Microwave Oven Effects

Knowing the dangers of microwave oven radiation is an important part of keeping yourslef and your family safe. With this knowledge and a detector you can keep your microwave oven safe.

How close can I get to a microwave?

If a microwave is properly shielded and has no leaks you can get very close to a microwave with no ill effects. If the microwave does have a leak you shouldn't get any closer than 3 feet and should stay at least 5 feet away. After 3 feet most of the harmful radiation has dissapated.

I have a pacemaker, should I be worried?

Maybe. Older pacemakers are not as advanced as todays. Todays pacemakers have an electromagnetic shielding built in and should easily tolerate the electromagnetic disturbance that occurs from a modern microwave oven. If your oven has a leak it is best for the person with the pacemaker to not be in the same room.

I've heard microwave ovens can cause some really bad health problems.

Yes they potentially can. Microwave radiation has been linked to cataracts, cancer, birth defects, headaches, and central nervous system damage. The level of exposure is what will determine the amount of damage that is done and many of the listed problems only come with high exposure levels. It's still best not to take a chance though. Detecting a leak and handling it is always the best course of action.