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Microwave is not heating: causes and solutions

Shipra Mangla
slammed door

Image Credits: Mr Right

Microwave is one of the most commonly used electronic appliances these days. Most people, no matter what the location own a microwave for cooking and heating purposes. Microwaves are easy to use, take less space and fulfil several purposes. However due to their constant usage, they may start showing certain faults from time to time. For example, it may stop heating and there could be many reasons or causes for this. If your microwave is not heating, then you can go through the following given probable causes and solutions.

1. High voltage diode problem

The most common reason for microwave not heating could be problem with high voltage diode.  High voltage diode helps to power the magnetron and is located in the cabinet.  To check whether this is really the issue and to solve it, you need to unplug the microwave and then discharge the high voltage capacitor.  Use a multi meter in order to test the diode. There must be low resistance in one direction and high in the other.  If not then the diode may need to be replaced. However if the diode is fine then the issue may be related to the high voltage circuit.

Some of Diodes available online:-

  1. GE WB27X10930 Microwave Diode

  2. Universal Microwave Diode Compatible for GE WB27X10597 Whirlpool W10492276 and Others 2 PCS

2. Problem with the door switch

Another possible cause when microwave is not heating is an issue with the door switch.  The door switch is also known as the interlock switch and it can be accessed by removing the cabinet.  For this first unplug the microwave and then test using a multi meter. Depress the actuator button and check the switches. If you find no continuity at this point then you may need to replace the switch.  Also when testing this, you must ensure that the door hooks as this triggers door switch are working correctly.

Here are some of the recommended microwave door switches:

  1. LONYE SZM-V16-FD-63 Microwave Oven Door Micro Switch Replacement for LG GE Starion Microwave RE1(Normally Open)

  2. LONYE W10727360 & W10269458 & W10269460 Microwave Switch Replacement for Whirlpool Microwave SZM-V16-FC-61 SZM-V16-FC-62 SZM-V16-FC-63

  3. KW3A Microwave Oven Door Switch 16A 125/250V Door Interloc(Normally Open & 3 Insert Foot)

  4. Microwave Door Switch SZM-V16-FA-63 by Podoy Compatible with LG GE Starion WB24X829 3B73362F PS3522738 SZM-V16-FD-63 AP2024337

3. Problem with the magnetron

If your microwave is not heating, then the problem could also be with the magnetron. Magnetron is an important part of the microwave and is responsible for providing the heat which cooks the food.  In case the magnetron is broken then this may lead to blowing up of the fuse which could further result in other components failing.  To check the magnetron, unplug the microwave and then remove the cabinet. After this, discharge the high voltage capacitor and test. While testing the magnetron, disconnect the attached wires and attach the leads of the multi meter to the terminals of the magnetron. The continuity that you get should be about 2-3 ohms of resistance between the terminals as well as the grounded outer case.  If this is normal then the problem could be something else.

Some commonly used Magnetrons available online:-

  1. GE Microwave Oven Magnetron and Diode Kit OM75P
  2. LG Electronics 6324W1A001H Microwave Oven Magnetro
  3. BlueCatELE 2M246 Microwave Magnetron Tube 
  4. Supplying Demand SD0259 Microwave Magnetron Compatible AP5183463 & Fits 0M75 
  5. Generic Microwave Magnetron Tube WB27X10516 OM75P(31) Air Cooling Compatible for GE Samsung 

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Now that you know the possible causes of microwave not heating, you must contact a technician to get the problem resolved or the parts replaced. There are many technicians or professionals out there who are experienced with repairing microwaves and one can be contacted by reaching out to Mr Right in case of microwave not heating.

If you are a DIY person, here are some recommended tools and equipment for you:-

Multi-purpose Multimeters :-

  1. AstroAI Digital Multimeter with Ohm Volt Amp

  2. KAIWEETS Digital Clamp Meter T-RMS 6000 Counts

  3. Klein Tools 69149 Multimeter Test Kit

Multi-purpose Tool Kit:-

  1. DEKOPRO 168 Piece Hand Tool Kit with Plastic Toolbox Storage Case 
  2. Dedeo Cordless Hammer Drill Tool Kit, 60Pcs Household Power Tools Drill Set with 16.8V Lithium Driver Claw Hammer Wrenches Pliers DIY Accessories Tool Kit
  3. BLACK+DECKER 12V MAX Drill & Home Tool Kit, 60-Piece (BDCDD12PK)
  4. WORKPRO 156-Piece Home Repair Tool Set – Daily Use Hand Tool Kit with Tool Bag

Soldering Kits:-

  1. A-BFastiron Electronics Soldering Iron Kit, Welding Tool for electronic repairs and DIY 
  2. Soldering Iron Station Solder Kit – 48W 110V Soldering Tool Set Temp Adjustable Electric Welding for SMD/PCD/DIY
  3. Soldering Station With Additional 5 Tips
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