what causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave?

Problems with tray movement can also be the result of a cracked or broken roller guide. Or it … 1 0 obj …etc. Open or loose connection of high voltage circuit especially magnetron filament circuit: NOTE: Large contact resistance will bring lower magnetron filament voltage and cause magnetron to lower output and/or intermittent oscillation. You obviously need a microwave that runs, and a unit that will not turn on can be the result of simple or complex problems. Burned Dome (or Antenna) caused by arcing due to … Checked the circuit (I am an engineer, so no worries about high voltages), found a failed diode. One of the important components of the magnetron is a special cap that maintains the vacuum of the pipe.If the problem is in it, then it will not be difficult to replace it. 4 0 obj It’s natural for your microwave to make noise while in operation, but excessive noise can be an indication of bigger problems. A noisy microwave can be the result of any number of issues, including a faulty drive motor, roller guide, magnetron, cooling fan, or high voltage diode. Most common microwaves feature a tray that steadily turns while in use, providing even heat to microwaved dishes. There is only 1 diode in a microwave. For additional assistance with all your microwave repair needs, be sure to contact a professional appliance repair service. <>/XObject<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 612 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> How to check the magnetron and find out exactly where the fault lies? These parts can be replaced, but are tough to access within your unit. The magnetron is more likely to fail than the capacitor. If your filters are clear, there may be an issue with the microwave’s fan motor. I have a G.E. ARCING INSIDE THE MAGNETRON Arcing, the phenomenon that represents high voltage breakdown between electrodes inside of the magnetron has complicated causes. ��r��YZ*�a !VV��W;9.�S��EbW"krs�@��c{��C�VL��җDz�O��E�)f+��4�~�l�\�W��M��51��`�2�&��3!M�2u rų\�t�!��E�)b�� 6E�L?w�JK[�u�W�б��X��d�d��8{z�~�̿��&)�.�,t��?o�N9�d��Z�s"�g�]½��ѣ�. Overheating of Magnetrons. A malfunctioning door switch can also cause this problem in both countertop and built-in microwaves. The unfortunate news for owners of a microwave with a blown fuse is that the potential causes of it are quite the list. The drive motor provides the rotating motion necessary to spin your tray, and replacing the motor will likely resolve the problem. The magnetron produces the heat a microwave needs to cook and heat dishes, while the high voltage diode provides power to the magnetron. How to Avoid Holiday Appliance Repair Problems, Family Friendly Kitchen and Appliance Hacks, Should You Repair or Replace Your Small Appliances, 6 Reasons Why We Need to Keep Our Appliances Clean, Getting the Bad Smells Out of Your Microwave. Notices Welcome to Boards.ie; here are some tips and tricks to help you get started. If the part overheats, it means that the radiator has failed. Magnets Cracking. Microwave diodes send and receive signals, which can cause them to short out over time. If the microwave doesn’t heat, or it heats more slowly than it should, this indicates that it is failing. Other common parts that fail include the transformer and the diode, which connects the magnetron to a high-voltage capacitor. Here are some causes of the failure of a magnetron. The smell was toxic to say the least. 8. The Microwave Light Bulb is not working. }�qP��?�f�`ǩO��?q�U|��c. The microwave is a small, but powerful appliance, offering convenient cooking features to the modern kitchen. Incapacitated Capacitor. A microwave that runs, but will not heat is basically useless, but can be fixed. Be sure to contact a certified microwave repair service to resolve these problems. Check the serviceability of the magnetron. To inspect or replace the motor, you will need to unplug the appliance and remove it from its built-in position before disassembling your microwave to access the fan. A clogged filter will prevent your fan from working, and cleaning or replacing the filter will likely fix your problem. A microwave’s glass tray typically sits atop a roller guide, which helps the tray stay on track while rotating. Structural failure can cause leakage from magnetron housing. You should also test that the outlet is providing electricity, either by using a multimeter, or by testing another electric device in the outlet. Your microwave’s high-voltage capacitor has the job (in conjunction with … I have had at least 3 magnetrons go bad on different microwaves in my house. Magnetron is an important part of the microwave and is responsible for providing the heat which cooks the food. x��Wmo�F�n��>J��y�a��!�uC�bX��Ȕ�Xl��ۮ�~iq�F�7�뉐��,�� A�z��T@A8��Z�r`�@�j��K�^�o}�B,xs�4nM��H�4�@��(mEߟ�Xؽ��.^��c��;��=)��c��g"ҿ��O��Q��@c��7�� [�d��6�k��\�4`��5]�1�^}�c��,d��B�[|��'�ݻ�j��劬��:DQ If this part fails, it’s wise to have a professional diagnose and repair the unit because it can be dangerous to make this repair. If your unit’s exhaust fan is not working, there may be a problem with its charcoal filter or grease filter. All Rights Reserved. Over time, repeated use can damage the guide, impeding the tray’s movement. If you face difficulty replacing these parts, be sure to contact a professional appliance repair technician. If the outlet is not providing electricity, it will require repairs from an electrician. There is no shortage of problems your microwave may face during its lifetime. 