How can I upcycle or reuse a microwave oven?

by Barb

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My microwave went KABLOOEY after 5 seconds running empty. I was trying to dry the water from the tray!

7 answers

Ken Erickson on Sep 22, 2019

Take it to an appliance recycle center.

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- Barb on Sep 23, 2019
  
  I don't think we have one within reasonable driving range.
  
  1 marked as helpful
- Ken Erickson on Sep 24, 2019
  
  Check with your local garbage service. Also, contact Best Buy - they take a lot of electrical stuff for recycle.
  
  Helpful
Dee on Sep 22, 2019

Yup it is dead.

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- Em on Dec 19, 2020
  
  Wow a microwave doctor.
  
  Helpful
- Dee on Dec 19, 2020
  
  The costs of new microwaves are low right now. It would cost more to fix it. I did the same thing and mine blew magnetron tube,
  
  The magnetron inside a microwave can contain beryllium oxide in their ceramic insulators which can be fatal if it gets into the lungs. Simply removing it is safe, but never try to take one apart. It's not worth it!
  
  Helpful
17335038 on Sep 22, 2019

How about repurposing it into a Little Free Library?

https://littlefreelibrary.org/little-free-libraries-shoestring-budget/

https://littlefreelibrary.org

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- Barb on Sep 23, 2019
  
  Thanks for that. Don't know if it'll work out here in hillbillies haven. I am tickled to hear about it!
  
  1 marked as helpful
- 17335038 on Sep 24, 2019
  
  You're welcome.
  
  I saw a picture in a book one time of a Little Free Library made from an old microwave. It contained small romance paperbacks.
  The sign said, get a 'quick and hot' free read.
  
  Helpful
Em on Dec 19, 2020

Use the turntable for a small table top on porch or a bird feeder/bath in yard.

1 marked as helpful Reply

Deb K on Dec 29, 2020

Hi Barb, you can pull the guts out, and cut off the plug, and use is as a bread box, or storage of some type in the kitchen, mailbox etc.
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/284782376416349599/

https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/383650461980281497/

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Cynthia H on Dec 29, 2020

Hi! Find out where you can recycle it in your area safely. Some local areas have annual electronic drives. Stay well!

Helpful Reply
Johnavallance82 on Jun 22, 2021

Hi,
Cut the Plug off and use as a cupboard for storing, Light Bulbs, Fuses etc. Use the turntable as a Lazy Susan. Enjoy!

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