What is the common problems of microwave oven?
Common Microwave Oven Problems
Microwave ovens can develop a range of faults, and many of them show up in recurring patterns. Based on repair guides and consumer surveys, the most frequently reported microwave problems include not heating, turntable not rotating, won’t start or no power, sparking or arcing, control-panel or button failures, door-latch or interlock problems, loud buzzing or noises, and uneven heating.
Understanding the signs and the parts involved can help you decide whether to repair or replace your microwave.
Microwave Not Heating
Microwave not heating is one of the most common problems. The most popular reason behind this issue is magnetron failure. A magnetron uses high voltage to produce microwave frequency to cook food, and running the microwave when it is empty can cause the magnetron to burn out.
Richards AC Repair lists “Microwave Not Heating” as the most common complaint, with a faulty magnetron, high-voltage diode, capacitor, or transformer among the possible causes. Sears Home Services also lists the magnetron, diode, high-voltage capacitor, internal fuse, door switch, and electronic control board as common causes of microwave malfunctions.
If your microwave isn’t heating food, it’s likely that the magnetron in your appliance is broken. A burned-out magnetron can’t be repaired; it has to be replaced. Other issues that can lead to food not being heated include a broken diode or a faulty door switch.
Cooker Repair’s comparison table lists “No Heat” at 40 percent.
Why Is My Microwave Making Loud Noises?
A loud humming noise from your microwave is often a sign of a faulty or worn-out diode. The diode is responsible for converting AC to DC to supply the magnetron with power. If a defective diode is to blame for your microwave making noise, the microwave won’t generate heat.
Solution Appliance says a loud buzzing sound can be caused by a failing power diode or high-voltage capacitor. In Consumer Reports‘ member survey, 6 percent of over-the-range microwaves had a problem with noise.
Turntable Not Rotating
Iowa Appliance Center says a plate that doesn’t turn is probably the most common issue they see. Cooker Repair lists “Turntable Stop” at 20 percent of faults in its comparison table.
Won’t Start or No Power
Cooker Repair lists “Won’t Start” at 15 percent in its fault table. Power-related causes of a microwave that won’t power up can include a blown fuse, a faulty power cord, or a tripped circuit breaker.
Microwaves usually contain several types of fuses for safe operation. A main fuse, or line fuse, cuts the flow of electricity if too much current passes through it. Conversely, a thermal fuse prevents electrical flow if the fuse is heated to a specific temperature.
Thermal fuses blow to prevent the microwave from overheating and potentially causing a fire. A fuse will also blow if there is a surge in electricity, which can cause a short circuit.
Sparking or Arcing
Cooker Repair lists “Sparking” at 10 percent in its fault table. eSpares identifies exposed metal, carbonized food, and cavity damage as common causes of sparking.
Control Panel and Button Failures
Consumer Reports reports that 6 percent of over-the-range microwaves had broken control panels. Richards AC Repair also lists a control panel not responding as a frequent issue.
Door Latch and Interlock Problems
Repair FAQ says failed door interlocks account for the majority of microwave oven problems, perhaps as high as 75 percent.
Uneven Heating
Consumer Reports says owners most commonly reported uneven heating, along with noise and broken control panels. In its survey, 4 percent of over-the-range microwaves had food heated unevenly.
What Happens When a Magnetron Fails?
As the name suggests, your magnetron can’t do much without its fully functioning magnets. If these become cracked or damaged, the strength of the magnetic field will be affected, which reduces the heating performance of your microwave oven.
The magnetron can malfunction even in the best microwave ovens, but as long as you follow safety guidelines carefully, it’s a fairly easy fix.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Microwave Diode?
A microwave diode replacement costs around $5 to $25 for the part and around $50 to $100 for the labor. The diode is the semiconductor in microwaves that creates, receives, and switches microwave signals.
Safety Note
Appliance City advises that if it is safe to do so, turn off the microwave oven and unplug it immediately. If there is a fire burning inside the unit, do not open the door to try to extinguish it.
