I have a chip on the paintwork inside my microwave which is exposing the metal so it is not safe to use. Do you know of any special paint available to repair this so I dont have to buy a new microwave?

Emma Whiting, November 2006

You can get high-temperature appliance touch-up paint from nearly every large store (department store, home improvement center, hardware store, appliance parts stores, etc.).

The area needs to be sanded shiny then cleaned with alcohol, acetone, minerals spirits, or another fast-drying cleanner or solvent before applying the touch-up spray.

If the paint is allowed to dry according to the instructions, it shoudl actually last for years.

It's important to wipe up moisture and spills when they occur, too.

William E Miller † MicrowaveDisplay.com, March 2007

Any similar colour touch up paint that you can buy from car spares shops (halfords etc) will suffice. I used to service these for AEG for 11 years so, believe me, this is the only way to prevent the microwave radiation from sparking at the exposed metalwork. Its not a permanent repair, but will enable you to use the microwave quite safely.

Chris, November 2006