WD40 is one of the best mechanical lubricants for door hinges or loosening nuts. But it’s too smelly, thin, and flammable when exposed to high temperatures and, therefore, unsafe to use on microwave doors. Also, the high liquidity of the WD40 formula can stain the food and, thus unhealthy.
Flammable lubricants are prohibited as far as fixing microwave door hinges is concerned. However, food-grade lubricants, oils, and grease are recommended. It’s also great if the lubricant is available in spray form for easy application and long-lasting to prevent frequent use and reduce costs.
What is WD40?
This is also called a Water Displacement 40th formula for lubricating moving parts such as chains, wheels, rollers, hinges, etc. Also, the formula is ideal for preventing or removing rust from bolts, hinges, power tools, and all metal surfaces.
The applications of WD40 are many; if any movable part isn’t moving, then this formula will solve the problem. That’s why a can of WD40 is handy for any household, manufacturing industry, or garage.
Is WD40 Good For Microwave Doors?
Some might argue that the WD40 formula is a better alternative for cleaning the microwave oven. Yes, it does give your oven a sparkling look in minutes! But the problems come when you put on the microwave and get a smoky, nasty smell that can almost choke you.
The above also applies if the formula is used on the door hinges of the microwave. So can I use WD40 on a microwave door? Whether it’s cleaning or lubricating the door hinges, WD40 isn’t safe for use in the microwave.
What Causes Squeaky Microwave Doors?
The frequent opening and closing of the microwave door can make the hinges not work in unison or dislocate over time. Additionally, the slippery moisture from food can make your microwave door faulty.
That’s not all; the lubricants or oils used to fix the hinges during manufacturing are wearing off and making a creaky sound.
Best Lubricant for Your Microwave Door
Does your microwave door squeak when opened or closed? Then look for non-flammable lubricants like silicone grease or those labeled; oven-safe grease or oven-safe lubricant and apply them to hinges.
Though short-term options, oil, WD40, and other lubricants aren’t convenient as they are flammable or tend to melt because of the high temperatures. However, the oven should be put off when applying the lubricant.
Fixing A Squeaky Microwave Door
- Put the microwave off before applying the multipurpose grease or high-temperature lubricant. This will prevent the can with the lubricant from warping up or blowing up, and also for your safety.
- Open your oven and apply the lubricant to the door hinges per the usage directions.
- Check if the squeaking has stopped by opening and closing the door several times. This helps the applied substance settle in each part of the hinges.
- Finally, wipe off any excess lubricant. Your microwave door should now open and close silently.
What Makes A Microwave Noisy?
Although a faulty microwave door makes it noisy, other internal reasons, as discussed below, can also contribute. Therefore, it’s good to isolate the problem and find ways to fix it. This is because you might find out that fixing a faulty microwave can be cheaper than getting a new one.
Magnetron
The magnetron is a device that cooks food in your microwave using electromagnetic energy. A faulty magnetron can make a scary and loud screeching sound. The magnetron will eventually wear out if the microwave is used frequently and should be replaced.
Diode
A diode works together with the capacitor to supply power to the magnetron. The diode converts AC to DC, which the magnetron needs to operate. A damaged diode prevents the microwave from generating heat energy to warm food and produces a loud buzzing noise.
Addict blades
Also called the cracker wheel can be brushed against the addict casing due to being dislodged from the motor shaft. This will make the microwave screech when you press the start button. Luckily, the wheels can be reseated, but if the problem persists, do a replacement.
Cooling fan motor
A microwave usually makes a low noise when operating. But if a high sound comes from the back of the microwave, the problem is the cooling fan. This results from the fan becoming loose or dislodged, making it bang into the other components as it turns.
Turntable motor or drive motor
A turntable motor supplies power to the turn plate that rotates the food slowly to guarantee even cooking. A faulty motor can sometimes make the plate not turn anymore. Sometimes the motor, though faulty, still works harder, which causes an irritating grinding noise. Just like the magnetron or diode, a faulty motor needs replacement.
Safety Precautions When Repairing a Microwave
You can unplug the microwave from the wall socket for external repairs like lubricating the door hinges. However, extra caution should be taken when you attempt to disassemble the microwave to check or fix the magnetron, diode, motor, and other internal parts.
It would be best if you put on rubberized gloves plus rubberized pliers to prevent burns that may result from the capacitor. This is because the microwave capacitor is designed to store up to 3000 volts and should be discharged before you continue with any further actions.
Lubricants and Sealants for Microwaves and Ovens
Sealants and lubricants in ovens or microwaves join the door frames. Silicone sealants and lubricants are the preferred options because:
- They have high heat resistance capabilities of up to 250 degrees Celsius
- Have a low rate of flammability as compared to other oil-based lubricants
- They have a remarkable ability to bond glass and metals
- Are sustainable in the long run
Though long-lasting, the lubrication that comes with microwave hinges will wear off after some time. The door will now lack the protective liquid and make a squeaky noise when opened or closed. That’s why you need a lubricant to help fix this issue.
A good lubricant for the microwave door should be food-grade and made to withstand high temperatures. The spray-on lube is the best lubricant because it efficiently reaches the hidden oven inches.