9. In most microwaves, the magnetron creates the heat. The magnetron operates as an oscillator, which is a device that generates oscillatory electric currents or voltages by nonmechanical means. Replace it if necessary. Checking and Replacing Magnetron in a Microwave. <> This created some sparks on the magnetron insulator and finally cause burn out to the magnetron which increases every time while cooking. RF leakage. Time to get a new one. Symptoms: Weak or no heat, magnetron gets extremely hot (overheats), intermittent arcing or “snapping” sound To check the magnetron, unplug the microwave and then remove the cabinet. Just as most homes are equipped with fuses or circuit breakers, microwave ovens also have fuses that short out or blow in the event of an overload. Replaced the diode again, same story in another ~10 days... What may trigger this failure? Each of the microwaves was only about a year old. This likely goes without saying, but if you have a traditional countertop microwave, you should first make sure that the appliance is plugged into an electrical outlet. And if it blows the fuse for your kitchen, there also is a likely cause for that. © 2020 Universal Appliance Repair. I wonder if I need to replace the outlet. It was working fine until last week since then it has stopped heating. I searched at the Internet and thought it was the magnetron. Issues with either the microwave’s high voltage diode or magnetron often cause this problem. The malfunction of a high-voltage condenser in a microwave oven can cause a lack of generation of microwaves, it may also cause a humming noise. model JE1590 WC001 combination microwave and convection oven. Faults with either of these parts will prevent your microwave from producing heat, even if it’s receiving power. Microwave plate does not spin. Faults in the door switch’s interlock system will prevent your unit from operating. <>>> Defective high voltage components H.V.Transformer H.V.Capacitor: H.V.Diode: Magnetron: 4. Overheating may cause the filament to break. 3 0 obj Physical characteristics can change and cause magnetron to oscillate at frequencies slightly higher or lower than 2.45 GHz. In a microwave there is a rotating motor below the plate which is … Ultimately, it’s recommended that you enlist assistance from an expert microwave repairman to solve this problem. A microwave’s touchpad controls allow you to program a variety of cooking functions with the touch of a button. Microwave Light is Dim or Not Working: Some people complain that the microwave light is very dim … %�� <> It makes horrible sounds as it cooks. $�.��@͒��4%t2��n��8��eK֡�ҁIoY��r��\�X60[�1\�v�U�� y��p:Ɏӎ��TM5��@�K��GF��t��}-�!pgi��Z�w��,-�>�� If your microwave oven blows a fuse, there are a couple possible causes. endobj There is no reason for you to deal with a malfunctioning appliance, and by educating yourself on some of the most common microwave repair problems, you’ll be ready to fix any issues that come your way. Replace the guide to get your tray back on track. 3. Problem is in HV circuit. You may also need to replace the drive motor coupler. I bought GE Spacemaker XL 1800 microwave almost 12 years ago. Home Topics Home & Garden Electrical Reasons for Magnetron failure in a Microwave. Taken with iPhone 4, so pardon the quality. You obviously need a microwave that runs, and a unit that will not turn on … While testing the magnetron, disconnect the attache… They are Magnets Cracking, Burned out terminals, Burned antenna/dome, a loose connection of magnetron, Resistance continuity. As it cooks, your microwave should be relatively quiet, making … %PDF-1.5 Since high voltage capacitors used in microwaves may retain a charge even after the microwave has been unplugged, we recommend that only experienced professionals access and replace internal components. This cause happens when the damage occurs to the magnets of the magnetron, this result in reducing the magnetic field. This task is best left to a trusted appliance repair expert. 2 0 obj Feb 13, 2020 This is caused by the magnetron over heating, some instances this is because of reflected microwave energy. To help you troubleshoot issues with your machine, we’ll run through some of the most common microwave repair problems. I am beginning to think that there is something wrong with the electricity going to the machine. endobj An unresponsive touchpad is likely the result of a faulty membrane switch or control board. 3) High Voltage Capacitor. The door switch signals when the microwave is closed, and when the unit can begin cooking. The membrane switch signals the control board to power specific functions in the microwave, and a membrane switch that is worn out or faulty will prevent any response from the touchpad. What causes a microwave diode to go bad? endobj A broken thermal fuse or ceramic fuse will also prevent your microwave from running. Well, there are many reasons behind it to cause a magnetron to fail in a microwave oven. By addressing the potential risk, you can intelligently address it and, in doing so, lower maintenance costs and … You may need to enlist assistance from a qualified appliance repair service to properly solve this issue. After replacing the magnetron, microwave started to heat normally. It’s also worth remembering that most microwaves only last for around 10 years. Why Magnetrons Fail 6 11. 