My microwave is sparking and flashing inside ??

Question

My microwave has just started flashing and sparking on the inside just around a little square silver cardboard looking thing which covers up a square hole. What i want to know is what is the little silver square cover and why does it cover the hole ? and ultimately why is it sparking ?

I have actually removed it an the microvave works fine, just wondering what it is ?

Answer 1

It covers the internal light. It is easy to remove, just slips out.
Remove it and try the microwave again, it can be used without the light cover.

Answer 2

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Hello, AV is correct but simple wiping may not be enough. I googled it and found some info that I picked out and put here, the whole link follows in my source: ... Along the side (or in the back in some models) is a rectangular piece that usually looks like a metal plate. It's called a "wave guide cover," and it's screwed into the microwave wall over an opening. ... When food becomes stuck to it, even a tiny speck can sometimes make it spark and even send spark showers throughout the oven. ... First, unplug the microwave. Put it where there is plenty of light and remove the screws that hold the wave guide cover in place. Place them where they won't get lost and carefully remove the wave guide cover. You may have to use a little force to get it loose, especially if the wall has food or grease on it. Don't use anything sharp to pry it loose. A butter knife or the edge of a plastic lid will do. Using a soft cloth and plain water, gently clean the wave guide cover. If something is stuck to it, use your fingernail or a piece of plastic mesh to remove it. Be very careful as the material is somewhat fragile. It's ok to let the cover get wet, but be sure it's completely dry before replacing it. Clean the area around the opening that was covered by the wave guide cover very carefully, making sure to not get any moisture or food inside the opening. When you're sure both are completely clean and dry, replace the cover, plug in the microwave and try it. Most of the time, this will do the trick. If, however, it doesn't and you're still getting spark showers inside the microwave oven, you'll need to replace the wave guide cover. Write down the exact make, model and anything else you can find on your microwave oven, then call around for a store that will sell you a replacement. That may be a lot easier said than done because most people don't repair microwaves, they just toss them out and buy new ones. However, the part is inexpensive and can get you several more years of use from your oven - well worth the effort. ...

Answer 3

Microwave Flashing

Answer 4

The part you've taken out is called "the wave guide shield, this protects the magnetron from fats and food from getting on it, you will soon find the microwave will start sparking inside the magnetron, this will be terminal. Best thing to do is get in contact with you local repair shop and they will be able to supply you with a new shield , but make sure you clean up any fats where the shield fits. the part should be no more than £5-6 depending on the size of the shield

Answer 5

It must be metal - are you sure it should be in there, and isn't just a bit of packaging? It's not good that it is flashing and sparking. If in doubt ask an electrician.

Answer 6

sounds like it is the electricity/ microwave thingies creating an arc.
Bad news as it could cause flameage!!!
get it tested out do not try to 'fix' this yourself.
Microwaves are cheap enough now to just replace, better than burning your house down. :0)

Answer 7

take any type of metal out of the microwave