Are Kenmore microwaves good?
Yes. Kenmore microwaves are a good choice for most homes because they typically deliver solid everyday performance and practical features for the price. For the Kenmore 72180593401 microwave/hood combo, following the cooking, cleaning, and venting guidance in the 72180593401 owner's manual helps you get the best long-term results.
What “good” means for a microwave/hood combo
A microwave/hood combo has to do two jobs: heat food evenly and move smoke and steam with the exhaust fan. In real-world use, “good” usually comes down to:
- Consistent heating on common tasks (reheat, timed cook, defrost)
- Reliable door operation and safety interlocks
- Effective venting (fan performance and correct filter setup)
- Easy cleaning and routine maintenance
- Reasonable repairability when wear parts fail
How to keep a Kenmore microwave performing well
The manual for this model includes sections on testing cookware, operating safety precautions, using the exhaust fan, and caring for filters and lights. We recommend these habits:
- Use microwave-safe cookware and test questionable dishes before regular use
- Keep the door sealing surfaces clean so the door closes squarely
- Clean interior splatters often; steam-clean by heating a cup of water to loosen soil
- Maintain the venting system; clean the grease filter regularly and replace the charcoal filter if you recirculate
- Replace cooktop/oven lights promptly so you can see the cooking surface clearly
Common “not heating” causes (and what they usually point to)
If a Kenmore microwave runs but does not heat, the issue is often in the high-voltage heating circuit. Here are common parts involved:
| Symptom | Common cause | Example part for 72180593401 |
|---|---|---|
| Runs, no heat | Failed magnetron | Microwave magnetron 2B71165R |
| Runs, no heat or weak heat | Failed high-voltage diode | Microwave high-voltage diode 6021W3B001V |
| Hums, no heat, may blow fuse | Failed high-voltage capacitor | Microwave high-voltage capacitor 0CZZW1H004B |
Why it matters
A “good” microwave is one that stays safe, heats predictably, and vents properly. Routine care (filters, cleaning, correct cookware) prevents performance complaints that can look like bigger failures.
Last updated: February 2026
How big is a Kenmore microwave model 72180593401 in inches?
For Kenmore microwave/hood combo model 72180593401, the overall exterior dimensions are 29-15/16 inches wide, 16-7/16 inches high, and 15-3/8 inches deep (about 29.94" W x 16.44" H x 15.38" D). These measurements come from the installation specifications in the 72180593401 installation guide.
Dimensions at a glance
| Measurement | Fractional inches | Decimal (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 29-15/16" | 29.94" |
| Height | 16-7/16" | 16.44" |
| Depth | 15-3/8" | 15.38" |
What these measurements include (and what to double-check)
These are the microwave’s overall cabinet dimensions used for planning an over-the-range installation.
- Width is the full left-to-right cabinet width.
- Height is the full top-to-bottom cabinet height.
- Depth is the cabinet depth front-to-back.
- Installation clearances, cabinet cutouts, and venting setup can change the space you need.
- If you are measuring for a replacement, confirm your cabinet opening and the mounting/vent layout in the 72180593401 installation guide.
Why it matters
Getting the exact width, height, and depth for model 72180593401 helps prevent fit issues with upper cabinets, backsplash clearance, and duct alignment (especially when switching between recirculating and outside-vented setups).
Last updated: February 2026
Where to find model number on Kenmore microwave?
On Kenmore microwave/hood combo model 72180593401, the model number label is on the oven front and is typically visible when you open the door (on the front frame area). For the exact label location and what it looks like, use the 72180593401 installation guide.
Common places to check on this style of Kenmore microwave
We see the model and serial label in one of these spots most often:
- On the front frame of the microwave (visible with the door open)
- Along the upper side of the cavity front (inside the opening)
- On the inside edge near the door latch area
- Occasionally on the back panel (less common for over-the-range units)
What you should write down (and why)
Record both the model and serial number so we can match the correct Kenmore parts list, wiring diagram references, and installation hardware.
| Item to record | Example format | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 72180593401 | Ensures exact-fit parts (filters, switches, bulbs) |
| Serial number | Letters and numbers | Helps confirm production run details |
Quick tips to find it fast
- Open the door and look at the front frame first.
- Use a flashlight and check the upper front edge of the cavity.
- Wipe grease and dust off the label so the digits are readable.
- Take a photo before ordering parts.
Why it matters
Kenmore microwave/hood combos often have similar-looking doors and control panels across multiple models; the full model number is what prevents ordering the wrong grease filter, charcoal filter, or door switch.
Last updated: February 2026





