In many cases, it may actually be more cost effective to repair a microwave if the issue is minor and the appliance is relatively new. However, if the microwave is over ten years old or has developed several issues, it may be more affordable to purchase a new microwave.
Factors to Consider
Age of the Microwave: Microwaves typically last about 7 to 10 years, so if yours is in the 7-year range or older, repairs might only offer a temporary fix, making replacement the better long-term option.
With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
The average cost to repair a microwave varies based on the issue. Most of the time, repairs are significantly cheaper than a replacement.
According to Consumer Reports, these magical appliances typically last around nine years. That number can vary, depending on how often you use it and the brand. Though microwaves can be repaired, it's often more cost effective just to get a new one and send your old one to be recycled.
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.
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.
A good rule of thumb is that if your appliance is more than ten years old, it may be time to buy a new one. However, if your microwave is newer, repairing it could be a better financial decision.
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.
Microwaves older than 10 years or with faulty doors should be replaced immediately in order to reduce radiation exposure while you cook.
On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.
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.
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.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that people have been electrocuted trying to repair their microwaves. So don't try it. While some microwave problems render them inoperable, not every problem requires an immediate repair.
Many electronic stores will take your old microwaves and electronics for that reason. They will usually recycle the rest for you. Some major retailers, including Best Buy, have electronic waste drop-off boxes on site. You can find your nearest drop-off location online.
Smoke, sparks, and burning smells.
These are signs of a serious and urgent problem. Stop what you're doing, and turn off and unplug the microwave immediately. There's no going back if you see smoke or sparks, or smell something burning. Your microwave is failing, and it's time for a replacement.
It costs an average of about $175 to repair a microwave, with a range of about $50 to $500. Most homeowners will pay $100 to $200, including labor and parts, depending on the brand, model, and broken parts.
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.
Understanding the most common parts that can break in a microwave, such as the magnetron, door switches, turntable, control panel, and high voltage components, can help users identify issues early and seek professional repairs or replacements.
Issues with the door switch, internal fuse, magnetron, diode, high-voltage capacitor, and electronic control board are common causes of microwave malfunctions, requiring repair or replacement by a technician.
To much carbon build up will cause the arcing to return within a very short period of time.. Also, as noted above, an unusually fearsome spark is produced when discharging the capacitor.
Examples: a dented anode jacket, punctured vacuum seals, misaligned filament due to handling by the cathode / filament (stem), operation with incorrect voltages / currents or insufficient cooling (air and water).
A screaming or screeching sound that's hard to ignore is usually caused by a defective or worn-out magnetron.
How to Check a Microwave Oven Magnetron. Remove the microwave's casing and fully disconnect the magnetron. Set a multimeter to the lowest ohms setting and hold the leads against the magentron's prongs. If the resistance displayed is less than 1 ohm, the filament is good and your magnetron is working.