Cracking the Case of Microwave Malfunctions
A malfunctioning microwave can be extremely frustrating. But understanding what causes a microwave to malfunction can help you take the proper steps to resolve it and get cooking again.
The most common problems arise from issues with the power supply of the microwave. The fuse may blow, a wire might come loose, or the plug may be damaged. A more serious issue could be an internal component such as the magnetron or power diode burning out. Another problem could be electrical issues in your home, such as a lack of power or bad wiring that is causing fluctuations in the power supply.
It is helpful to check other appliances to see if they are having issues with the power supply. If the power supply appears to be operating normally and the microwave is still not functioning properly, then the issue likely lies within the appliance itself. You may need to take a look at the back of the unit and look for signs of burning or discoloration. You may also want to check the fan to make sure it is working properly.
Common symptoms range from the microwave completely failing to turn on to having erratic power output that affects the cooking times. Some more specific quirks include sudden interruptions to the cooking time, unexplainable noises, and sparks.
If you need help troubleshooting the issue, consulting an appliance technician or checking the error codes listed on your appliance may be the most effective way to proceed. Our comprehensive Appliance Error Codes Glossary can help narrow down the issue and guide you in the right directions for fixing it.
Faulty microwaves can be fearsome opponents, but by understanding the potential causes and taking proactive steps to troubleshoot the issues you can be well on your way to victory. Take a dive into our Appliance Error Codes Glossary to aid in your search for resolving your microwave malfunction.