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Microwave Not Heating Up

What should you check if your microwave does not heat up?

First, disassemble the unit and inspect its inner components to find out what’s wrong. If you do not have the right tools to fix the problem, you may call Appliance Repair Experts, and we will complete the repair in no time at a fair price.

Usually, microwaves have a protective metal cover wrapped around the unit and secured with at least 20 screws. Once the screws are removed, you can remove the metal cover and access all components needed.

ATTENTION: Before manipulating the unit’s internal components, you must first discharge the capacitor. Microwaves use high-voltage capacitors, and if not discharged properly, the shock is enough to kill a grown man. If you are not confident in your skills, call a professional to repair it.

So, here are the things you can check and inspect yourself:

Magnetron

The magnetron is a metal-looking box located on the side of the body of the microwave from the inside. It has only two wire terminals and is usually secured with 4 screws in the unit’s body. Make sure that power goes to the magnetron first. Then remove the wires and connect a multimeter to measure the output voltage.

If power flow is coming when your unit is running, but the magnetron does not make a specific working noise, you have a faulty magnetron. If there is no incoming power, continue doing further diagnostic.

microwave not heating up food

Temperature fuse

Is your microwave not heating up food? In some models, there is a temperature fuse located above or on the side of the magnetron. The fuse ensures that the magnetron does not overheat and burn out. Also, it monitors temperature and cuts off power if the magnetron becomes too hot.

Measure the output resistance of the fuse in Ohms and see if it meets the standards provided by the manufacturer. You may get this information from manuals or technical service notes.

Thermal fuse

There are many thermal fuses inside the microwave, from the filter board to the magnetron. Each thermal fuse is responsible for the proper running of its components, such as the fan, lights, mainboard, tray motor, etc.

Check the wiring diagram and see which fuse is protecting the magnetron. If some part is missing continuity, the fuse is faulty. Replace it.

Door lock switched

Microwaves are very well protected from rays coming from the magnetron. The unit will not start heating unless it knows the door is closed fully. Sometimes due to the door slam, the plastic switches on the side of the door may break and not work properly.

Check every fuse for continuity in the open and closed state. There are usually up to 5 switches for a microwave door. Check every single of them.

Main Board/ Other components

Sometimes microwaves have complex construction and have more than 1 mainboard. Unfortunately, you cannot test the circuit boards in home conditions without proper tools. You may use a wiring diagram to determine which boards or other components may be at fault.

Author: Jacob Dillard
My name is Jacob Dillard, and I am the author of articles at Appliance Repair Expert. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by technology and spent much time reading different books and trying to repair my first CD player. Then, I graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in Applied Science and Engineering. In a year, I got my first job as a technician at an appliance repair company. After years of practice and working with professionals, I decided it was time to share my knowledge and experience here at Appliance Repair Expert. I want to help you understand everything related to appliance repair, maintenance and installation in the simplest way possible. It will be fun, believe me!
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