Life Span of a Toaster Oven?

**Catty1** · 12-11-2011, 06:21 PM

My mom seems to think that both my toaster oven and microwave should be replaced!

I found out how to check my microwave for leaks: http://www.wikihow.com/Check-a-Microwave-for-Leaks

But I can't find anything on a toaster oven. Mine is a Hamilton Beech, and I have had it for at least 5 years. I use it about 4 times a week, and there are no problems with temperature,etc. I keep it clean.

What are the signs that it's time to replace it?

Thanks!

**Karen** · 12-11-2011, 06:30 PM

If all its function works, and there's no rust or corrosion, it does not need to be replaced. Age has little to do with whether an appliance should go, condition and function are everything!

**Freedom** · 12-11-2011, 08:14 PM

FIVE years? Good for you! I am quite hard on equipment, I tend to break it in about 2 years! So as Karen said, if it works, don't worry about it.

**Karen** · 12-11-2011, 09:13 PM

Our toaster oven is probably 15 or more years old ... don't remember when we bought it, and it is still doing fine!

**Catty1** · 12-12-2011, 12:05 AM

Thanks! Mom is sure these items are going to burn my house down...*sigh*.

**koxka** · 12-12-2011, 03:58 AM

Uh...my microwave oven is leaking! I have tried the cell phone method.

A new microwave oven is now on my wishlist to the Magic Kings!

Thanks for the link.

**beeniesmom** · 12-13-2011, 04:55 AM

Originally Posted by Karen

If all its function works, and there's no rust or corrosion, it does not need to be replaced. Age has little to do with whether an appliance should go, condition and function are everything!

I agree. We have a toaster over that is over 20 years old and works fine. On the other hand we've had appliances conk out after less than a year of normal use.

**Asiel** · 12-13-2011, 09:09 AM

Our toaster oven is 28 yrs old and works as well as the day I bought it. The micro is 12 yrs old and works fine also.

**Catty1** · 12-13-2011, 11:10 AM

koxka - what is the cell phone method?

I tried it - but am I supposed to unplug the microwave first?

Thanks.

**koxka** · 12-13-2011, 11:37 AM

LOL, Can-Dance, That's on the link you posted!!

To sum up:

Unplug the oven

1-Put your cell phone in the microwave. Shut the door.

2-Do not turn on the microwave!

3-Dial the number of your cell phone. If it rings, you have a leak. If it doesn't ring, your microwave oven is fine.

The question is if your oven is hermetic ot not enough for the electromagnetic waves come in or out.

Haven't tried the fluorescent tube yet for large leaks.