A microwave that won't turn on is often caused by a simple power interruption or a tripped safety switch. Follow this step-by-step troubleshooting checklist to identify and fix the issue.
To reset a microwave that won’t turn on, start with a "hard reset": unplug it (or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker) for 3 to 5 minutes, then reconnect power.
How to repair a microwave that is not heating
A microwave that turns on but fails to heat food or rotate is usually dealing with a failed safety switch, a blown high-voltage fuse, or a bad internal component like a diode or magnetron.
Most microwaves do not have a dedicated "Reset" button. Instead, you can reset the appliance by pressing the Cancel or Stop key, deactivating the Child Lock, or performing a hard reset by unplugging the microwave for a few minutes.
To check if your microwave fuse is blown, safely unplug the appliance, access the fuse holder (usually behind the top grille or back panel), and test the fuse for continuity using a multimeter. If it reads zero ohms, the fuse is good. If there is no reading, it is blown.
The specific button used to reset depends on the device, but it is most commonly the Power button. On many electronics, pressing and holding the power button for 5–10 seconds forces a restart.
The most common microwave failure is not heating, usually caused by a blown high-voltage fuse, a faulty door switch, or a burned-out magnetron. Other widespread issues include dead power (tripped thermal fuse) and uncooperative turntables (broken drive motor).
When your microwave's start button stops responding, it is usually caused by a simple power glitch, an engaged child lock, or an issue with the door latch.
Running a microwave while it is empty may cause damage to the unit. When food is in the oven, it absorbs a large fraction of the output from the microwave transmitter. When the oven is empty none, or almost none of the microwaves are absorbed.
If the Microwave shuts down during a cooking cycle and appears to have no power, check the circuit breaker or fuse in your home that supplies power to the Microwave and make sure it is on. Then, verify the outlet is getting power. You can try plugging something else into the outlet, like a night light, lamp, etcetera.
Whether it is worth fixing a microwave generally depends on its type, age, and the specific problem.
The average lifespan of a microwave is 7 to 10 years, with most models lasting about 8 years. Over-the-range models typically fall on the shorter end (around 7 years), while built-in models and countertop units can occasionally stretch past 10 years if well-maintained.
Unplugging a corded microwave or turning off the breaker for a hard-wired microwave for five to 10 minutes can reset the appliance. Some microwaves have a feature that restores the appliance to factory settings. Test the microwave functions and controls.
If your microwave won't turn on at all, the most common causes are a tripped circuit breaker, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty door switch. Start with the simplest explanation: check your home's electrical panel for a tripped breaker and reset it if needed.
One of the most common microwave issues is when the appliance stops working completely—no sound, no lights on the display. This problem can have several possible causes, such as a power outage, a faulty electrical outlet, a blown internal fuse, or an issue with the control board or thermal cut-off switch.
In most microwaves, the main fuse is located behind the control panel or directly beneath the top vent grille. To access it, you will generally need to unplug the microwave and unscrew the top grill or the outer metal cabinet.
Most microwaves do not have a dedicated "reset" button. Instead, you can usually clear an error or freeze by holding the Cancel or Clear button for 3 to 5 seconds, or by performing a hard reset by unplugging the microwave for 2 to 5 minutes.
Open the switchboard and locate the blown fuse. Look for a blackened wedge or melted wire. The fuse rating (eg. 16A, 20A) is usually stamped on the holder.
5 major signs you need a new microwave oven
Putting a wet paper towel in the microwave creates steam, which keeps your food moist, helps it heat evenly, and prevents it from drying out. It also acts as a splatter guard to keep your microwave clean, and the moisture weighs the towel down so it stays in place.
Yes, Ecap E𝐸. coli is killed in the microwave, but only if it reaches a sufficiently high temperature and stays there long enough. Microwaves do not magically kill bacteria via radiation; they do it by generating thermal heat.
To reset a microwave that won’t turn on, start with a "hard reset": unplug it (or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker) for 3 to 5 minutes, then reconnect power.
Replacing a microwave control board costs between $100 and $500 in total. The exact price depends on whether you opt for a DIY fix or hire a professional, as well as the make and model of your appliance.
Whether a repair is worth it depends on the type of microwave and the age of the unit. Generally, if a countertop microwave breaks, buying a new one is cheaper. However, for expensive over-the-range (OTR) or built-in models, repairs are often cost-effective because of the high installation and replacement costs.