When there is a power outage, it is important to follow the proper procedure for protecting your microwave. The power surge that happens when the power comes back on can damage the magnetron tube in the microwave . The magnetron tube is the device in the microwave that provides heat.
Can a power surge damage a microwave?
Household appliances such as microwaves sometimes fall victim to power surges. These brief but powerful spikes can cause irreparable damage to your home equipment. Like other appliances, your microwave is vulnerable to damage during these surges.
What causes a microwave to suddenly stop working?
The most common cause for a microwave oven not working at all is a blown main fuse . The microwave main fuse will cut the flow of electricity if too much current passes through it. ... There can also be thermal fuses, cavity fuses, and thermoprotectors which will interrupt the electrical flow if the microwave overheats.
Can sudden power outage damage electrical appliances?
Electrical appliances will, of course, stop working if the power goes out. This is inconvenient but not necessarily harmful. When electrical power comes back after an outage, it goes through a surge condition. This “tidal wave” of electricity can damage appliances left turned on.
What causes microwaves to fail?
Microwave not heating is one of the most common problems with microwave. Most popular reason behind this issue is magnetron failure . A magnetron uses high voltage to produce microwave frequency to cook food. If the microwave is turned on when it is empty, this cause the magnetron to burn out.
A soft reset is simply turning off the microwave oven to cancel or erase the program you've input in the microwave. To do this, you will just simply press on the Off/Clear button . Pressing Off/Clear button and holding it for about 3 seconds will also resolve the Control Locked feature of the microwave.
How do you know if your microwave fuse is blown?
It's easy to tell if a glass fuse is blown; it will show scorch marks, and the filament will be melted . To check a ceramic fuse, use an ohmmeter or continuity tester. With an ohmmeter or multimeter, you should see a reading close to zero ohms if the fuse is intact, or infinite if it's blown.
What are the signs of a power surge?
- The device's clock or lights are flashing.
- The device is off or does not work.
- There is an acrid, burnt odor around the device or power source.
- A surge protector or power strip may require resetting.
Are power outages bad for electronics?
Damage to your valuable electronics can occur when the power comes back on. The sudden surge of electricity could destroy the inner mechanisms of computers and other electronic equipment. ... When the power goes down , unplug your computer, other electronic devices and appliances.
Can a power surge damage a washing machine?
Your valued appliances and devices – TVs, computers, phones, microwaves, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators – are all susceptible to surge damage . A large surge can immediately render an appliance useless by frying circuits and melting components.
What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?
- Smoke, sparks, and burning smells. These are signs of a serious and urgent problem. ...
- Food isn't cooking properly. ...
- It makes horrible sounds as it cooks. ...
- The door doesn't seal properly. ...
- The keypad doesn't function. ...
- It's over 10 years old.
Is it worth fixing a microwave?
Some experts say it's not worth repairing a malfunctioning countertop microwave because the average cost of repairs runs about $70–$100 not including parts—about half the cost of a good-quality new one.
How long should a microwave last?
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use , and 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 up snacks and leftovers, or to defrost meals.
What is a hard reset on a microwave?
A hard reset is necessary. Take the plug out of the wall power supply. The microwave's memory can be reset by plugging the microwave back into the wall power supply . If you perform a hard reset, you'll need to change the time of day.
Is there a fuse in a microwave?
Fuses are located in many places inside the microwave , including the top, side, and behind the vent grille. Using the wiring diagram can help you locate the appropriate fuse. Once you have located the fuse, remove any necessary wires and fasteners to free it from the microwave.
How do you fix a microwave that won't turn on?
Start by checking the wall plug to ensure the microwave is plugged into power. Next, check the door switch and the door latch assembly. The microwave won't start if the appliance believes the door is open. Next, check the two fuses, the thermal fuse, and the ceramic fuse, to see if they need to be replaced.
