10 Most Common Microwave Repair Problems

 

Looking for solutions of microwave repair problems? Check out the top 10 most common microwave repair problems and their microwave troubleshooting tips to get your microwave up and running in no time.

 

10 Most Common Microwave Repair Problems and Solutions

Microwave ovens have become an necessary appliance in up-to-date kitchens. They are efficient, convenient, and save a lot of time in cooking and reheating food. However, just like any other electrical appliance, microwaves can experience problems and break down. If you own an appliance, it's important to be aware of some of the most common microwave repair problems that can arise and how to troubleshoot them.

 

In this article, we will try to learn the 10 most common microwave repair problems that you may encounter. From a microwave that won't turn on, to one that runs but doesn't heat, to a microwave that sparks when in use, we'll cover the various issues that can affect your microwave's performance.

 

By understanding these common problems, you'll be better equipped to diagnose any issues that may arise with your microwave and know what steps to take to address them. We'll provide tips and tricks for microwave troubleshooting each problem and suggest possible solutions.

 

Whether you're a homeowner or a renter, having a broken microwave can be a real inconvenience. However, with the right knowledge and a little effort, you can save time and money by fixing the problem. So, let's get started and explore the most common microwave repair problems!

 

 

1.   Microwave Plate Doesn't Rotate

·       Motor issue

·       Coupler problem

·       Roller guide fault

·       Electrical malfunction

·       Drive bushing failure

 

Explanation

One of the most convenient features of a microwave is the rotating plate, which helps to ensure even cooking and heating. However, if your microwave plate stops rotating, it can be a frustrating issue to deal with.

 

Here are some common reasons why your microwave plate may not be rotating:

 

Motor issue: The rotating plate is powered by a small motor located underneath the plate. If this motor fails, the plate will stop rotating.

 

Coupler problem: The coupler is a small plastic piece that connects the motor to the roller guide. If the coupler is damaged or worn, the plate won't rotate.

 

Roller guide fault: The roller guide is a small plastic ring that sits on the turntable support and allows the plate to rotate smoothly. If the roller guide is damaged or broken, the plate won't rotate.

 

Electrical malfunction: If there's an issue with the electrical components that power the rotating plate, such as a blown fuse or a faulty switch, the plate may stop rotating.

 

Drive bushing failure: The drive bushing is a small plastic piece that connects the motor to the turntable support. If the drive bushing is damaged or worn, the plate won't rotate.

 

In order to fix the issue, you may need to replace one or more of these components.

 

If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it's best to contact a professional microwave repair service to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

 

 

2.   Microwave Runs But Doesn't Heat

·       Magnetron Failure

·       Diode Burnout

·       Capacitor Issues

·       Door Switch Problems

 

Explanation

Magnetron Failure: The magnetron is the component responsible for producing the microwaves that heat the food. If it fails, the microwave will run but won't heat.

 

Diode Burnout: The diode is responsible for directing the electrical current to the magnetron. If it burns out, the magnetron won't receive power, and the microwave won't heat.

 

Capacitor Issues: The capacitor stores electrical energy that the microwave uses to power the magnetron. If it's faulty, the microwave won't heat.

 

Door Switch Problems: The microwave has a safety mechanism that prevents it from running if the door is open. If the door switch is faulty, it may prevent the microwave from heating, even if it appears to be running normally.

 

It can be frustrating and confusing when your microwave runs but doesn't heat. However, understanding the potential issues can help you diagnose and fix the problem. Suppose you suspect a magnetron failure, diode burnout, or capacitor issue. In that case, it's best to seek the help of a professional technician, as these components involve high voltages and can be dangerous to handle without proper training.

 

On the other hand, if you suspect a door switch problem, it may be a relatively simple fix that you can do yourself. You can check the door switch by opening the microwave door and seeing if the light turns off. If it doesn't, the door switch may need to be replaced.

 

In summary, when your microwave runs but doesn't heat, it's likely due to a faulty magnetron, diode, capacitor, or door switch. By understanding these potential issues, you can take the appropriate steps to fix the problem and get your microwave back up and running.

 

 

3.   Microwave Won't Turn On

·       Power cord

·       Door switch

·       Main control board

 

Explanation:

Power cord: If the microwave won't turn on, the first thing to check is the power cord. Ensure that it's properly plugged into the electrical outlet and that the outlet is functioning properly.

 

Door switch: A faulty door switch is another common issue that can prevent a microwave from turning on. The door switch detects when the door is closed and enables the microwave to turn on. If the switch is malfunctioning, the microwave won't start.

 

Main control board: The central control board is the "brain" of the microwave, responsible for controlling all of its functions. If the control board is faulty, it may not be able to send the proper signals to start the microwave.

 

If your microwave won't turn on, start by checking the power cord and outlet. If those are functioning properly, move on to checking the door switch. You can test the switch using a multimeter to determine if it's faulty. The main control board may be the issue if the door switch is functioning properly. In this case, it's best to seek the assistance of a professional to repair or replace the control board.

