Consider a replacement if you have a basic model that can cost as low as $60. On the other hand, an expensive model with special features or a mounted microwave might be worth repairing. High-end microwave models can run from $500 to $1,000, so repairing these devices is often cheaper than replacing them.
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, and even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat up snacks and leftovers, or to defrost meals.
What is the most common cause of microwave failure?
The most common cause of microwave failure is its magnetron. The magnetron is what produces the microwaves that cook your food, and it’s also the part that is most likely to burn out. Symptoms of a faulty or burned-out magnetron include a microwave that doesn’t heat food properly or doesn’t work.
That’s because a microwave can hold an electrical charge of thousands of volts in its capacitors for hours or even days after it has been unplugged. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that people have been electrocuted trying to repair their microwaves. So don’t try it.
What are the most common microwave repair problems?
Microwave Plate Won’t Turn.
Microwave Won’t Turn On.
Microwave Door Not Closing Properly.
Microwave Door Stuck Closed.
Microwave Doesn’t Shut Off.
Microwave Not Heating.
Microwave Making Noise.
Microwave Touchpad Does Not Respond.
What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?
Smoke, sparks, and burning smells.
Food isn’t cooking properly.
It makes horrible sounds as it cooks.
The door doesn’t seal properly.
The keypad doesn’t function.
It’s over 10 years old.
Is a 14 year old microwave worth repairing?
As a general rule, you should consider a replacement if: The microwave is more than 10 years old. You’ll pay at least half the cost of replacement for repairs. You can’t find replacement parts that fit the brand and model.
What causes a microwave to suddenly stop working?
The most common cause of a microwave not working is that the main fuse has blown. The fuse will often blow because of a power fluctuation or a defective door switch. It can also blow because another part, like the magnetron or capacitor, is defective.
Can you fix a microwave that doesn’t heat?
If your microwave isn’t heating food, it’s likely that the magnetron in your appliance is broken. Unfortunately, a burned-out magnetron can’t be repaired, it has to be replaced. Other issues that can lead to food not being heated, includes a broken diode or a faulty door switch.
Why is my microwave not heating food but runs?
A broken magnetron is the most common reason that your microwave is running but not heating your food. The magnetron is an essential part of a microwave which is responsible for creating the microwaves needed to heat your food.
What are the symptoms of a bad magnetron in a microwave?
The most common cause of microwave failure is its magnetron. The magnetron is what produces the microwaves that cook your food, and it’s also the part that is most likely to burn out. Symptoms of a faulty or burned-out magnetron include a microwave that doesn’t heat food properly or doesn’t work.
Check to see that it’s plugged in, then check your electrical panel box to see if to see if a circuit breaker switch has flipped or if a fuse has blown. The microwave door may not be completely shut, or the door switch may not be working correctly.
Why would a microwave short circuit?
Simply put, the microwave puts out more amps to operate than the electrical circuit is designed to handle. Electrical circuits are rated to handle certain amounts of amps, and the microwave is exceeding that amount, causing the circuit breaker to trip.
Which microwaves last the longest?
Microwaves from Breville, Daewoo, Hamilton Beach, Proctor Silex, and Sunbeam stood out as the most reliable brands; all five earned an Excellent rating.
What is the best time of year to buy a microwave?
The best time to buy appliances is during a holiday or holiday weekend sale, during the off-season, at the end of the month, or just before or after the manufacturer releases a new model. Shopping at these strategic times can save you hundreds of dollars.
What does a bad magnetron sound like?
Bad microwave magnetrons can make various noises, and the noise is often very loud. Usually, faulty magnetrons make a high-pitched screaming or screeching sound. A magnetron may also make a loud buzzing or humming noise, depending on the issue.
Is there a reset button on a microwave?
Microwaves can stop responding due to software glitches or unintended microwave settings. Press the cancel/reset button to do a soft reset on your microwave. If necessary, perform a hard reset by unplugging your microwave for 30 minutes, then plug it back in.
How hard is it to repair a microwave?
Microwaves are a fickle appliance when it comes to repairing. It is not so much that microwaves are difficult to repair as issues can range from relatively simple to somewhat complex just like any other appliance. However, what makes them such a capricious target of repair is the cost.
Is it worth replacing a microwave magnetron?
Smaller components like a fuse or door interlock switch are usually worth replacing, however. The cost of replacing a magnetron is usually as much or even more than the cost of buying a new microwave, which makes it an impractical option instead of replacing the whole oven, most of the time.
How can I tell if my microwave is leaking radiation?
Call the phone inside the microwave: If you hear a ring, your microwave is leaking radiation, assuming the settings on your phone are correct. It’s highly unlikely that your leaking microwave is a danger to your health. All microwaves are FDA approved and emit tiny amounts of radiation.
What does a bad microwave fuse look like?
It’s easy to tell if a glass fuse is blown; it will show scorch marks, and the filament will be melted. To check a ceramic fuse, use an ohmmeter or continuity tester. With an ohmmeter or multimeter, you should see a reading close to zero ohms if the fuse is intact, or infinite if it’s blown.
Can you use 20 year old microwave?
If your microwave works, keep using it and keep it clean. Three things could go wrong, but they are all rare – especially for a 20-year-old microwave. The door or seal on the door could break and microwaves would leak into your kitchen.
What happens when a microwave gets old?
Anantheswaran explains that the magnetron, the electrical element that converts electrical energy into microwave energy, will not maintain the same power levels over time. “If a new microwave oven boils a cup of water in one minute, after five or 10 years it may take 90 seconds,” Anantheswaran says.
Why is my microwave not working but has power?
The first and main cause of microwave not working but has power is an issue with the line fuse. If more than required current flows through the microwave circuitry then the line fuse will blow.
Where is microwave fuse located?
Fuses are located in many places inside the microwave, including the top, side, and behind the vent grille. Using the wiring diagram can help you locate the appropriate fuse. Once you have located the fuse, remove any necessary wires and fasteners to free it from the microwave.
How much does it cost to repair a microwave that doesn’t heat?
If your microwave isn’t heating, the repair can cost around $50 to $400. It might require a simpler fix like repairing a faulty diode or bad door switch, or a more complex repair like a new magnetron.
Why is my food still cold microwave?
Microwaves are sending radio waves toward your food, rather than heating it from underneath it like gas ovens. And people tend to pile leftovers with the densest part in the middle, which is why the outer edges will heat up, leaving the center cold.
What causes microwave magnetron to fail?
This is caused by the magnetron over heating, some instances this is because of reflected microwave energy. Replace the magnetron and check why the magnetron has overheated. Burnt or melted antenna cap. Burned Dome (or Antenna) caused by arcing due to reflected microwave energy {back feeding}.
