What To Do If Your Microwave Is Not Heating

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Getting Your Appliances Fixed

After struggling for years to deal with my damaged appliances, I knew that I had to make a few changes. I started focusing on recording the issues so that repair professionals could identify and resolve problems faster, but it didn't seem to make much of a difference. I realized that I needed to buy a new appliance suite for my home, and after I did, it was really incredible to see how much nicer everything worked. I also purchased an appliance services package, so that I wouldn't have to maintain the equipment on my own. This blog is all about getting your appliances fixed the right way the first time.

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What To Do If Your Microwave Is Not Heating

20 March 2018
 Categories: , Blog


You have a microwave to heat up foods or create quick meals for your family. It's an appliance that is supposed to simplify your life, but what happens when your microwave suddenly stops working, or maybe it's working but not heating your food at all? You're left without this appliance, which could make things a little more hectic for you. If you have a bit of time to troubleshoot the appliance yourself, there's a few things you can check and make the repair yourself. If you don't feel comfortable working on this appliance, call a professional appliance repair technician for help so you can get back to business as usual. 

Read on for troubleshooting tips to help make the repair yourself.

Check The Voltage

If your microwave is not turning on at all, check first to see if it is plugged in (it could have been unplugged). If it is plugged in, check the outlet for voltage to be sure it isn't the outlet. Then test the plug for voltage. You can repair your outlet, or replace the plug on your appliance if you need to.

If your microwave has power but isn't heating, it could be the voltage diode which sends power to the magnetron. If the diode has low voltage on both ends, it could be faulty and need to be replaced. Test the diode using a multi-meter, and if it is bad, replace it with a new part. This part can be found at your local parts store or on-line.

If the diode wasn't the problem, it could be the magnetron itself. With the appliance unplugged and the diode unplugged, test the magnetron with the multi-meter, and take a look at the wiring attached to the magnetron to be sure they are in good shape. If you don't have continuity, the magnetron may need to be replaced. 

Inspect The Door Switch

If your appliance has power but isn't heating, you can check the door switch. Open up the door to the microwave and inspect the latches on the inside. If anything is inside these latches, clean it out and try your microwave again. If something is blocking the latches, it could cause the door switch to work improperly. If this isn't the problem, unplug the appliance, then open the cabinet to your microwave and find the door switch. Test it for continuity with the multi-meter. If you don't have continuity, this part should be replaced. The door switch can block the motors and other parts of your appliance from running properly as a safety precaution. 

Your microwave is a convenience to help make cooking a little easier on you. If your appliance is in need of a repair and you aren't sure how to repair it, call one of the appliance repair services in your area.