Ever wondered what to do with an old microwave instead of dragging it out to the curb? If you’ve just replaced a hood vent microwave (like S1d3wayzMindz did recently), you might be surprised at how many cool projects you can try before sending it off to recycling.
Why Old Microwaves Are a Treasure Trove for DIYers
An old microwave isn’t just a bulky kitchen relic—it’s packed with useful components that can be repurposed for all sorts of fun or even practical projects. From powerful transformers to motors and fans, the inside is full of possibilities for anyone interested in DIY electronics or creative reuse. Of course, safety comes first—microwaves store high voltage even after unplugging, so always discharge capacitors and handle parts carefully.
5 Safe & Fun Projects Using Old Microwave Parts
If you’re itching to tinker but not sure where to start, here are some tried-and-true ideas that make the most of what’s inside an old microwave:
- Spot Welder: The large transformer inside (MOT) can be converted into a basic spot welder—a handy tool for small metalworking jobs.
- High-Powered Magnet: The magnetron contains powerful magnets perfect for science experiments or even fridge art (just keep them away from devices).
- Turbine Fan: The cooling fan can be turned into a desk fan or used in homemade air purifiers.
- Turntable Motor: Great for slow-moving art installations or rotating display stands.
- Workshop Light: Salvage the light bulb and housing to make a bright workbench lamp.
There are countless resources online showing step-by-step guides for each of these projects. Just remember—before taking anything apart, unplug the unit and double-check that all capacitors are discharged. Safety gloves and goggles aren’t overkill when dealing with electronic scrap.
Anecdote: From Trash to Treasure
A friend once grabbed an old countertop microwave from a neighbor’s yard sale “free curb pile.” Instead of leaving it for landfill pickup, he turned the transformer into a spot welder that now lives in his garage workshop. It’s not fancy-looking but gets plenty of use fixing garden tools and making small brackets. That one project saved him buying new gear and kept some hefty metal out of the dump.
Other Creative Ways to Reuse Old Microwaves
The outer shell makes sturdy storage boxes or even quirky mailbox covers if you’re handy with paint. Some folks convert the door’s glass panel into picture frames or use the metal mesh as shielding in homemade Faraday cages. And while gutting microwaves is mostly about harvesting parts, sometimes just cleaning them up gives you a new “parts oven” for non-food uses like resin curing (just don’t mix with food again!).
If you prefer not to tinker but still want your appliance put to good use, consider donating it to local makerspaces or schools—they often welcome donations for hands-on learning.
Tips Before Taking Apart an Old Microwave
- Unplug it first!
- Discharge capacitors: High voltage lingers even after unplugging.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Avoid opening the magnetron tube: It contains hazardous materials.
- Sort screws and small parts as you go.
Final Thoughts: What Will You Build?
Old microwaves are more than junk—they’re full of potential waiting to be unlocked by curious hands. Whether you harvest a transformer for welding or simply reuse the fan motor on your next project, taking apart an appliance is as much about learning as it is about making something cool.
What’s your favorite way to reuse appliances? Or have you built something neat from an old microwave? Share your story or plans below!
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