Is Your Microwave Recalled? Check Model Number

This safety guide covers an important hazard that requires prompt attention. While it may not be an immediate emergency, taking action now prevents escalation into a dangerous situation.

How to Check If Your Microwave Is Recalled#

Follow these steps to determine if your microwave has an active recall or class action:

1. Find the model number — countertop microwaves have it on the back panel. Over-the-range models have it inside the door, on the door frame, or behind the vent grille
2. Whirlpool/KitchenAid over-the-range microwaves had a recall for fire risk during certain cooking modes — check your model
3. Search cpsc.gov/Recalls with your brand and "microwave"
4. If your microwave sparks during operation, arcs inside the cavity, or the door does not latch properly, stop using it regardless of recall status

Why This Matters#

Millions of recalled appliances remain in use because their owners never received the recall notification. CPSC estimates that only 30-40% of recalled consumer products are actually repaired or returned. This means more than half of all recalled appliances are still in homes, creating ongoing safety risks for families who are unaware of the defect. Checking your appliance recall status takes less than 5 minutes and could prevent a fire, gas leak, or injury.

After Checking — Next Steps#

Whether or not your appliance is currently recalled, these ongoing practices protect your household:

• Register your microwave with the manufacturer
• Replace any microwave older than 10 years — door seal degradation can allow microwave radiation leakage beyond FDA limits
• Over-the-range microwaves have additional recall risk from mounting bracket failures — check that yours is securely mounted
• If your microwave has a recall for fire risk, do not attempt to use it for "short times only" — fire risk exists regardless of cook duration

Common Recall Patterns for Microwaves#

Understanding common recall patterns helps you evaluate potential risks even before a recall is announced. Based on CPSC data, here are the most frequent defect categories for microwave recalls:

• Overheating during extended use: Microwaves from Whirlpool (1.8M units) and LG (316K units) recalled for overheating that can cause fire.
• Door interlock failures: Microwaves with failing door switches that do not properly cut power when the door is opened.

Official Resources and Contacts#

These official resources provide authoritative information and assistance:

• CPSC Microwave Recalls — All microwave-related recalls from CPSC.
• FDA Microwave Safety — FDA guidance on microwave radiation safety standards and testing.

Frequently Asked Questions#

Can a recalled microwave cause radiation exposure?#

Most microwave recalls are for fire risk (sparking, arcing, overheating), not radiation leakage. Microwave radiation leakage is extremely rare in properly functioning units — the FDA limits leakage to 5 milliwatts per square centimeter at 2 inches from the surface. However, a microwave with a damaged door seal, warped door, or broken interlock switch could potentially exceed this limit. If your microwave door does not close firmly or the door is dented, stop using it. Professional microwave leakage testers varies by model and condition and are available for home use.

Where is the model number on an over-the-range microwave?#

Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves typically place the model/serial sticker inside the door (on the bottom edge of the door or on the door frame), or behind the air vent grille on the top or bottom of the unit. Some GE and Whirlpool OTR models have it inside the cavity on the right wall. For countertop microwaves, check the back panel. The model number is usually 8-12 characters and is different from the UPC or barcode number.

When should I replace my microwave for safety?#

Replace a microwave immediately if: it sparks or arcs during operation, the door does not close/latch firmly, the door is dented or warped, it makes unusual humming/buzzing louder than normal, or it heats inconsistently (cold spots indicate magnetron failure). For safety, most experts recommend replacing microwaves after 10 years of regular use — the magnetron and door seals degrade over time. If your microwave is on a recall list, do not wait for a repair appointment if the recall notice says "stop use."

Not sure if your appliance is safe? Our certified technicians can inspect your microwave, verify recall status, and ensure it is operating safely. Book a safety inspection at /book.