Why Is My Microwave Smoking? 3 Potential Causes and Solutions

1. Leftover Food or Grease

Leftover food particles, grease, or other buildup inside your microwave can start to burn during use, which may lead to smoke while heating up your next meal.

How to Fix It

If you notice a smoky smell coming from your microwave, switch it off right away and unplug it. In case a fire breaks out inside, don’t open the door—leave it shut for at least 15 minutes to allow the flames to die out safely. Afterward, take out the item you were heating and clean the interior thoroughly.

To reduce the risk of this happening again, make it a habit to wipe away any spills and remove food remnants after each use. Regular cleaning is also important. For the best results, refer to the user manual for detailed cleaning guidelines specific to your model.

2. Improper Use

Improper use of a microwave can easily result in smoke, much like the sparks caused by placing metal or foil inside. Overheating food—whether by setting the timer too long or using too much power—can lead to smoking. Some materials, like paper bags, aren’t microwave-safe and can ignite when exposed to high heat. Even certain vegetables, including kale or bell peppers, contain enough minerals to spark, catch fire, and release smoke during cooking.

How to Fix It

If your microwave starts to emit smoke or you notice flames inside, unplug it right away and keep the door closed to allow the fire to burn out safely. Once the flames are gone, wait at least 15 minutes before opening the door. Discard the food that was being heated and give the interior a deep clean.

Before using the appliance again, take time to review the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you’re aware of what is safe and unsafe to place inside.

3. Electrical Issues

Imagine you’ve thoroughly cleaned your microwave and made sure you’re only using safe foods and containers, yet it still produces smoke. In that case, the problem might lie with an internal electrical part that’s malfunctioning.

How to Fix It

If you’re not familiar with handling electrical parts, it’s wiser to let an SD Appliance Repair expert take over. A technician who specializes in small appliances can diagnose the issue and help you decide whether it’s worth repairing the microwave or if replacing it would be the smarter choice.

When to Call a Pro

Some microwave issues can be handled on your own. If the smoke is caused by leftover food or accidentally overheating your meal, following the earlier tips can help you solve the problem and avoid future incidents.
But if the cause isn’t clear—or you suspect something electrical might be wrong—it’s best to contact a qualified SD Appliance Repair technician. Microwaves can still hold a dangerous electrical charge long after being unplugged, so attempting repairs yourself could be risky.