens if you accidentally leave metal in the microwave?
The metal isn't going to hurt the food in any way, the food should be fine. As long as the microwave seems to function properly, it should be ok, as well. I have accidentally left utensils in the microwave before and the appliance didn't sustain damage. Damage is just a possibility, not a definite occurrence.Why does my microwave smell electrical?
Odors. Burning odors such as melting plastic or burned wires when the microwave is in use indicate that the electrical components within your microwave are failing. Do not attempt to repair or troubleshoot electrical issues with your microwave, especially if you smell burned plastic or wiring.Can I use a microwave after putting foil in it?
While it's highly unlikely that a small piece of foil is going to cause your microwave oven to totally explode, it could cause a fire. So, it's a good idea to stick to plastic wrap, paper towels and any other non-metal kitchen aids.What happens to METAL in a MICROWAVE?
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Answer 2
What does electricity smell like?
Honestly I have no idea what you mean with a "smell of electricity". :)
If you mean it smells of smoke or burning, then there is something to be concerned about. Metal can but won't with 100% certainty reflect microwaves or damage your microwave. Mind you it is still a very bad idea to put metal in a microwave, it just does not spell its doom right away.
If you do smell burning or smoke, you need to have it checked, as it is possible microwaves were reflected back to the magnetron and caused damage. Although if it still functions and heats food, this means the damage is most likely minor and prolonged use will simply fry a cable or something and you will have to replace it.
EDIT: I am sorry to do this, but i don't have 50 reputation to comment on "Wayfaring Stranger"'s answer and i feel i have to say that NO appliance is working fine and is completely undamaged if after use it smells of electricity (or anything but food). Although the damage or problem could be minor, you might want to have it checked out just in case or to prevent potentially having to buy a whole new microwave in the near future.
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