Experiencing a flame inside a microwave is a serious safety concern and should not be ignored. Flames are not a normal occurrence in a microwave and can be extremely dangerous. There could be several potential reasons for a fire or sparking in the microwave:
Foreign object or debris: It is possible that there was a small foreign object or debris inside the microwave that caused the sparking. Even a tiny piece of metal, such as a staple or aluminum foil, left unnoticed inside the microwave can lead to sparks and potentially a fire.
Damaged or worn-out microwave components: Over time, the internal components of a microwave can wear out or become damaged. A faulty magnetron (the component responsible for generating microwaves) or other electrical issues could cause sparking or lead to a fire.
Microwave-safe dishware: While you mentioned there was no metal involved, it's essential to ensure that the dishware you use is microwave-safe. Certain materials, such as dishes with metallic or metallic-accented designs, can cause sparks or fires when exposed to microwave energy.
Food contents: Certain types of food, especially those with high fat or sugar content, can cause sparking if they become too hot and reach their ignition point.
To address this issue:
Stop using the microwave immediately: If you experience any sparking or flames inside the microwave, turn it off immediately and unplug it from the power source.
Allow the microwave to cool: Keep the microwave door closed to allow any potential fire to smother itself due to the lack of oxygen.
Inspect the microwave: Once it has cooled down, carefully inspect the interior of the microwave for any signs of damage, foreign objects, or debris.
Check dishware and food: Ensure that the dishware you used is indeed microwave-safe, and there are no food residues or other objects that could cause sparking.
Professional inspection and repair: If you can't identify the cause of the issue or suspect a faulty component, it's best to contact the manufacturer or a certified microwave repair technician to inspect and repair the microwave.
In the interest of safety, it's crucial not to use the microwave until you have identified the cause of the problem and resolved it. If necessary, consider replacing the microwave with a new one if it cannot be safely repaired. Remember that safety should always be the top priority when dealing with electrical appliances like microwaves.