How to Repair a Microwave that Isn’t Getting Hot

Professional appliance repair in Toronto should be your first point of call if you need to repair a microwave isn’t getting hot. It will take a long time before you need appliance repair services for your microwave. For the most part, microwaves have a long lifespan. 

However, due to their regular usage, microwaves may start showing some certain faults from time to time. They can and eventually will break, whether it is due to wear-and-tear, electrical faults or more. 

One popular reason to repair a microwave is that the device not getting hot. If your microwave is not getting hot, it’s practically useless. To make things easier for you, we have decided to put together this short microwave repair guide. In this article, we will explain why your microwave isn’t getting hot and also explore possible DIY solutions. 

Related article: How Much Is The Cost of Microwave Repair In Toronto?

Why Your Microwave Isn’t Getting Hot

Microwave repair for a device that isn’t getting hot is a delicate task. It is important that you first figure out the cause of the problem. Doing this will help you determine the best DIY repair steps to follow. Below are a few reasons why your microwave may stop getting hot.

Power Settings Problem

Having the wrong power settings can stop your microwave from getting hot. Before you panic, ensure that your microwave was not accidentally left on a low power setting. If your microwave is on a low power setting, it means that it won’t get hot.

Line Fuse Problem

One of the main causes of microwaves not heating up is an issue with the line fuse. If the current flowing through the microwave is more than the required amount, then the line fuse will blow. To find out if this is the main cause, you can make use of a multimeter to check for continuity.  

If there is no continuity then you may need to replace it. You will also need to find out the reason why the fuse blew in the first place. However, it is better to contact a professional appliance repair service if you wish to replace the fuse or any other part for that matter.

Power Failure

If your home has recently had a power outage, your microwave’s settings may be interrupted. Your microwave may display “PF” i.e Power Failure or the numbers “8888”, which is a general code that indicates power failure in most microwaves. An easy fix in this situation that does not require much technicality than pressing the “CLEAR” button.

Other reasons why your microwave may not be getting hot include:

  • Magnetron issues 
  • High voltage diode problem 
  • Faults in the main control board 

Microwave Repair Tips for a Device That Isn’t Getting Hot

Before you start DIY appliance repair on your microwave, it is important to wear safety equipment. Make sure to wear rubber gloves and regulation safety glasses. Additionally, if you feel like this task may be too much for you to take on, call in a professional appliance repair service.

Fixing a Magnetron Problem

A magnetron is a component responsible for providing the heat which cooks or warms the food. In cases where the magnetron is faulty or broken, it may lead to the blowing up of the fuse.

  • Step 1: Unplug the microwave from the power source and remove the cabinet. 
  • Step 2: Discharge the high voltage capacitor and run a test on it using a multimeter. While testing the magnetron, ensure to disconnect the attached wires. 
  • Step 3: Attach the leads of the multimeter to the magnetron terminals. 
  • Step 4: Check the continuity result. The result should indicate about two (2) to three (3) ohms of resistance between the terminals as well as the grounded outer case. If this is not the case, remove the magnetron.
  • Step 5: Replace the faulty magnetron with a replacement of the same model.

High Voltage Diode Problem

High voltage diodes help to power the magnetron and are located in the microwave cabinet. During DIY microwave repair efforts, you may find that you need to replace a diode. If this is the case, follow these next steps:

  • Step 1: Unplug the microwave and discharge the high voltage capacitor.  
  • Step 2: Use a multimeter to test the voltage diode. Usually, there is always a low resistance in one direction and high resistance in the other direction. 
  • Step 3: If the results indicate otherwise, then the diode needs to be replaced.
  • Step 4: Replace the faulty diode with a replacement of the same model.

Main Control Board

Due to the potential for electric shock, it is extremely dangerous to replace the electronic components in a microwave by yourself. Additionally, you risk severe complications that may be expensive to fix. It is better to contact a professional appliance repair service in Toronto to replace the control board.

Conclusion

Microwave repair for an appliance that is not getting hot can be done in a few minutes. With the DIY troubleshooting tips above, you can diagnose the fault and conduct adequate repairs. 

In the same vein, this kind of appliance repair is best left to professionals. The task to repair a microwave is complicated and may require a certain level of technical expertise. 

Do you have a microwave that isn’t getting as hot as it should be? Our technicians here at Repair Appliances CA have the skills and technical expertise to troubleshoot your faulty device. More importantly, we will get your microwave working the same day you call us. Contact us today for reliable appliance repair services in Toronto!