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.
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.
The most common cause for a microwave oven not working at all is a blown main fuse.
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.
On average, microwaves last 7-8 years.
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.
If the power cord isn't the issue, it could be that the breaker was tripped. This is the likely explanation if your microwave shuts down while it's in use. Try resetting the breaker or replacing the fuse to restore power. If you're still having no luck, the problem could be with an internal fuse.
Microwave Fuse Replacement
Replacing a microwave fuse costs between $10 and $15. This repair issue is often a simple fix, but if you plan on using an appliance repair person, your costs could increase to $50 to $100.
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.
As the best microwave overall, we chose the Panasonic Microwave Oven; it combines a 1,200-watt motor with a compact exterior. If you're looking to save money and space, the Commercial Chef Countertop Microwave is the best budget microwave: simple but effective, much like microwave cooking itself.
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. The instructions that come with each microwave oven indicate the kinds of containers to use.
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.
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.
Reset the microwave.
To reset the microwave, unplug it or power cycle at the circuit breaker for 60 seconds.
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.
Food isn't cooking properly.
If your microwave is heating food much slower than normal, or not at all, something is off. If you think your microwave's power is starting to wane, give it a test. Cook one cup of water on high power for two minutes. If it's not piping hot, it may be time to consider a new microwave.
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.
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 national average cost to repair a microwave ranges from $100 to $200. Most homeowners spend about $150 to repair or replace the magnetron in a countertop microwave unit. At the low end, you may spend as little as $50 for a minor problem like replacing a fuse.
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.
"Microwaves alter the taste of food, take up a lot of room and make nearly everything mushy," she says. Nicole Robina, a publicist, agrees with Shortt that conventional ovens are the way to go. "Everything tastes better when you heat it up in the oven," she says. "It's worth the extra time."
Take Your Microwave to an Electronic Waste Recycling Center
If your local recycling center doesn't accept appliances, you can check with an environmental conservation group such as GreenCitizen, which accepts mail-ins. Send your microwave to them and they will recycle it for you for a small fee.
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.