Fellow Jacksonville blogger Doyle wrote a great post on the death of her microwave. Her history with hers reminded me a lot of how we wound up with the one we still have here.
After Kaitie was born in 1986, Kelly took a few weeks off for maternity leave. Once she returned to work, I took a month’s leave from my Navy duties to stay home with our baby. We had a lot of fun, as I dressed her up, put little barrettes in her long hair and took her out and about.
One night, Kel was commenting on the hassle of cooking for three, especially after a full day of work, and this gave me an idea. The next day, I dressed up the baby and drove over to some appliance stores in nearby Orange Park to price microwave ovens. In spite of being together over seven years, the two of us never had a need for a microwave, since cooking simple stuff for two people didn’t require one. But with a baby, and our jobs (I worked the night shift at my duty station, so Kel would be alone with Kaitie most evenings), having something to make heating up our dinner, a bottle or baby food easier seemed like a good idea.
We wandered from store to store, looking at a vast array of devices. I carried Kaitie in one of those knapsack-like devices which allowed me to keep her right against my chest while keeping my hands free. In the last store we visited, I wandered up and down a row of microwaves, trying to compare the features and prices to see which one was the best buy. At one point, I looked at my infant daughter and whispered “Honey, why don’t you help Daddy out and pick one of these for me? I can’t make up my mind.”
I had no sooner said this than her little hand reached out from the pouch and the slapped the top of a microwave next to which we were standing. I stopped, looked at the features and the price, and decided that was the one. Who knew? Maybe this kid was pretty smart after eight weeks of life.
That was over eighteen years ago. That microwave (a Quasar, by the way) still sits in our kitchen, waiting to serve our every fast cooking and reheating need. Over the years, the only thing I ever had to do was replace a blown fuse. In addition to it’s cooking duties, the old Quasar also doubles as a handy storage device for bread and rolls.
I know I’ll feel like Doyle and her family if my microwave ever departs from this earth. In this day of throwaway consumables, some things should last forever, or close to it.
And may that Quasar last forever! I have just returned from picking up my 15 1/5 year-old Quasar. The reason for the service? Overheating caused by a buildup of grease and dust on the air vents on the back. I have been told by 2 service people that this is the primary cause of microwave failure. So take a lesson from my experience–keep it clean! My serviceman told me that my oven will probably outlast the new ones on the market now.
BOUGHT IN 1980 THE BULB BURNED OUT THIS YEAR. OTHERWISE WORKING FINE
I have a Quasar that was in my home when I purchased it. It sit above my stove and is a micro-convection with the vent hood underneath. I estimate it is about 17 years old. I am trying to find some parts for it. Any ideas?
I have a Quasar that was in my home when I purchased it. It sit above my stove and is a micro-convection with the vent hood underneath. I estimate it is about 17 years old. I am trying to find some parts for it. Any ideas?
try http://www.repairclinic.com they have quasar parts and the site is very user-friendly
We bought our Quasar Microwave Oven around 1983. It still works like the first day we used it. We would not even consider buying a new one.
We have a Quasar bought in 1989 and it was still going strong until this week when it decided to stop altogether while cooking baked potatoes. We tried testing the fuse but it seems OK. I hate to give up on it as it has cooked like a gem for so many years. I think its worth fixing if not too much! Any suggestions?
I want my Quasar back!!!!!!!!!! The light and time works but it no longer heats. I have had my oven for 21 years. I don’t want a different kind. I don’t know how to fix. HELP!!!!!!!!!!! When I call repair shops, I get “buy a new one” “it isn’t worth getting fix.” “I can’t get the parts.” Any suggestions???????????
I am still using a model MQ3340WW microwave oven that I bought in December of 1982. Thought the bulb burnt out a couple of years ago but found it was just loose. This microwave has been thru 3 kids and is going thru 12 grandkids. I’m widowed so if I fix me something to eat it has to be microwavable most of the time. Which I could buy me a car that would last 23 years.
My Quasar was purchased early May ’85. Our kitchen was so tiny, there was no stove. I “baked” my daughter’s first birthday cake in the darn thing! (Not a bad cake, either). Everything still works like day one, knock on wood. If it goes, I’ll be heartbroken.
