Grease Beware: How Cooking Habits Can Damage Your Microwave and What to Do About It

If you're someone who loves cooking up a storm, chances are you're familiar with the splatter of oil that seems to coat every surface around your stove. But did you know that this seemingly harmless grease could be wreaking havoc on your kitchen appliances, particularly your over-the-range (OTR) microwave?

Here's the scoop: when you use a lot of oil, it turns into a fine mist that can coat everything above your stove, from cabinets to your beloved microwave. Not only does this greasy film create a cleaning nightmare, but it can also cause serious damage to your appliances.

Take OTR microwaves, for example. They're designed to withstand a lot, but they're not invincible. The grease from your cooking adventures can infiltrate the microwave's delicate components, causing interlock switches to stick and leading to short circuits. Ever experienced your microwave tripping the breaker the instant you open its door? That could very well be the result of grease build-up.

And it's not just the electronics that suffer. Poor clearance between the microwave and your cooktop can exacerbate the issue, hindering proper ventilation and reducing the appliance's efficiency. Plus, let's not forget about those grease filters—they're not just for show. Regularly cleaning them with a non-toxic degreaser can make a world of difference in maintaining your microwave's performance.

Now, let's talk about brands. While Samsung might be a household name, their OTR microwaves have a reputation for being less than stellar in design and durability. From phantom touches to display failures, these models are prone to issues, especially when exposed to moisture from your cooking escapades.

So, what's the solution? Consider opting for an analog range hood instead. They're more cost-effective, reliable, and efficient at removing grease and odors from your kitchen. And when it comes to microwaves, do you really need that fancy OTR model? Countertop microwaves are budget-friendly and often more than capable of handling your everyday reheating and defrosting needs.

In the end, investing in proper kitchen ventilation and choosing the right appliances can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the road. So, the next time you're whipping up a culinary masterpiece, keep an eye on that grease and give your kitchen the love and care it deserves.