Can you microwave water? Is it safe to boil water in the microwave? What is so dangerous about boiling water in the microwave?
The microwave has been a household kitchen staple since it was invented in the 1940s. The appliance is recognized for reducing effort, improving efficiency in the kitchen and making tasks more convenient. Boiled water can be used for many purposes like cooking or making heated beverages like coffee, hot cocoa, or tea.
However, the concerns about its safety have resulted in answers to questions are vague and abstract, specifically how a microwave affects water. This article evaluates if it is ok to boil water in the microwave, if it is safe and any precautions you should take to avoid potential microwave dangers.
Is it safe to boil water in the microwave?
How does a microwave heat water? The microwave uses electromagnetic radiation to move water molecules and cause friction, which results in heat as a form of energy.
Microwave radiation works by causing water molecules with opposite poles to start spinning rapidly and bounce around, which causes friction resulting in a build up of heat energy. The ambient air isn’t directly heated because the air molecules are not as polar as molecules in water.
One study tested how different microwaving temperatures affect water properties. The tests concluded that you can microwave water to the boiling point [1].
The analysis pointed out that the electromagnetic waves within microwaves heat water molecules in an uneven or disorganized approach. Further examination revealed that some areas were not being heated long enough, which results in pockets of boiling water underneath layers of cooler water.
As a result, it’s important to give the water a quick stir before using. Consider stopping the microwave once or twice to give the water a quick stir, and then resume microwaving on high.
Be sure to use a microwave safe container to boil water in the microwave.
Does microwaving water purify it? Water must be heated to a rolling boil for 1-minute to kill pathogenic bacteria, viruses and protozoa. Boil the water for long enough time to purify and sufficiently kill the microorganisms.
How long should you microwave water? Microwave water until it reaches the desired temperature. Be aware that microwaves heat water unevenly; therefore you must heat in 1-minute intervals and stir frequently.
How long do you have to microwave water to boil it?
1 minute to boil 1 cup of water in a 1000-watt microwave when heated on high power. 2 minutes for 2 cups of water and so forth. Heat in 1-minute intervals and stir often.
How long does it take to boil water in a 700-watt microwave? 2½ to 3 minutes to boil water in a 700-watt microwave. 3 to 4 minutes if the microwave wattage is 500-600 watts.
For better control over temperature, it’s best to use a pot to boil water on the stovetop.
Although the health effects of microwaves continue to be debatable, studies remain inconclusive and there is no evidence that confirms any cancer-causing effects of microwaves. As a result, indications dictate that microwaves are a safe method of food preparation [2].
Precautions to follow when boiling water in a microwave
Even though it’s convenient and easy, there are definitely precautions you should take when boiling water in the microwave.
Is it dangerous to heat water in a microwave? People have been injured when using a microwave to boil water. Potential hazards include unsafe containers, scalding water, steam vapor, and superheated explosions.
First and foremost, it’s imperative that you use a microwave safe dishware. Do not use plastic or glass unless it is definitely rated safe for microwave use. Noteworthy to mention, but you should never use any metal inside the microwave.
Boiling water can be dangerous, and a spill can result in a really serious burn. To protect your skin from burns, exercise caution and be sure to use hot mitts to remove the boiling water from the microwave.
Steam transfers heat energy at a much faster than contact with ambient temperatures. Therefore, skin should be protected because steam vapor can cause severe burns. Exercise caution around hot water and don’t place your hand above boiling water until it has cooled.
Superheat water is a microwave phenomenon that is caused by vaporized water being trapped underneath layers of cooler water. Microwaves heat unevenly and can quickly resulting in superheated water in the microwave. Recommended precautions are to insert a non-metallic object to break the surface tension, heat in 1-minute durations and stir the water in between each interval.
Be sure to read the manufacture’s instructions and recommendations included in the manual that came with your microwave. Become familiar with the power output of the appliance, settings and appropriate containers that are safe for microwave use.
Follow safety precautions when you boil water in a microwave. Use hot mitts and microwave safe containers to prevent serious burns.
How to safely boil water in the microwave
Boiling water in the microwave is quick and simple. Here are 6 easy steps to follow to boil water safely in the microwave:
- Use a microwave-safe container. Glass or ceramic cup and bowls work best, but you can choose anything labeled as “safe for microwave use.”
- Do not seal or cover the container. While the microwave isin use, the container must remain unsealed.
- Insert a non-metallic object into the container. A wooden chopstick, dowel, popsicle stick or skewer will break the surface tension and prevent the water from superheating.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals. Stir after every 1–minute duration until the water has reached a boil.
- Tap the side of the container to check for superheating. Tapping the side of the cup, bowl or container with a stick or spoon will disturb the surface tension of the water molecules. Once the tension is broken then trapped heat is released.
- Carefully remove the container. Use hot mitts to avoid burns from the heated container or boiling water.
Boiling water in the microwave is easy to do, however there are certain safety precautions to take. Use a microwave safe container, heat uncovered in 1-minute intervals and carefully stir the water before using.
Things to know before boiling water in the microwave
Boiling water in the microwave is convenient and safe, however there are certain precautions worth mentioning.
Microwaves distribute heat unevenly, resulting in pockets of superheated water below areas with cooler temperatures. Therefore, the method is best used for small amounts of water.
Boiling water on the stovetop is the recommended approach when working with larger quantities.
According to recent studies, zero negative health effects are connected to boiling water in a microwave. As a result, the next time you need to boil water in small quantities, feel free to use the microwave because it is completely safe when adequate precautions are taken.