I have a Quasar microwaven as well, and it just broke down on us after using it for about 14 years. I dont plan on throwing it away, so i was wondering how much it would be to fix this microwave. i just bought a panasonic microwave, and the pizza i heated up in the new microwave doesnt taste the same as how it used to with my old quasar.. Is there a reason for this?
I have a Quasar microwave as well, and it just broke down on us after using it for about 14 years. I dont plan on throwing it away, so i was wondering how much it would be to fix this microwave. i just bought a panasonic microwave, and the pizza i heated up in the new microwave doesnt taste the same as how it used to with my old quasar.. Is there a reason for this?
We have our Quasar microvave in 1986. It works nicely, exept for the probe, which apparently needs some sensor, not available in Canada. Any suggestions?
Also, with the oven we bought pots, made from light brown plastic. They are truly the best for this purpose, in comparison to anything else on the market. Unfortunately after all these years they are worn out. We would like to replace them, but they are not available in Canada. Again, any suggestions?
quasar microwaves last forever, my parents bought on before i was born and before they were marriedand the first thing that went wrong with it was this year, the light bulb burnt out over 20 years after it was bought, does anyone know where to get another so when i move out i can get one or are they still in canada?
I bought my Quasar over 20 years ago….it still sits on my counter in my kitchen. It was a large one that can cook a turkey with a sensor. Everything still works and it looks great inside and out. I have used it for everything. The only thing I had to fix was a broken glass tray which I ordered over the internet.
I purchased my Quasar microwave in May of 1978. I have replaced the light bulb and and that’s it. This is an example of how appliances should be built. We have purchased several microwaves for our business, each one lasting about a year or 2. I love this microwave!!
I have a 20-year-old Quasar microwave that still works (600 watts, 1.0 cu ft). The only problem is its weight – too heavy for me to move around, which I plan on doing again in a year or two. Would anyone like it? If you are in the Detroit area, you are welcome to it. As long as you can carry about 50 lbs.
I just moved into a house with a Quasar Superwave from 1986. It works, but I can’t figure out how to set the clock. Any ideas?
It took myself some time to figure out how to set the clock on Quasar (1985) that I have recently inhereted. Thought, you could give it a shot and see if it works.
There are “10 sec” and “1 sec” buttons that happened to control hrs and mins functions respectively. Keep pushing “10 sec” to set hrs and “1 sec” for mins and then press “clock”.
Mine works fantastically, never expected such a performance from a microwave. Although do not have a manual and hence cannot figure out temperature controled cooking function. If anyone could help with a hint or a manual for Quasar (model MQ6695YW), I would highly appreciate it.
I was given my Quasar in 1979 (MQ6600) 700 watts and it works great! Is there any danger in using such an old microwave?
Sue,
There are repair companies that can come out and test the unit for leakage. They say this isn’t a bad idea for older units. In the meantime, son’t let anyone stand directly in front of it while it’s running, just to be safe. Especially if they have a pacemaker or internal defribulator.
Thank you for letting me know how to set the clock. Works great! Now I would really like to get a manual…..anyone know where to find a manual for the convection oven…..I don’t have a clue what to do and am very leary of trying anything. Thanks!!!
Just got a quasar MQ7785YW. I do not have a manual so I have no clue how it works. It is one of those Insta-Matic cooking obes with humidity sensor.
Can any one direct me on how to use it.
Similarly, we had two children 15 mos. apart. Instead of me going back to work (I worked for a small drs. office and had been in bed with complications for a good part of the preganancy so he ended up replacing me – mutual decision:) hubby started working two jobs. To make life easier we splurged and bought a microwave before the birth of our second child in 1984.
I don’t look forward to ever having to replace it. I haven’t seen another one I even slightly like as much!
I remember feeling so guilty about spending the money on that Quasar Microwave/Convection oven. But oh did we get our use out of it. Then and now. We’ve gone through so many other home applianes and yet, that Quasar, keeps on going. It’s got a couple little quirks – occaisionally when you hit start the timer starts to count down but the microwave doesn’t start cooking until you tap it lightly on the top of the oven just above the display.
The microwave is now 22 years old – I dare say older than anything else electrical we own – and I’m about to go cook a turkey in it. I hope I haven’t jinxed it
My Aunt just bought a used camper that has a Quasar Superwave Microwave in it, she needs to find an owners manual to know how it works, any idea on where to find one???
