Testing microwave

[willowman]

My old microwave seems to be taking longer to do anything.
Is there any way I can test it to see if it is still working with full power?
Thanks

[sara3]

willowman, not the answer you're looking for, but they're pretty cheap to buy now.. especially in the sales. you could probably pick up a new, safe, more efficient model for about £20.

[genius1933]

the 'magnetron' ,the thing that generates the microwaves,is eitheron,or off, when you are using it. It doesn't workon ,eg. 'simmer power' the magnetron is simply switched on and off-the off periods being longer when a 'lower power ' setting is selected. If the magnetron is generating microwave energy at all ,then its OK To test put a small amount of water in a cup and five it a few minutes- if the water heats ,then all is OK.
Microwaves only heat water molecules, so if heating plates for example,ALWAYS put a little water between the plates.

[ChuckFickens]

I was going to say exactly the same as Sara.

http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-5670.aspx

[sara3]

or with a grill.. http://www.diy.com/di...7101860&isSearch=true

[willowman]

Thanks all, I know you're right, I should buy a new one, especially now it's sale time!