Is an accessory rack or pan installed?

Metal oven-proof bakeware should only be used during Oven functions such as air fry, toast, bake, convect bake, roast, broil, and dehydrate cycles (on some models). Using the provided accessory racks with microwave function can cause arcing or sparking. 

Tips

• When cooking oily or juicy foods, place an oven-proof baking plate on the oven's bottom to catch dripping oil or juice.
• There are three levels (depending on the model) to place the accessories; placing the appropriate accessories onto the right level will help you to achieve the best results.

Are the utensils and/or cookware microwave safe?

Metal cookware and bakeware, gold, silver, pewter, non-approved meat thermometers, skewers, twist ties, foil liners such as sandwich wrappers, staples, and objects with gold or silver trim or a metallic glaze should not be used in the microwave oven. If used, they could cause sparking or arcing in the microwave. 

Refer to What Type of Dishes can I Use in my Microwave for more tips. 

Was metal or aluminum foil used in the microwave?

Aluminum foil and some metal can be used in the microwave oven.  If not used properly, arcing can occur and cause damage to the microwave oven.

Visit Can Metal or Aluminum Foil be Used in the Microwave for more information. 

Is the convection rack or crisping pan touching the cavity walls, ceiling, or floor?

The convection rack and crisping pan are available on some models. To avoid damage to the microwave oven, do not allow the rack or pan to touch the inside cavity walls, ceiling, or floor. Reminder, when using the crisper pan use the turntable as a support for the crisper pan. Do not place the crisper pan on the convection rack or the baking tray(some models).

Check out Using the Convection Rack for more information. 

Were vegetables being cooked in the microwave?

When cooking certain vegetables with high mineral content in a microwave, an arcing effect may occur in or on the food itself. 

Review Why Certain Vegetables May Cause Arcing for more information. 

Is there soil buildup in the microwave oven cavity?

Soil build-up on cavity walls, microwave cover, cooking rack supports, and the area where the door touches the frame can cause arcing.

Refer to the Use & Care manual for complete details on cleaning the microwave.

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