I have been very happy with my Quasar microwave oven model # MQS1108H.
I want to purchase a new one. In order to do so I want the same power output as on the one I have.
Please let me know the power output that I have on on my current model.
Thank You.
My Quasar microwave (YMQ7775YW) just quit today after 20 years of hard labour! Nothing
– no light – nothing. It seemed a bit overheated. I cleaned the air vent at the back
and waited a while. The bulb looked ok. I don’t think I’ve ever changed it. After it
cooled I plugged it back in and — ta da – I’m back in business. Even the bulb works.
Shame on me for not cleaning the vent at the back. Likely once a year should do the trick.
Jack
My Quasar, manufactured in 1990, still works and, from what I am reading will keep on working. I just do not know the watts. I have looked every where and nothing. I went a parts web site and even though I could find 113 different parts for it there was still no info on the power. I even called the parts people and they could not find the info either. Model @ MSQ0808H, any ideas?
I acquired a used Quaser microwave (for free and they said it worked, it has power), where might I find a manual/online instruction guide? I think perhaps some of the buttons on the control panel aren’t working or I’m not pushing them in the right sequence.
We inherited a Quasar convection/microwave too. From sometime in the 1990′s. But were are the manuals found????
I’m trying to help someone start their Quasar insta-matic without a manual. Thanks to the above reply we can now set the clock. Could anyone tell me the sequence to make the thing cook? Tried several combinations and nothing happens.
For the people who are looking for manuals for operating Quasar Superwave Microwave/Convection Ovens, you might want to try PartStore.com. I just received on in the mail for about $7 for a model MQ8875YW from the PartStore.com website. It is very detailed and perfect for learning to operate the older model oven that was made in 1986 or 1987. By the way, these ovens are made by Panasonic. That helped me to find the part.
I need help–Please email me if you have an answer for me.
We bought a house with a above the stove quasar microwave oven model # MQ09974xw it worked great
until the power went off, I can’t get the power button to work. The timmer buttons work, the light works, and the fan works.
Thank you, for your help
Karen
My Quasar #MQ9994XW was manufactured in October 1986. Upon starting to warm
a bowl with spagetti sauce it seemed to arc and then cut off. I punched in
the info again, it started and then cut off. Now it is dead.
Because it is 20 years old and we have not had any problems with it I went to
buy another Quasar and they are not being made anymore. Now I am faced with
deciding what brand, color, etc.
I have gotten a headache in digesting all the info received….now am ready
to maybe try to have the Quasar repaired…it is above the range model. This
also happened after a thunder storm (power flickered but didn’t go offf) even
though I didn’t associate the storm with damage to microwave thought I would
mention it.
Would appreciate any help and/suggestions.
Thank you very much.
Jackie
but thought I would mention it.
Johanna, Mar 28, 2005: Thanks to you and some others for the suggestion to clean the back vents!! My 1984 Quasar quit yesterday. So I googled quasar microwave ovens and got to this simple website. You saved me money, and more importantly the aggravating thought of buying a new microwave oven with a turntable. I dislike turntables. They limit the shape and size of cooking dishes you can use, and cleaning the oven inside is not as quick and easy. I’d much rather rotate my dish halfway through for even cooking, than buy new microwaveable dishes that can go ’round and ’round. As a food professional (who uses my Quasar regularly in my business), I’ve been told by colleagues in the appliance industry that consumers want turntables. Really? They just don’t know any different.
By the way, any microwave oven (especially those without turntables) will stop working temporarily if you cook for a long time, at one time. The bottom overheats. Simply leave the door ajar between cooking jobs, and/or sit blue ice on the bottom for 10-15 minutes until it cools down.
I have a quasar microwave, Model #YMQ7775YW mfg’d in 1986.
It just stopped working now (Oct 31, 2006).
I would like to get it repaired if possible.
Where can I find a list of repair centers?
I have a Quasar microwave, Model #MQ8877BW manufactured in 1988 which I
have had since then. Tonight I was using it and it ran for a few minutes
and then stopped, even though the timer kept going. Kept trying it over
and over and each time it would run a little bit and then shut off.
