New Delhi, Nov. 21 -- Microwaves make life easier, from reheating leftovers to steaming vegetables in minutes. Because they work quietly in the background, many people don't notice small problems until they turn serious. Some of these issues may seem harmless, but ignoring early signs can lead to electrical faults, malfunctioning parts or even fire hazards. If your microwave has been behaving strangely lately, it's probably trying to tell you something.

Below are common warning signs you shouldn't ignore and why quick action matters.

A strong burnt smell is a clear signal that something's wrong. Sometimes it's just food that overheated and charred. But if the smell comes from the appliance body, wiring or vents, switch it off immediatel...