 

 

4.   Microwave Sparks When In Use

·       Metal inside

·       Burnt food

 

Explanation:

Metal inside: If there is any metal object inside the microwave while it's running, it can cause sparks. This is because microwaves work by creating electromagnetic waves that interact with the metal, causing the sparks. To prevent this, always remove any metal objects before using the microwave.

 

Burnt food: When food is overcooked or burnt, it can cause sparks in the microwave. This is because the moisture inside the food is gone, leaving only dry, flammable material behind. To avoid this, make sure to monitor your food carefully while it's cooking and stop the microwave as soon as the food is cooked.

 

If your microwave is sparking, turn it off immediately and unplug it. Sparks can cause damage to your microwave, as well as create a fire hazard. Once the microwave is cool, inspect it for any signs of damage, such as burn marks or melted plastic. If you find any damage, do not use the microwave; contact a professional repair service.

 

To prevent sparking in the future, make sure to always remove any metal objects before using the microwave. Additionally, monitor your food carefully while it's cooking and stop the microwave as soon as it is cooked. By taking these precautions, you can keep your microwave in good working order and avoid any potential hazards.

 

 

5.   Microwave Buttons Don't Respond

·       Stuck buttons

·       Damaged control panel

 

Microwave buttons not responding can be a frustrating problem to encounter. When the buttons on your microwave control panel don't respond, it can make it difficult or even impossible to use your microwave to cook or reheat food. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including stuck buttons and a damaged control panel.

 

Stuck buttons are a common problem with microwave control panels. This can happen when food or liquids get spilled on the panel and seep into the buttons. When this happens, the buttons can become stuck and unresponsive. Additionally, if the microwave has been used heavily over time, the buttons may become worn and less responsive.

 

A damaged control panel is another potential cause of microwave buttons not responding. This can happen if the microwave is dropped or bumped or has a power surge. When the control panel is damaged, it can prevent the buttons from functioning properly.

 

For microwave troubleshooting this problem, start by cleaning the control panel with a damp cloth. If food or liquid is stuck in the buttons, this may be enough to free them up and restore their responsiveness.

 

If the buttons are still stuck, try using a toothpick or a small tool to gently pry them up and clean out any debris.

 

If cleaning the buttons doesn't work, the control panel may be damaged and need to be replaced. This is a more complex repair and should only be attempted by a professional technician. It's important to note that if your microwave is still under warranty, attempting to repair it yourself may void the warranty.

 

In conclusion, if your microwave buttons aren't responding, the problem may be caused by stuck buttons or a damaged control panel. With a little bit of microwave troubleshooting, you may be able to fix the issue yourself. However, if the problem persists, it's best to call in a professional technician to avoid causing further damage.

 

 

6.   Microwave Makes Strange Noises

·       Buzzing sound

·       Whirring noise

·       Rattling noise

·       Grinding noise

·       Humming sound

 

Microwave ovens can make strange noises, which can indicate various issues that need to be addressed. Here are some of the leading issues that can cause strange noises in a microwave:

 

Buzzing sound: This could be due to a faulty transformer or a defective magnetron. Both of these parts are responsible for producing the microwaves that cook your food. If they're not working properly, they can emit a buzzing sound.

 

Whirring noise: A whirring noise could be due to a faulty fan motor. The fan helps to cool down the microwave's components; if it's not working properly, it can produce a whirring noise.

 

Rattling noise: A rattling noise could be due to loose parts inside the microwave, such as the turntable or the fan. It could also be due to a defective motor.

 

Grinding noise: A grinding noise could be due to a worn-out motor or a faulty turntable. If the turntable is not rotating properly, it can create a grinding noise.

 

Humming sound: A humming sound could be due to a defective diode or a faulty capacitor. These parts help control the electricity flow in the microwave, and if they're not working properly, they can emit a humming sound.

 

If your microwave makes strange noises, it's important to address the issue immediately. Ignoring the problem could cause further damage to your microwave and may even make it unsafe to use. For microwave troubleshooting the issue, you should first try to identify the type of noise your microwave makes. Once you've identified the noise, you can then try to diagnose the underlying issue and take the appropriate steps to fix it.

 

 

7.   Microwave Door Won't Open or Close

·       Stuck latch

·       Broken spring

·       Damaged hinge

 

It can be frustrating and even dangerous when the microwave door won't open or close. The microwave won't function if the door doesn't close properly and can also cause harm if the door suddenly opens while in use. In this section, we'll explore the main issues that can cause a microwave door to malfunction and solutions for microwave  troubleshooting and fix them.

 

Stuck latch: The latch is the part of the door that secures it shut. If the latch gets stuck, it can prevent the door from opening or closing. Unplug the microwave and take and utilize a screwdriver to remove the casing around the door to fix this issue. Gently push or pull the latch to try to release it. If the latch is broken, it will need to be replaced.

 

Broken spring: The spring is what allows the door to open and close smoothly. If the spring is broken, the door may not stay closed or may not open at all. Unplug the microwave and remove the casing around the door to fix this issue. Locate the spring and check if it's broken or disconnected. If so, replace the spring with a new one.

