If you’re experiencing slow internet speeds and frustratingly sluggish downloads, the culprit may not be your broadband provider as commonly assumed. Instead, the real issue could be lurking in your own kitchen, according to tech expert Drew English from Charter & Co.

English warns that a common household appliance might be disrupting your internet connection. Microwaves and Wi-Fi can interfere with each other since they both operate on the 2.4GHz radio frequency. While microwaves use these waves to heat food, Wi-Fi routers rely on them to transmit data, leading to slower Wi-Fi speeds.

Despite microwaves being designed to contain their energy, they can still impact Wi-Fi signals, especially lower-quality models that may leak energy. Even premium microwaves can develop seal leaks over time, exacerbating the issue.

To resolve this problem, English suggests moving the router away from the microwave if possible. Alternatively, switching to the 5GHz band on your router can help minimize interference from the microwave. Zen Internet also cautions against placing routers near household appliances like microwaves, as these can disrupt Wi-Fi signals.

Additionally, common items such as baby monitors, cordless phones, and fish tanks should be kept away from routers, as Wi-Fi signals can be affected by them. It’s recommended to restart your router monthly and ensure it is placed in an open area rather than tucked away in a cupboard to optimize broadband performance.