Any suggestions on what might be the problem? Would rather fix it if
doable. Thanks much……
I am looking for an instruction manual for my Quasar Convection/microwave oven, MG8877BW, just taken out of storage. Help and thanks! Joan
I have a Quasar model M03340WW made in 1984 thats still going strong. I got it second hand in about 1990. The light bulb inside burned out a while back but other than that it’s fine. I am probably making a mistake as I just got a new candy apple red one for my freshly redecorated kitchen and am donating this one to a local thrift store. I had bought new ones in the past and they died and I ended up draging this old beast back in from the garage. I dont think it can die.
http://www.thatpoliticalblog.com
I was looking for an address for Quasar to let them know how great the microwave (#6600) I purchased in Nov. of 1979 has performed when I found this website. Over the last 27 years we have used it every day with 4 growing children and one grandchild at home for most of those years. I have only needed to replace a light bulb. With the abuse that teenagers and young adults have given it I am amazed at its durability. Since I haven’t needed to replace it I’m not even aware if Quasar out of Franklin Park, Illinois still exists. All I see is a company out of the UK. I’m sure they don’t make them like they used to!
Our Quasar was manufactured in July 1989 (Model MQ9968W). It is still limping along, but we don’t want to give it up. The great thing about this is that it slants back from the bottom front – about 5 inches. This enables this 5’10″ lady to still see the top of the stove. If we push the 10 minute, 1 minute or reheat button the oven starts automaticallly. Can’t program for any other time or for defrost. Looking to get it repaired.
When I got the new micro my son commented that we would probably have to start putting the food inside of the micro now instead of just setting it on top like with the old one. Im assuming this was a snarky comment about older micros possibly leaking radiation.
http://www.thatpoliticalblog.com
Hello – I found this site last week and was thrilled to see the number of people who still have their microwaves. Mine was a wedding gift from my grandmother in 1988. I’ve since been married (and divorced) a second time, but the one thing I have insisted on keeping is that old Quasar Superwave!
Here’s a website for the manual: http://www.partstore.com/ModelDetail.aspx?PageState=1&MfgID=150&ModelID=102363
BTW, the convection part of my oven went out Wednesday. Any ideas what may be wrong? I’m certainly going to look into getting it fixed, but thought I’d ask if anyone else has experienced the convection oven and broiler not making it to the desired temperature (actually, not over 250 degrees).
What a great site..I have a brown microwave that’s still working which I purchased in 1989.. Everything works except I think it’s taking a little longer to do the work. I did notice that there are some rust areas inside the oven but it’s still working without sparking.. I tried to find the serial number but it’s not anywhere but in looking for it I realized the vent sorely needed to be cleared which I did.. So thanks to whomever for mentioning that. duh.
I have no way of determining what the cubic footage is nor can I determine what the wattage is.. If the thing ever goes caput I’d like to replace it with the same specs..Anybody know?
Have a Quasar MQ7765YW purchased in Dec. 1986. It works great but the temperature probe has failed. Does anyone want to sell/give one ? I have the owner’s manual and would be glad to share it. Also have the Quasar cook book that came with the oven in case anyone wants info from it.
I have a Quasqar Microwave oven MQ8850TW that I bought in 1984 that I love. It is a convection. conventional and micro oven. I received the sad news I need a new control panel, and have looked at the parts store with no luck. Although I did not have the part number. Any ideas?
Our Quasar (Model MQ9998W) over the counter microwave died yesterday after 15 years of loyal service. I checked whatever I could but could not find problem. I suspect it might be the control panel or the fuse? Where would the fuse be if there is one?
To Wanda Grubb, June 15th, 2006: thanks for the website (partstore.com). I, too, have a aging Quasar Superwave microwave/convection oven from Oct. 1989, and it still is doing a good job. A little slower, but good enough. The convection part of the manual is what I need. Plan to call partstore on 1/2/07.
We just purchased a home that was built in 1980. It has a built-in “instamatic” Quasar microwave oven, and I would assume that it is original with the home. There is no instruction manual. I can’t figure out how to set the time of day clock. Plus, somehow, I caused the “memory” light to come on, and I can’t get it to turn off. Help? Please!
HELP: My QUASAR MODEL YMQ6606AW (Canadian Model) just died making rice. As soon as the rice finished cooking the unit took its last breath… The unit was bought in 1986 and have never had a problem with it. I had a quick look inside it and the fuse appears to be OK. Does anyone know of a good repair shop in the Toronto/Mississauga area.