 

Damaged hinge: The hinge is what attaches the door to the microwave and allows it to pivot open and closed. The door may not open or close properly if the hinge is damaged. Unplug the microwave and remove the casing around the door to fix this issue. Check the hinge for any signs of damage or wear and replace it if necessary.

 

In conclusion, a microwave door that won't open or close can be caused by a stuck latch, a broken spring, or a damaged hinge. You can ensure that your appliance is functioning properly and safely by microwave troubleshooting and fixing these issues.

 

 

8.   Microwave Display Doesn't Work Main issues:

·       Power supply

·       Display board

·       Control board

·       Fuse

 

If the display on your microwave doesn't work, it can be frustrating as it's difficult to know what settings you're using. The display shows the cooking time, power level, and other settings, so it's essential to the appliance. Here are few key issues that can cause the display to stop working:

 

Power supply: The first thing to check is the power supply. If your microwave is not getting enough power, the display may not work. Check the power cord, the outlet, and the circuit breaker to make sure everything is working correctly.

 

Display board: If the power supply is not the issue, then the display board may be faulty. Over time, the display board can become damaged or worn out, causing it to stop working. In this case, you'll need to replace the display board.

 

Control board: The control board is accountable for sending signals to the display board to show the cooking time, power level, and other settings. If the control board is faulty, it may not be sending the correct signals to the display board, causing it to stop working.

 

Fuse: A blown fuse can cause the microwave display to stop working. Check the fuse in the microwave and replace it if necessary.

 

In summary, if the display on your microwave isn't working, start by checking the power supply and fuse. If those are fine, then it's likely an issue with the display or control board, and you'll need to replace them to restore the display's functionality.

 

 

9.   Microwave Overheats or Shuts Off Unexpectedly

·       Main issues:

·       Overheating

·       Unexpected Shutdown

 

Explanation:

Microwaves that overheat or shut off unexpectedly can be a frustrating problem for anyone to deal with. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

 

Blocked Air Vents: If the air vents on your microwave are blocked, it can cause the microwave to overheat and shut off unexpectedly. A grease, food particles, or other debris buildup can trigger this.

 

Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat in your microwave is designed to regulate the temperature and prevent overheating. If it is faulty, it may cause the microwave to overheat or shut off unexpectedly.

 

Overuse: Using your microwave for extended periods of time can cause it to overheat and shut off. This can be especially true for older microwaves that are not designed to handle long periods of use.

 

Electrical Problems: Electrical issues such as a faulty power cord or outlet can cause the microwave to overheat or shut off unexpectedly.

 

If your microwave is overheating or shutting off unexpectedly, there are some steps you can start microwave troubleshooting the issue. First, make sure the air vents are clear of any blockages. You may also want to try using your microwave for shorter periods and allowing it to cool down between uses.

 

If the problem persists, having a professional technician look at your microwave may be a good idea. They can help identify any underlying issues and suggest the best course of action to fix the problem.

 

 

10.     Microwave Light is Out

·       Broken bulb

·       Faulty socket

·       Loose wiring

·       Blown fuse

 

If you've noticed that the light inside your microwave is out, there are a few possible reasons for this. The most common causes include a broken bulb, faulty socket, loose wiring, or a blown fuse.

 

The first thing you should check is the bulb itself. If the bulb is burnt out, you'll need to replace it. Make sure you purchase the correct bulb for your microwave model. Typically, you can find this information in your microwave's user manual or the manufacturer's website.

 

If the bulb looks fine, the socket is next to check. The socket may be faulty or corroded, preventing the bulb from making proper contact. You can try cleaning the socket with a small brush, cotton swab, and rubbing alcohol. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the socket.

 

Another possible cause of a microwave light that won't turn on is loose wiring. Check the wiring connections to make sure they are secure and not damaged. If you see any frayed or damaged wires, you'll need to replace them.

 

Finally, a blown fuse may be the culprit. This can happen if there is a power surge or the microwave overloads. To check if the fuse is blown, you'll need to remove the microwave's outer cover and locate the fuse. If the fuse is damaged, you will need to interchange it with a new one of the same rating.

 

In summary, if your microwave light is out, start by checking the bulb, socket, wiring, and fuse. With a little bit of microwave troubleshooting, you can often fix the problem yourself and avoid the hassle and expense of calling a repair technician.

 

 

Final Thoughts: Common Microwave Repair Problems Solutions

Microwave ovens are essential in many households, but they can experience issues just like any other electrical appliance. This article discussed the 10 most common microwave repair problems, ranging from a microwave that won't turn on to one that overheats or shuts off unexpectedly.

 

We explored the various factors that can cause these issues, including blocked air vents, faulty thermostats, overuse, and electrical problems. Additionally, we provided some microwave troubleshooting tips and possible solutions for each problem.

 

If you are undergoing any of these issues with your microwave, it's important to take action to address them. This may involve cleaning the air vents, using the microwave for shorter periods, or seeking a professional technician's help.

 

By being aware of these common microwave repair problems and taking the necessary steps to address them, you can extend the life of your microwave and save yourself time and money in the long run.

 

In conclusion, we hope this article by The DIY Experts has provided useful information and tips for microwave troubleshooting and repairing. Remember, safety always comes first when working with electrical appliances, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.