The average life of a microwave is considered to be 8 years. This means at some point, you will need to replace it. In some cases, a small repair can be a cost-efficient option compared to replacement. You have to examine and identify the signs to determine if your microwave needs a replacement.
Loud, unexplained noises coming from the microwave are also indicators. Watch the microwave during use. If it shakes, vibrates excessively or you see flashes of light or sparks inside, it is failing. Smoke can also be a sign of a dangerously failing microwave.
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, yet 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 snacks and leftovers or to defrost meals.
The most common cause for a microwave oven not working at all is a blown main fuse.
Our survey results suggest that you should consider repairing the broken microwave if it's still under warranty or if it's 5 years old or less, but you'll definitely want to replace it if it's more than 5 years old.
It may be a damaged power cord, a bad fuse, or a malfunctioning circuit board – all of which are issues with the microwave itself. This microwave failure may also be from a natural cause. Have there been any power surges or storms near you? That can cook the wiring in your appliance.
Typically, magnetron tubes wear out and need replacing for approximately every 2,000 to 8,000 hours of operation. Due to their varying lifespan, which mostly depends on use, we offer brand new magnetrons and rebuilt tubes. Magnetron tubes are critical components in your microwave system.
Plate Not Turning
Probably the most common issue of any microwave is when the plate doesn't turn. The turning plate helps cook and reheat your food evenly, so it's a major headache when it's not working. Usually, the problem could be from something obstructing the spinning assembly.
The most likely cause is that the diode, which increases the voltage to the magnetron, has burned out. If this is the case, then the magnetron can't receive enough power to generate microwaves. These can usually be replaced for a low cost.
On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.
Yes, microwaves lose effectiveness with time, and the best way to identify this is by following the cooking time.
You can test if your microwave is heating properly by heating a cup of water in a microwave-safe dish for about 30 seconds. Carefully test the water to see if it has heated. If it isn't hot, repeat the process. If it still isn't hot after a few attempts, it is not heating properly.
One of the most common issues with a malfunctioning Magnetron is the lack of heating. If your microwave is running but not producing heat, it could be due to a faulty Magnetron, burned-out filament, or a malfunctioning high-voltage diode.
Common microwave problems that can be fixed include a faulty door switch, blown fuse, or malfunctioning turntable. Other issues include uneven heating due to a damaged magnetron or burnt-out diode. Check for stuck buttons or a broken fan.
Over-the-range microwaves are built into the cabinetry and bolted to a wall, so replacing one that conks out is no simple chore. To avoid replacing yours more than about once every 10 years—which is how long most manufacturers tell us they should last—you'll want to take care of it.
Reasons: Control panel issues: A malfunctioning control panel can prevent the microwave from responding to your inputs. Fuse problems: Blown fuses can interrupt the power supply to the microwave. Power cord damage: A damaged or disconnected power cord can prevent the microwave from receiving power.
If the inner case is damaged, rusted, with holes, or not making a perfect seal with door, radiation can leak. This is dangerous to humans. Also, if the damage is severe, the magnetron gets very hot and fails. Or in rare cases, the power supply may catch fire.
These are safety red flags, and fixing them might not be worth the hassle — or the risk. Faulty Magnetron: The magnetron is the part that heats your food. If it goes bad, the cost to replace it can be almost as much as buying a new microwave.
If you're not sure if your microwave has been damaged, you can test it by putting a microwave-safe container with water inside and then running it for a minute. If the water isn't hot, the microwave has been damaged. If the microwave still heats, it hasn't been damaged and can still be used safely.
In short, a malfunctioning capacitor will cause the entire high voltage circuit to stop working. There are two tests you can perform to determine if the microwave capacitor is functioning normally, but because there is some disassembly involved to reach the capacitor for testing, a necessary safety warning is required…
A screaming or screeching sound that's hard to ignore is usually caused by a defective or worn-out magnetron.
If you don't clean your microwave regularly, accumulated grime and food particles can cause performance issues. This buildup can affect how your microwave heats and operates, leading to inefficiency and potential damage. Make sure to wipe down the inside of your microwave frequently to remove any spills or splatters.