Microwave Oven Faults

Microwave appears to operate normally but does not heat...

There are several possible causes, ranging from the main part (Magnetron at a cost of £60 to £70)* although this is unusual! It ‘s more likely to be just a bad connection or a simple door switch or door catch fault.

Microwave is totally dead...

If there is no power whatsoever to your Microwave, and the display is blank and the oven lamp does not light, it’s worth trying the fuse in the plug first! If this doesn’t cure it, there may be a fault with one of the smaller components (Capacitor at £20 to £30) or (Diode at £10 or so)*

Sparking from within the Microwave...

Check that you haven’t inadvertently placed a metal utensil or container in the Microwave. There may be some grease deposits in one of the corners of the oven cavity, or around the turntable wheels, or around the grill element if you have one.

Sparking from small cover inside Microwave...

This is called the Wave guide Cover, and usually resembles cardboard - this is a piece of special material which covers the hole through which the Microwave radiation enters the oven. If this cover is damaged or missing, it can lead to damage to the Magnetron. The Microwave should not be used until the Wave guide Cover has been replaced (about £6)*

Turntable does not revolve...

Faulty turntable motor (about £18) or turn table drive shaft (about £10)*

Microwave Radiation can be harmful! It is strongly recommended that a Microwave should be checked for Radiation Leakage after any repair or adjustment is carried out to the door, or if the Magnetron fixing is disturbed.

A Routine Service and Radiation Leakage Test is recommended periodically (12 monthly for Domestic, and 6 monthly for Commercial) to ensure the safe operation of your Microwave. All Microwave Ovens leak in time due to the gradual wear of the door catches and hinges. Deterioration of the door seals (even without use) is also a factor.

Customers with a Cardiac Pacemaker or I.C.D are strongly advised to ensure that their Microwave is regularly serviced as Microwave Radiation can interfere with these devices.

* Prices are given as a guide only and do not include labour or VAT