If you turn on a microwave oven without the door properly closed, several hazardous and potentially damaging situations can occur:
Radiation Leakage: The primary concern is the leakage of microwave radiation. Microwave ovens are designed with safety measures to prevent radiation leakage when the door is closed. If the door is open or not properly sealed, microwave radiation can escape into the surrounding area, potentially causing harm to people nearby.
Electromagnetic Interference: Microwaves emit electromagnetic radiation, which can interfere with electronic devices and communication signals. Operating a microwave without the door closed may disrupt nearby electronics, such as Wi-Fi routers, cell phones, and other sensitive devices.
Damage to the Microwave: Running a microwave with an open door can damage the oven's components. The microwave generates electromagnetic waves to heat food by exciting water molecules, and without a closed microwave cavity, this energy can't be contained properly. It may cause arcing or short circuits, leading to potential damage to the microwave's electronics or even a fire.
Fire Hazard: If the microwave oven has no safety mechanisms to shut off the microwave emitter when the door is open, it could result in a fire. Microwaves are designed to turn off immediately when the door is opened to prevent this type of danger.
To emphasize, never operate a microwave oven with an open or malfunctioning door. It's essential to maintain the safety features of the microwave and ensure that the door closes and seals properly before using the appliance. If you suspect that your microwave is not functioning correctly or has damaged seals, it is best to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified technician or replace the microwave altogether.