December 22, 2025 – A recent incident report details a frightening occurrence where a Whirlpool microwave, model WMC30516HB 0, unexpectedly burst into flames while empty. The incident, which occurred on November 30, 2025, has left the consumer traumatized and highlights the critical importance of appliance safety.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On November 30, 2025, a consumer reported a highly dangerous incident involving their Whirlpool microwave, Model WMC30516HB 0. The user initially placed food in a plastic container to heat it. While washing dishes nearby, a loud, strange noise emanated from the microwave, startling the user’s cat. Upon inspection, after removing the food container, the microwave’s interior appeared normal, with no visible signs of a problem.
Uncertain of the noise’s origin, the consumer decided to test the microwave empty. They closed the door, set it for one minute, and pressed ‘Start’. Immediately upon pressing ‘Start’, the microwave burst into flames, despite containing nothing inside. The consumer noted that there had been strange noises in the past, which they had attributed to the turntable, but now believes these were early indicators of an underlying electrical issue.
The incident was sudden and without warning, causing significant emotional distress. The consumer expressed profound concern that had they not been present, the incident could have escalated into a full house fire. The experience has resulted in trauma and a newfound fear of leaving kitchen appliances, including toasters, unattended.
Safety Concerns
This incident with the Whirlpool microwave model WMC30516HB 0 raises several serious safety concerns:
- Immediate Dangers: The primary and most immediate danger is the risk of fire. An appliance bursting into flames instantly, even when empty, presents a severe hazard that could lead to property damage, severe burns, smoke inhalation injuries, or even fatalities if an individual is too close or attempts to extinguish the fire without proper training or equipment.
- Long-Term Risks: Beyond physical harm, the incident demonstrates significant psychological impact. The consumer reported experiencing deep trauma, fear of using kitchen appliances, and anxiety about leaving them unattended. Such psychological distress can persist long after the event, affecting daily life and peace of mind.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone owning or using this specific microwave model could be at risk. This includes individuals, families, and even commercial establishments using the appliance. The danger is particularly acute if the appliance is used by children, the elderly, or anyone who might not react quickly or understand the immediate hazard of an electrical fire.
- Property Damage Potential: A microwave fire, especially one that ignites so rapidly and intensely, poses an extreme risk of escalating into a full-scale house fire. This could result in the total loss of property, significant structural damage, and the destruction of personal belongings, not to mention the potential danger to neighboring properties in multi-unit dwellings. The incident highlights the potential for widespread devastation if such a defect occurs when a home is unoccupied or residents are asleep.
What Consumers Should Do
Given the severity of this incident, consumers who own a Whirlpool microwave, particularly Model WMC30516HB 0, should take immediate action:
- Immediate Steps: If you own this model or any microwave exhibiting unusual noises, sparking, or signs of malfunction, immediately discontinue use. Unplug the appliance from the wall outlet to mitigate any potential electrical hazard. Do not attempt to repair it yourself.
- How to Check if They Own the Affected Product: Locate the model number on your Whirlpool microwave. It is typically found on a label inside the microwave door, on the back of the unit, or sometimes on the frame around the door. Compare your model number to WMC30516HB 0.
- Prevention Measures: Always supervise appliances while in use, especially those that generate heat. Be vigilant for any unusual sounds, smells, or operational abnormalities. If your microwave makes strange noises, sparks, or heats unevenly, stop using it immediately. Ensure proper ventilation around the appliance.
- Reporting Procedures: If you have experienced a similar incident or believe your product is defective, report it immediately to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. Additionally, contact Whirlpool Corporation directly to inform them of your concerns and incident. Document everything, including photos or videos of the issue, and retain proof of purchase.
Manufacturer’s Response
The manufacturer, Whirlpool Corporation, has indicated a response to this incident report. Specific details of their proposed actions or investigation are not available in this incident report.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.