Do you think microwave ovens pose risks for your family? They do, but they may not be the ones you think. One common injury from microwave use is burns, including very serious ones. Overheating water can lead to a phenomenon called superheated water- where the water is actually heated past its boiling point. It’s hard to tell when water is superheated because the water does not appear to be boiling.
Superheating may occur when you heat water in a clean cup. When it occurs, even a slight movement like picking up the cup or adding hot chocolate mix or a spoonful of instant coffee may result in a violent eruption of boiling water out of the cup.
To prevent superheating of water, follow the recommendations in your microwave’s instruction manual for heating times. Always avoid using excessive heating times when you are heating water or liquids in your microwave.