Microwave Problems

I have a problem with my microwave oven, Why does it sometimes buzz and flash blue?

I have a Panasonic microwave. It has started to buzz and sends a blue and yellow light flashes across the inside mainly when I cook or reheat a small amount of food. A few months ago we had a power line down and it was shorting out on the pylon, is this connected. The unit is 3 years old. Can this be fixed or does it require replacement

Public Comments

1. That doesn't sound good. You had no metal inside when you used it? If not, it sounds like something is fried in the electronics, maybe the microwave generator. Probably cheaper to replace.
2. I agree with the first answer: probably easier/cheaper to replace it. Replacement cost of the magnetron is about as expensive as a new oven. You can also ask a repair person if they think it would be worthwhile to repair it. This forum is probably not the best place for that.
3. I agree with the other two answers, it's not worth repairing but best replaced, the only reason I'm answering is to check perhaps an obvious question but it's surprising how often it's overlooked. Are you using a container with the least amount of metal on it? even a silver or gold rimmed piece of crockery will do this, apologies if you've already ruled that out.
4. This sounds like the classic mistake of putting tin-foil or something metalic in your microwave. Perhaps you are using plates with gold rims.. "Lighnting" flashes are generally caused when you put something metal or metal based, in the microwave, even a cup with a wee spot of gold design on it can cause these flashes!!!
5. sounds like you are using it with too small an amount of food, equivalent to operating it empty. Next time you have the problem, put a cup of cold water in the oven at the same time and see if that helps. Also check that your containers are microwave safe. If in doubt, try a different one. .
6. It's an attention seeker and is jealous of the tv.