Microwave repair at home

If your microwave has ordered a long life, the main thing is not to panic, because part of the problems can be solved at home. Consider how to diagnose a problem, as well as repair the device. Repair of microwave ovens at home, for example Samsung, LG, Daewoo, Panasonic and other popular brands, will differ only in small details, since the device and the principle of operation are the same for them. The first thing to do is understand the device.

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Principle of operation

In general, the device can be described in the following details:

• light bulb for lighting;
• ventilation;
• magnetron;
• antenna;
• waveguide;
• capacitor;
• transformer;
• control Panel;
• drive unit;
• rotating stand;
• cage with rollers;
• door latch.

Why do we need all these details?

• Magnetron microwave - This is the part that makes the microwave microwave. It creates microwave energy, and allows food to heat up in seconds
  Transformer with a winding - receives electricity through the winding, converts it and powers the magnetron.
• Waveguide - connects the camera and magnetron.
• Winding - necessary to connect electricity to the device.
• The microwave uses double voltage, so any food heats up very quickly. To increase the voltage, a capacitor is installed in it, and a rectifying diode is connected to it.
• A timer with gears allows you to control the cooking time.
• To control the temperature, a special sensor is also installed.
• Since the microwave is very dangerous during improper use, it is equipped with a protection system. These are power protection relays and phases that stop the operation of the device when a power surge or door is opened.

Next, we’ll talk about frequent breakdowns and the possible repair of microwaves at home.

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What could break?

The main problems that concern microwave users and which require repair of microwaves at home, based on reviews from the network, are as follows.

Sparks

If sparks appear during operation of the device, it is destroyed microwave mica or covering the door of the device. Sparks may also occur due to damage to the magnetron shield.

In any case, if you see that the device is sparking, unplug it from the network and contact a service center for help.

Important! Any use of a defective microwave is prohibited, as it can lead to injury and even death.

The device turns on, but the food does not heat up

Lack of heating can occur due to power surges or if a fuse blows. Also, this problem is associated with a breakdown of the magnetron. In more detail about the causes of this failure and how to eliminate it, we described in our separate review “The microwave does not heat, but it works - what should I do?”

Heats products for a long time

This is a signal that the magnetron is in poor condition, it will soon need to be replaced.

The device does not turn on

There are many options:

• Perhaps something happened to the cable - check it for serviceability.
• Also, the device can independently block the inclusion, if there has been a breakdown of the door microswitches. Therefore, after the cable, believe the door.
• Another possible reason is a malfunction in the temperature sensor.

Important! Only after identifying the exact cause of the malfunction, it is possible to repair the microwaves - at home or in a service center, will depend on the degree of complexity of the proposed work.

The plate is not spinning

Everything is simpler here: the problem is probably the microwave plate motor.

Buzz during work

If a hum is heard during the operation of the device, check whether the transformer and the fan of the device are working.

The keyboard does not work

It is necessary to fully check whether the control board is working.It is possible that the contacts burned out in it or the microcontroller has departed.

After diagnosing the main problems, you can proceed to the repair work.

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Repairs

If you decide to repair microwave ovens at home, you will have to disassemble the device. This type of work involves several steps.

We disassemble the microwave:

1. Remove the back cover (casing) by unscrewing the bolts with a Phillips screwdriver.
2. Further details are removed by simply clicking on them. Remember that electronics are connected via terminals, which must also be removed.
3. Be sure to follow safety precautions, and if the device is still under warranty, then after self-repair, the manufacturer voids all warranty obligations.

We will analyze common faults and how to solve them.

Burned magnetron

Let's say you need a Samsung microwave repair, the problem of which was the appearance of sparks during cooking, or the magnetron burned out in it.

Steps:

1. Inspect the panel and door for chips.
2. Disassemble the microwave - with enamel chips, the stove will definitely spark and smoke.
3. If everything is in order with enamel, it is necessary to remove the magnetron. The part is attached to the housing with four screws and connected by a terminal. Disconnect the screws and terminal, and remove the magnetron. If it breaks, you will also have to remove the transformer and waveguide.
4. Inspect all parts for damage - they may carbonize or crack. If necessary, replace them with new ones.
5. After replacement, the device is assembled in the reverse order of disassembly, and checked.

The same should be done for other malfunctions: damaged parts are replaced with new ones.

Blown fuse

This is a small glass cylinder with a spring and wire inside it. With a strong voltage, the wire blows and the fuse blows. The whole structure is protected by a plastic sleeve.

To check the fuse, it is necessary to inspect it by removing the plastic protection. If the spring is extended, the fuse must be replaced.

The oven does not turn off

This failure is possible when the voltage relay is not working, since it is the relay that is responsible for turning off the current supply. At the same time, the cause is most often stuck contacts.

Steps:

1. Disassemble the microwave, remove the relay.
2. Ring the relay for breaks. If they are found - the relay must be replaced.
3. If there is no gap, clean the contacts. Over time, they can be damaged by moisture and splashes of fat. Also, this malfunction may occur if the microwave is turned on empty.
4. At the end of the repair work, the device is assembled and run for inspection.

Important! If you have trouble repairing or are afraid of damaging the device, seek professional help.

The plate is not spinning

The cause of this malfunction is in the plate motor. Possibly clogged contacts.

Check all connections:

1. Disassemble the device.
2. Remove the pan.
3. Clean all wire contacts.
4. Put all the parts in place, check the operability of the device.

Important! Remember to take care of the microwave and wash it in a timely manner. We will tell you how to clean the microwave inside of fat.

Buzz in the microwave

To make repairs, it is necessary to find out what exactly causes a buzz. The most common failures are breakdowns of the fan and transformer:

• With a fan, everything is much simpler - it can be repaired and replaced, in addition, it happens that it buzzes from overheating of the device. Then you don’t even have to change it. Simply move the microwave away from the wall and clean the fan.
• The transformer is inextricably linked with the waveguide and magnetron, so you have to disconnect them together.

As in other cases, the broken parts are replaced with new analogues.

Important! Did you manage to repair the stove? Then it's time to treat yourself to something tasty. The best recipes you will find in the post. “What can I cook in the microwave?”

And if you decide that it is better to purchase a new one, then check out our microwave rated.

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Safety precautions

If you need to repair the microwave at home, then most often, this means that it was used incorrectly. Of course, there are defects in the manufacturer, but usually they appear during the warranty period.

Highlights:

1. When working with the microwave, be sure to disconnect it from the power supply.
2. In case of any damage, operation of the device is prohibited until they are repaired.
3. Do not turn on the appliance with the door open.
4. It is forbidden to turn on the magnetron removed from the device. This can be fatal.
5. Using a device with a broken fan may damage the magnetron.
6. Before repair, the capacitor must also be discharged.
7. If it is necessary to replace a part, use only their analogues.
8. When repairing a waveguide, be sure to clean it.
9. Do not turn on the device blank. Be sure to put something in the camera, or put a glass of water.

Important! To easily assemble the device in its original state, you can use the camera or phone, and photograph each step of the disassembly process.

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Stock footage

If you have any difficulties at any stage - contact the service center. Otherwise, with small breakdowns, repairing a microwave at home for a person who understands the device of electrical appliances will not be a problem.