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If your microwave stops heating, it’s usually a sign of a serious malfunction. In this practical tip, you’ll learn what might be causing the problem and what you can do about it.
Microwave Won’t Heat Anymore—Possible Causes
If your microwave no longer heats even though the light is on and the fan is running as soon as you turn it on, several components of the microwave may be defective.
- For example, there may be a faulty fuse inside the microwave. The problem could also be with the microwave generator or the capacitor.
- The causes of these defects can vary widely. Perhaps your appliance is simply very old. Just like the lifespan of a refrigerator, that of a microwave is also limited.
- However, such malfunctions can also result from improper use of the appliance. This includes, for example, turning on the microwave when it’s empty.
- You may have had something metallic, such as a piece of aluminum foil, inside the microwave when you turned it on.
- Metal in the microwave creates sparks and flashes. These, in turn, can cause feedback and result in a malfunction.
What to Do If Your Microwave Stops Heating
As described in the first section, this is not a malfunction or something you can fix yourself.
- To repair the microwave, you would have to open it up and troubleshoot the problem.
- Even if you’re very technically savvy, it’s not a good idea to take apart a microwave yourself. We advise against it. This is a job for a professional—specifically, an electrician.
- Even if you were able to identify and fix the problem, the microwave must be tested for leaks after reassembly. To do this, you’ll need a special device.
- If you really do want to repair the microwave, please leave the work described above to a professional—for your own sake.
- However, it will likely be cheaper to dispose of the broken microwave and buy a new one.
