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.
Generally, metal pans or aluminum foil should also not be used in a microwave oven, as the microwaves are reflected off these materials causing the food to cook unevenly and possibly damaging the oven.
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 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.
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.
If the cost of repairing a microwave comes close to or exceeds the price of a new one, it might make more financial sense to replace it. However, if the costs of repairing are relatively low and the microwave isn't too old, it could be worth repairing the microwave.
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.
This is caused by a build-up of steam inside of the food. The steam needs to escape somehow, resulting in an explosion. This usually happens with foods that have a skin or are round.
Microwave radiation leaks are hard to detect because you can't smell or see microwaves. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates radiation-emitting products such as microwave ovens, advises against standing directly in front of or up against the oven while it is operating.
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.
Most microwaves last about 10 years. If you keep it clean, your microwave may last much longer. Of course, the less you use it, the longer it will last too.
Microwave ovens emit radiation that will excite water molecules and if there is no moisture available, other less volatile molecules will absorb the radiation and start to heat. Therefore any material which has dried out can overheat and ignite in a microwave oven.
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, yet even less with heavy use and poor maintenance.
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.
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.
Testing is to be performed by placing a large mug of water in the microwave oven, whilst putting it on maximum power for a minute. The calibrated microwave leakage tester will then be used to scan door seals and the front glass.
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.
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.
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.