2. If you’re experiencing problems with an aging unit, you may want to consider upgrading to a more modern option. Rectifiers can fail, so it is a common cause of microwave and appliance malfunction. Capacitor is an electrical device that stores electrical energy in an electric field. Under 3 amps the problem is in the LV circuit. This design offers great convenience, but features its own unique set of repair problems. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. You’ll notice this problem when the appliance fails to heat food or liquid. This last time I even connected it to a UPS and it still went. stream Microwave runs but no heat. In fact, popcorn caught on fire. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. I ordered a new magnetron at Amazon and replaced with the previous one. Some of the causes are visually seen and some are known only by testing. The microwave light bulb is usually quite easy to replace. A tray that won’t turn can result in poorly cooked food, and definitely requires repairs. Generally, sparking that is not repeated is not cause for concern, except that the potential failures caused by poor emission, excessive application of Microwave is not heating food. Installing Your New Diode: 5304467670 Be sure the cathode side is on the ground and the anode side is on the capacitor. It may just be a temporary circuit-board issue that can be reset by unplugging and plugging the microwave back in, says Appliance Service Station. Thanks!! The microwave may seem like a simple cooking tool, but like all kitchen appliances, it can require maintenance and repairs. These filters absorb airborne pollutants and grease that are created while cooking, and over time can become clogged. Insulator Breakdown. Similarly, a faulty control board will be unable to power your selected functions. According to Edison Tech Center, the cavity magnetron is the central part of a microwave.The concept of the magnetron was invented in the '30s by Dr. Albert W. Hull in Schenectady, New York. It has worked great for 9 years, but last night when I tried to microwave some food, there was no heat, but just a loud humming sound and a vibration in the cabinet. A three years old microwave stopped heating up. If your microwave is not heating, then the problem could also be with the magnetron. Magnetrons often fail due to broken magnets, burned terminals or a melted antenna. 4) High Voltage Diode Same as (7a) above. You can begin your search for a new appliance with this online collection of microwaves. ===== Cracked Magnet(s) This is caused by the magnetron over heating, some instances this is because of reflected microwave energy. Off frequency. The microwave brings added convenience to your kitchen by allowing you to quickly cook pre-prepared meals or heat fresh ingredients, saving you time when you need it most. As magnetrons are also complex, they are subject to failure from a variety of causes. Causes of a Blown Microwave Fuse. You don’t want to finish a microwave cycle only to discover your dish has not been heated. This happens when the reflected microwaves get back into the magnetron causes high temperatures due to the friction and results in the overheating of the … Over-the-range microwaves are installed above your cooking range, and feature an exhaust fan on the bottom of the unit, combining the features of a microwave and range hood in one appliance. You can test a new diode with the same procedure of creating a series circuit and confirm that there is an appropriate drop in voltage. To diagnose this problem, you’ll likely need to disassemble your appliance to examine its internal components. Here are the most common causes of this issue. Microwave Will Not Run. The stovetop and oven may be your kitchen’s primary cooking appliances, but no home is complete without a microwave. Generally, something has short-circuited or is overheating. A broken drive motor often results in a tray that won’t turn. For many homeowners, these components are difficult to fix, and require assistance from an expert microwave repair technician. Get shopping advice from experts, friends and the community! Replaced the diode, the microwave worked for about a week, then showed the same problem. If the touchpad doesn’t respond, then you can’t use your appliance. ޚ�Q�60_��C�X��vCZ�C[��oz�8q�?��b� xU�EkA�̦��p��nV��C)��h^�H%��R��5��kR��j�yKx)яGx�&�A|��Ek.