A microwave that doesn't heat may also have a broken magnetron . The magnetron is responsible for heat production within the appliance, and a malfunctioning magnetron could blow a fuse, ultimately causing other functions of the microwave to fail. If you choose to test the magnetron yourself, proceed with caution.
How do I know if my microwave fuse is blown?
Are microwaves worth repairing?
If your microwave is relatively new and the repair costs less than replacing it, the fix is worth it . But are microwaves worth repairing if something major is broken? Probably not. Consider getting a replacement appliance for about $100, which should work for 7 to 10 years.
Is it worth replacing a magnetron in a microwave?
No matter how new your microwave or if there's only one problem, if the magnetron is out then you might as well replace the entire appliance. The magnetron is the heart of a microwave that actually makes the micro-waves. Replacing it is about equal to the cost of buying a whole new microwave, sometimes even greater .
How do you fix a microwave magnetron?
Where is microwave fuse located?
Microwaves can stop responding due to software glitches or unintended microwave settings. Press the cancel/reset button to do a soft reset on your microwave . If necessary, perform a hard reset by unplugging your microwave for 30 minutes, then plug it back in.
What happens when a microwave fuse blows?
Thermal fuses will 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.
Can a microwave oven be repaired?
The average cost to repair a microwave is about $150, including labor and parts . While this estimate falls on the lower end of appliance repair costs, take a moment to consider whether you're better off replacing your microwave instead.
How much does a magnetron for a microwave cost?
Microwave Magnetron Replacement Cost
Replacing a microwave magnetron costs $100 to $200 . This includes a part price of $50 to $100 and $50 to $100 for labor. A magnetron is the primary component that produces heat for the appliance.
How long do microwaves usually 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.
How much does a microwave fuse cost?
Microwave Fuse Replacement Cost
Fuse replacements for a microwave cost between $50 and $100 on average. This is one of the cheapest and simplest microwave repair jobs. Many appliances have fuses, and over time, it is natural for fuses to wear out or blow.
What causes a magnetron to fail?
This is caused by the magnetron over heating , some instances this is because of reflected microwave energy. Solution: Replace the magnetron and check why the magnetron has overheated. Burnt or melted antenna cap. Burned Dome (or Antenna) caused by arcing due to reflected microwave energy {back feeding}.
What causes a magnetron to go out in a microwave?
Microwave does not heat
If the microwave is turned on when it is empty , this cause the magnetron to burn out. A burned magnetron has to be replaced as it cannot be repaired. Other probable causes behind this problem are faulty diodes, capacitor burn, defective door switch and transformer failure.
How do I know if my magnetron is working?
Look for an open line reading to see if the magnetron works properly . Read the screen on the multimeter to find your reading. If it says “OL” or “Open Line”, then the magnetron works properly! If you register any other reading, then replace the magnetron.
Can u repair a magnetron?
Given that a replacement magnetron can cost anywhere from $100-250, not even considering labor if it's done by a professional repair tech (which is strongly recommended), it's an expensive repair, and considering that bigger microwave repairs can be dangerous if the unit isn't properly discharged, you'll often spend as ...
How long does a microwave magnetron last?
The average life of a microwave magnetron tube is 2000 hours . It's possible to cook and heat food in a microwave oven for 2,000 hours before the oven loses power.
Are all microwave fuses the same?
Microwaves usually contain several types of fuses for safe operation . A main fuse or line fuse is a fuse that will cut the flow of electricity if too much current passes through it. Conversely, a thermal fuse will prevent electrical flow if the fuse is heated to a specific temperature.
Is there an internal fuse in a microwave oven?
Most microwave fuses look like the one pictured to the left . They are usually an inch or two long. Each end is metallic and the center is either ceramic or glass. To get to the fuse, remove the outer cabinet of the unit, which is usually held in place with a few screws.
How do I know if a fuse has blown?
Remove the fuse from its holder. In some cases you may need a small screwdriver to unscrew the fuse holder cap. Look at the fuse wire. If there is a visible gap in the wire or a dark or metallic smear inside the glass then the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced .
How do I reset my over the range microwave?
Perform a hard reset. Pull the plug out of the wall power supply, and wait a moment. Plug the GE microwave back into the wall power supply to reset any anomalies with the microwave's memory . You will need to reset the time of day if you perform a hard reset.
How do you reset a microwave breaker?
If the breaker that controls your microwave is kicked, you can quickly reset it by clicking it to the ON position . Then you can plug your microwave back into the outlet and check to see if the power has been restored.
