Safety Alert: Some Toshiba Microwaves are Starting on Their Own
Consumers are reporting that microwaves are causing smoke, sparks, and melting parts
Consumer Reports is advising owners of certain Toshiba-branded microwaves, including air fryer-microwave combos, to use caution when operating them and to leave them unplugged when not in use. The warning is prompted by more than two dozen reports of the appliances auto-starting or adding cooking time on their own, resulting in overheating, sparks, smoke, and fire.
All but four of the complaints involved a combination air fryer-microwave with the model number ML2-EC10SA or ML2-EC10SA(BS), the latter being a black stainless steel version. In six of those reports, consumers say they contacted the manufacturer about the problem and were not given a remedy. Two incidents cite model number ML2-EC09SA, another combination air fryer-microwave oven. Microwave ovens with model numbers EM131A5C and EM925A5A-SS were also each cited in one incident.
“If you have one of these appliances, your safest bet is to monitor it while it’s operating, don’t leave it unattended while in use, avoid storing items inside the microwave, and unplug it after using it,” says Juan Alberto Arguello, PhD, CR’s test program leader for product safety. “Plastic and insulation overheating can produce hazardous fumes, including formaldehyde or other toxic compounds, depending on the plastics and coatings involved,” Arguello says.
"We are aware of reports involving a limited number of units of Toshiba Microwave Air Fryer Oven ML2-EC10SA in which the power button can stick in a way that causes unintended activation of the 30-second add-time function,” the spokesperson told CR in an email. “We have found no evidence that this issue poses a safety risk—any effect is contained within the unit and does not result in an external hazard.”
The company said consumers who’ve experienced these issues with this model should call Midea at 866-646-4332 to have their microwave’s issue evaluated, and to receive free service and support. Midea did not comment on reports of parts melting or smoke pouring out of the microwave when opened, as some consumers reported.
“All of our products undergo rigorous validation testing prior to commercial release to help ensure performance, reliability, and compliance with applicable standards,” the spokesperson said.
In addition to contacting the manufacturer, consumers who experience this problem with their microwave should report it to the CPSC via SaferProducts.gov, says Gabe Knight, a senior policy analyst on Consumer Reports’ safety policy team.
“CR is calling on the CPSC to investigate these incidents and the potential fire hazard posed by certain Toshiba appliances, and take action as necessary to protect the public, which may include securing a recall,” Knight says.
The affected air fryer-microwave models are still being sold by major retailers, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Wayfair.