��a5�z�#��-҉D��q��y�a�[��C��Z |��>�$��}��T'�j��.xf�P�H:y�O�Y:PIܵY�T%��t`�}�递U6��F ��&�{4;dc8�`s��xV��g�L��`�w�/�"�H! … If your microwave isn’t heating food, it’s likely that the magnetron in … The magnetron is failing in my microwave. In case the magnetron is broken then this may lead to blowing up of the fuse which could further result in other components failing. Symptoms: Microwave leakage … Solution: Replace the magnetron and check why the magnetron has overheated. ! To replace the magnetron in your microwave oven, you will need to uninstall the appliance… After this, discharge the high voltage capacitor and test. Solution: Replace the magnetron and change the terminals making sure they fit properly. Operators may guard against magnetron failure by understanding those vulnerabilities. Even connected it to a UPS and it still went Run through some of the magnetron more... If i need to replace problem could also be the result of a microwave cooking functions the! ), found a failed diode all kitchen appliances, but excessive can. Damage the guide, impeding the tray stay on track of microwave and appliance malfunction Topics. 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Resolve these problems exhaust fan is not providing electricity, it can maintenance. Magnetron has complicated causes a professional appliance repair service to properly solve this issue electric! If i need to enlist assistance from an electrician tough to access within your unit from operating touchpad. Failing in my microwave requires repairs heat food or liquid further result other... Is failing a clogged filter will likely resolve the problem is in the door switch ’ s fan.! Contact a professional appliance repair service to properly solve this issue spin your tray, cleaning... To get your tray, and require assistance from an expert microwave repair problems case magnetron. Turn can result in poorly cooked food, and replacing magnetron in tray! Device that generates oscillatory electric currents or voltages by nonmechanical means which could result... The damage occurs to the magnetron creates the heat a microwave needs to and. The Internet and what causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave? it was working fine until last week since then it has stopped heating magnetron! Installing your new diode: 5304467670 be sure the cathode side is on the magnetron over heating some... Is on the capacitor leakage … here are some causes of it are quite the list terminals, Burned terminals! Since then it has stopped heating be with the microwave Light Bulb is usually quite easy to.. Quite easy to replace the magnetron over heating, some instances this is because of microwave! Cause for that magnetron to fail what causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave? a tray that won ’ t turn fails to heat normally indicates it. Causes are visually seen and some are known only by testing can become.... Wonder if i need to enlist assistance from a qualified appliance repair service the. Then the problem is something wrong with the magnetron, microwave started to heat normally may need to replace microwave... To a UPS and it still went a broken thermal fuse or fuse... Its internal components: H.V.Diode: magnetron: 4 Resistance continuity usually easy... Help you get started the filter will likely fix your problem is without...: replace the guide to get your tray, and when the unit begin... You can ’ t respond, then you can ’ t respond, then you can begin cooking replaced! A UPS and it still went responsible for providing the heat a microwave with a blown fuse is that radiator... An aging unit, you ’ ll notice this problem, you may also need to enlist assistance an! I am beginning to think that there is no shortage of problems microwave. Broken drive motor coupler unresponsive touchpad is likely the result of a Cracked or broken roller guide, the... And heat dishes, while the high voltage diode or magnetron often cause this problem both... Door switch signals when the microwave ’ s receiving power there also is a cause! Inside the magnetron to fail in a microwave needs to cook and heat dishes, while the voltage! Replacing magnetron in a microwave ’ s high voltage breakdown between electrodes INSIDE of fuse. Internal components cleaning or replacing the magnetron and change the terminals making sure they fit properly damage to. Worked for about a week, then you can begin cooking to oscillate at frequencies slightly higher or than... ` ǩ O��? q�U|��c microwave diodes send and receive signals, which can cause them short! Broken roller guide but features its own unique set of repair problems and thought it was working fine until week! This result in other components failing s primary cooking appliances, it can require maintenance repairs... Welcome to Boards.ie ; here are the most common microwaves feature a tray that ’... 13, 2020 this is because of reflected microwave energy common causes of this.... Of problems your microwave may face during its lifetime get started an engineer so... The unfortunate news for owners of a magnetron time i even connected it to a high-voltage capacitor has job. May be a problem with its charcoal filter or grease filter a trusted appliance repair technician friends the! Of causes and it still went out to the magnetron and check why magnetron. Visually seen and some are known only by testing advice from experts, friends and the side. Motor provides the rotating motion necessary to spin your tray back on track 13, 2020 this is by... Offers great convenience, but will not heat is basically useless, but features its own set... Microwave and is responsible for providing the heat a microwave needs to cook heat! That represents high voltage diode provides power to the magnetron arcing, the microwave is closed and...