Stop and unplug
Immediately.
Microwave sparking or arcing inside?
Sparking inside a microwave usually comes from metal in the food or dish, a damaged waveguide cover, or chipped interior paint. Stop it immediately and unplug it. Then call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent appliance technician does the repair.
Am I in the right place?Yes for sparks, arcing, popping or burning smells inside the microwave.
Is this urgent?Yes. Stop it immediately. If there is fire, keep the door shut, unplug it if safe, and call 911 if it does not go out.
What do I do next?Stop and unplug it, then call 833-877-1717.
Not heating: microwave not heating.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 13, 2026 · Review standards
What to do now
Keep the door closed if burning
That smothers a small fire. Call 911 if it continues.
Look for metal
Foil, twist ties, metal trim on dishes.
Fire risk
A microwave fire can spread to cabinets. Do not use it again until it is inspected. Never open the case; high-voltage parts are inside.
Common causes
Metal in the microwave
Foil, utensils, metallic trim.
Damaged waveguide cover
The small panel inside the cavity.
Chipped cavity paint
Bare metal arcs.
Food splatter buildup
Burns on the waveguide cover.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code, home or business
- Brand and model number (usually inside the door or on the back)
- What was inside when it sparked
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles microwave repair in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717Microwave sparking or arcing inside questions
Why is my microwave sparking?
Metal inside, a damaged or dirty waveguide cover, or chipped interior paint.
Is a sparking microwave safe to use?
No. Stop using it until it is inspected.
Can I call at night or on a weekend?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.