Do You Need To Replace Your Microwave Filter? Here's What You Need To Know

Replacing your home’s air filter is a home maintenance task on everyone’s radar, but when was the last time you thought about your microwave’s filter? These filters are crucial components to every microwave since they trap grease and other food particles from your culinary creations, and they’re responsible for filtering out the odors from your meals.

Many homeowners fail to realize the importance of microwave filter maintenance, because let’s be honest… do you give it much thought? It’s also widely misconceived that there’s one universal type of filter to fit every microwave (spoiler alert: this is wrong, too!). That why we’ve created this handy guide to help you locate and determine the type of filter your microwave uses and how often you need to clean your microwave filter so you keep this handy appliance in good use for years to come.

Understanding Microwave Filters

Somewhere on your microwave is one of the most important components: the filter. Like the air filter in your home, a microwave filter is responsible for trapping certain particles to keep them from entering the microwave’s system and causing the appliance to malfunction. It’s also incredibly handy for eliminating odors that build up in your home while you cook your delicious meals.

Every microwave has a filter either on the back or underneath, but there are two main types of filters: grease or charcoal. Here’s what the differences are:

Grease: Mainly used to trap grease and food particles while cooking.
Charcoal: Primarily used to absorb cooking odors and other particles to recirculate air.

Locating Your Microwave Filter

While every microwave has its own filter, the location may be different depending on your model. Most grease filters are found on the bottom of your microwave while charcoal filters are typically around back. But, if you look in these areas and can’t find your filter, make sure to read the instruction manual to find your specific location.

The Importance Of Cleaning & Replacing Filters

Keeping your filters cleaned and replaced on a routine basis is very impactful for the safety of your cooking area and home. Not only does it keep your cooking area clean with a filter that’s trapping harmful debris, but it also keeps the air you breathe clean and safe.

A regularly cleaned microwave filter also keeps the performance of your microwave in check. When the filter becomes clogged, air isn’t able to circulate properly, which can cause the microwave to overheat. This becomes a fire hazard since the trapped particles can ignite and cause a flammable reaction.

When & How To Replace A Charcoal Filter

When it comes to the maintenance of your microwave filters, charcoal filters require a different strategy than grease filters. Grease filters can easily be cleaned with a soapy bath and scrub of a sponge. Charcoal filters, on the other hand, need to be replaced every 6 months or so instead of a clean.

That’s because the charcoal material loses it’s performance when it’s oversaturated with grease and other particles. Cleaning is only going to destroy the material further, so the only way to ensure your charcoal filter stays functioning properly is to completely replace it every 6 months or when you notice one or more of the following:

A shiny surface that’s coated in grease.
Your kitchen has a funky odor or smells, especially when the microwave is in use.
You notice a significant decrease in venting performance.
It’s been at least 6 months or more since you last changed filters.

When it comes time to replace your filter, here are 5 steps to follow for safe replacement:

Turn your microwave completely off by disconnecting the power.
Take a Phillips-head screwdriver and remove vent panel. Keeps the screws close by for later.
With the vent panel removed, locate and lift away the filter and throw it in the trash.
Attach your new charcoal filter in the other filter’s place.
Screw the vent panel back in place with the screws you removed using the Phillips-head screwdriver.

Maintenance Tips For Prolonging Filter Life

With your cleaned grease filter or newcharcoal filter in place, make sure you follow these best practices to try and prolong your filter life and keeping a safe cooking area:

Routinely inspect the filter for abnormal grease or particle build up and to ensure your filter isn’t damaged.
Follow the recommended timeframe of every 6 months for cleaning your grease filter or replacing your charcoal filter.
Check your owner’s manual for other tips the manufacturer recommends for safe use.

And remember, there are signs to watch for that indicate a possible clog or problem with your filter. Any cooking odors that don’t go away with the vent system or a filter that looks incredibly clogged are signs that it’s time to clean or replace your filter to preserve the microwave’s performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my microwave filter?

You should clean grease filters or replace charcoal microwave filters at least every 6 months or when you notice significant build up.

Can I clean a charcoal filter instead of replacing it?

Charcoal microwave filters should never be cleaned since this damages the material. Instead, they need to be replace entirely with a brand new filter.

What are the signs that my microwave filter needs attention?

Seeing a shiny, clogged filter or build up food odors in the kitchen are both signs that you may need to clean or replace your microwave filter.

Are there universal filters, or do I need a specific one for my microwave model?

There are two types of microwave filters: grease or charcoal. Each microwave requires a specific type of filter, so be sure to check the owner’s manual so you know which filter fits properly to your appliance.

What happens if I don’t maintain my microwave filter?

Neglecting microwave filter maintenance can lead to hazardous issues like a clogged filter that increases a fire risk, a build up of odors in your kitchen, and potential damage to the internal system since the appliance isn’t able to circulate air.