How to Fix Sparking/Flashing Microwave - Mica Guide Cover Repair Waveguide Plate Replacement

This applies to microwaves from the early to mid 2000's and earlier that have a mica sheet/waveguide on the top of the inside to cover the magnetron. The mica sheet transfers power from the magnetron, and protects it and other electrical components from steam and food particles. Sometimes food can pop/splatter onto the mica and if left over time, burn and cause sparks or flashing, along with an electrical arcing noise. When this happens, the mica should be replaced. Luckily, it's cheap and easy! Unplug your microwave before taking anything apart - consult a technician if you are not confident in doing this job yourself. Check ebay, Amazon, Google shopping etc for "mica sheet" and you'll find a variety of sizes.

[@bobedwards7927]

I googled this and it said do not replace yourself. Lol. To avoid injury

[@6thGearHouse]

Ha! I'm sure LG would love if you went to the store and spent hundreds of dollars on a new above the range microwave. Sad thing is that new appliances won't last nearly as long as these older ones.

[@barbarajohnson5298]

i hope it works, i am going to order a waveguide from Amazon hopefully it will work the microwave is only 4 months old.

[@madcat4563]

I always put a cover on top of the food that I am heating up. 🤔
My grandmother has a Microwave that's way older than that and it's still ticking.
(will edit this if a can get rough estimate)
Modern household appliances are unfortunately not built to last. 😐

[@6thGearHouse]

I had one from the 70's that was massive, and wouldn't die. I'm a fan of older appliances - built to last!

[@madcat4563]

@@6thGearHouse My Grandmother bought it new in 1982.

[@Aomicplane]

Same. I just bought a combi microwave from 1996 for 10$. Label says made in Sweden. Thing still goes strong, but one of the Mica plate has to be replaced, which is what I'm going to do. Wonder how many more years I can get out of that thing :)