Microwave Has Power But Still Not Working. How To Fix It?

If your microwave isn’t working, there are several solutions to fixing the problem. In some instances, it’s as simple as resetting the GFCI fuse.

In other cases, it might be issues with the turntable, a door switch, or blown fuses.

Depending on the problem you see when you push the power button and what the microwave does, will determine the right solution for repairing it.

The Microwave isn’t turning on as usual

If your microwave fails to turn on as usual it might be because the GFCI switch needs to be reset.

First check to make sure the power cord is plugged in, and check to see if the GFCI is tripped.

A final solution will be to check the circuit breaker box to see if it has tripped.

In the event none of these solutions resolve the problem, there might be additional problems which are causing your microwave to stop functioning.

Blown Thermal Fuse

Once you’ve determined that the GFCI outlet isn’t what has caused a lack of power to your microwave, one issue might be a blown fuse in the microwave.

Some things which indicate this is the case include

• The microwave powers on but won’t work
• A thermal fuse stops electric current flows to your microwave as a safety setting. It helps prevent the microwave from overheating. Using a multimeter, you can check to see if the fuse lacks continuity
• If there’s no continuity, it means the fuse needs to be replaced.

Slammed Door Causing Malfunctions

A second common reason your microwave malfunctions is that you have slammed the door shut, and now it won’t turn on.

This is an indication that there’s a blown fuse in the microwave. Check the fuse using a multimeter to check for continuity; if it’s blown, you’ll have to replace the fuse.

Buzzing but not Heating

A power diode failure is what you’re probably experiencing in these situations.

If the microwave is buzzing or humming, but it isn’t heating, the power diode might need to be replaced.

The power diode’s primary responsibility is to pass heat and block flow in opposing directions; if it’s not functioning the microwave can’t produce heat necessary to operate.

The high voltage capacitor might also have failed if you’re hearing a buzzing sound but not heat in the microwave.

This part is responsible for storing heat in your microwave; if it’s not functioning, your microwave can’t produce enough heat to operate properly.

A final problem with this microwave malfunction is the magnetron isn’t functioning.

The magnetron is a high-powered oscillator and is the main component of your microwave. If it isn’t oscillating properly, your microwave might buzz, but won’t produce heat.

This part should be checked cautiously, and may require a professional technician if it needs to be replaced.

Door Latch Assembly Failure

An issue with the door latch assembly might cause a malfunction.

Door latches are made of plastic or hooks which engage and disengage when you open and close the microwave door.

If the springs are damaged, the door won’t hinge and won’t close properly, which will prevent the microwave from operating.

To replace the door latch, you’ll disconnect your microwave and remove the inside door panel. Inspect the latch.

If it is damaged, you will have to replace it. Once replaced, reconnect your microwave and it should turn on/off like normal.

Faulty Microwave Door Switch

If the door switch isn’t functioning, your microwave won’t operate.

The door switch is a small switch that closes when you shut the microwave door. Like other fuses and wires, the door switch can also go bad over time.

To determine if this is the problem, you can use a multimeter to check if the switch is operable. If not, you’ll have to replace it in order for your microwave to function.

Microwave Turns on and Immediately Turns Off

Several problems can be causing your microwave to turn on, and off after a few seconds of operation. Some of these include

• A faulty door switch
• The main control board is failing
• Touchpad isn’t functioning (this isn’t common)
• The high voltage transformer has failed
• The thermoprotector may have tripped (safety to prevent overheating)
• The thermostat may be defective

Using a multimeter, you can check fuses, door switches, and other parts with electric currents, to check for circuity.

If any are faulty, you’ll need to replace them. If there’s a control board issue, this requires replacement of the control board.

Turntable Malfunctioning

If the turntable isn’t spinning, four parts can be causing this issue which are

• Drive bushing coupler
• Turntable guide
• Carousel cooking tray
• Carousel tray motor

The drive bushing coupler is a plastic piece that sits at the base of the microwave.

Check to see it isn’t broken or cracked; if it is, replacing this should resolve the problem.

The turntable guide is the round guide which sits below the turntable.

Check to see it’s properly aligned and adjust if needed. If it is broken, you’ll need to replace this part.

The carousel cooking tray should sit perfectly on top of the coupler and turntable guide. If it’s misaligned, this will result in the turntable not spinning.

If all parts are properly positioned above, the turntable carousel motor might have burnt out. You can use a multimeter to check it, and if it’s blown, it will need to be replaced.

Sparks are Flying Inside the Microwave

With this problem, a utensil or piece of metal might be inside the microwave.

This can prevent it from working or shutting off entirely. If this is the case, wait several minutes and let the microwave cool down.

Open the door, remove the utensil/metal, and give it a few more minutes.

Try powering on the microwave once again to see if this resolves the problem.

Splattered food, especially grease or oil, can also cause your microwave to spark. Clean the inside to prevent this from happening.

If the above issues aren’t causing sparks, it might be a faulty part in the microwave.

If the power is concentrating to one area in your microwave, it’s likely an issue with the stirrer.

You might also check the high voltage diode with an ohm, to determine if it has to be replaced.

When to Call a Technician

If these resolutions fail, it might be time to call a technician.

Additionally, if there is complex wiring, electrical work, or other possible dangers, and moving pieces you simply don’t know how to work with, you might choose to call a repair tech as well.

It’s the safest way to resolve the problem, and they’ll troubleshoot your microwave to prevent further problems in the future.

If all else fails, or if your microwave is older than your 20-year old child, it might be time to upgrade to a new one.

So, consider the appliance’s age as well, if it simply keeps faltering on you. It might be time for a new one!