[HomeGirl]

I have read here and there about the concept of old microwaves...the twist-the-timer style convenience-store-famous ones... and how the seals break down and their radiation can be harmful. Is this true? Is there a point before total no-power failure that you need to just get a new one?

[sinamin]

Well I don't know at what point technically myself but my opinion is that any of the real old microwaves, one should find out how to discard them immediately.

I remember reading about 15 years back on the actual manual for the microwave we had at work. It said:

DO NOT stand in front of the microwave while in operation. DO NOT look inside the glass window.

I have always remembered that and although they say that is not the case now, I have never stuck my face in the front of a microwave to look.

[HomeGirl]

Eeek. Indeed, I remember those old warning labels. I have family members that are still hanging on to their old microwaves - they're so inexpensive now that it boggles me why they keep them; I mean, ain't NOBODY in the family as tightwad as me, and my model still has some shine on it! Heh.

[10cents]

As I'ved said in other threads, I tend to be really careful around Microwaves. It must those movies where they use the appliance as an improvised bomb. I could also imagine my skin being "excited" w/o me knowing it. That's how microwaves cook, by exciting particles and causing friction and heat.

[wingnut]

Originally Posted by HomeGirl

I have read here and there about the concept of old microwaves...the twist-the-timer style convenience-store-famous ones... and how the seals break down and their radiation can be harmful. Is this true? Is there a point before total no-power failure that you need to just get a new one?

I always say when an appliance starts to show wear and tear, it's time to dispose of it or bring it to a service shop for inspection and repair. Older appliances also does not posses the safety features of newer models.

[ODEDNOA]

so if I have old microwave that the technician said it has radiation leaking
I have to dispose it
or it worse tring to correct it ?

[technoflutemom]

I've read that if you can fit a sheet of paper between the seals, throw it away. I think if you are at all in doubt, get a new one.