Troubleshooting tips for common microwave problems
Here are suggestions for determining what’s wrong with your Whirlpool microwave.
No power. Make sure that your microwave is plugged into a working outlet.
If the outlet is dead, reset the house circuit breaker for the outlet.
If the outlet has power, a bad power cord connection, blown fuse or faulty electronic control board may be preventing the microwave from powering up.
Won’t move air. When the micro-hood fan runs but doesn’t move air, check the grease filters. Clean grease buildup off the grease filters. If air movement doesn’t improve, check the vent damper on the outside of your home to make sure it opens fully.
If the fan motor runs but doesn’t spin the fan blade, it’s likely that you have to replace the fan motor.
Turntable won’t move. Check the turntable setting; many microwaves let you turn off the turntable rotation. If the turntable rotation setting is on, a failed turntable motor could be preventing the turntable from moving. Replace the turntable motor if it doesn’t run.
Common Whirlpool microwave parts that need replacement
A service technician must replace internal microwave parts, because high-voltage capacitors inside the microwave can retain a lethal electrical charge even when the microwave is unplugged.
Most microwave door parts—including the handle—should be installed by a service technician because the repair involves removing and reinstalling door shielding components. The technician must check the door for microwave leaks before you can safely use the microwave after a microwave door repair.
- Door switch. The door switch is the device that is tripped when you close the microwave door. It lets the other microwave control board know that the door has been shut and that the microwave can be used.
- Thermal fuse. The thermal fuse shuts off the microwave if an internal electrical short circuit occurs. When the thermal fuse blows, the microwave won’t work at all.
- Cooling fan. The cooling fan keeps the microwave electronic control board and other components from overheating. If this part breaks, the thermal cut out switch often trips.
- Door handle. The door handle can crack or break over time. Have a service technician replace the broken door handle so you can open and close the microwave door smoothly.
- Magnetron. The magnetron that provides the heat to cook your food. The microwave may run but won’t heat food if the magnetron breaks.
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