This is caused by the magnetron over heating, some instances this is because of reflected microwave energy. Solution: Replace the magnetron and check why the magnetron has overheated. Burnt or melted antenna cap. Burned Dome (or Antenna) caused by arcing due to reflected microwave energy {back feeding}.
What causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave?
Most popular reason behind this issue is magnetron failure. A magnetron uses high voltage to produce microwave frequency to cook food. If the microwave is turned on when it is empty, this cause the magnetron to burn out. A burned magnetron has to be replaced as it cannot be repaired.
Why would a magnetron go bad?
There are a lot of reasons why a magnetron can fail in a microwave oven. Magnets Cracking, Burned out terminals, Burned antenna/dome, a loose connection of magnetron, Resistance continuity are some of the things.
Is it worth replacing a magnetron in a microwave?
No matter how new your microwave or if there’s only one problem, if the magnetron is out then you might as well replace the entire appliance. The magnetron is the heart of a microwave that actually makes the micro-waves. Replacing it is about equal to the cost of buying a whole new microwave, sometimes even greater.
How long should a microwave magnetron last?
2000 hours
The average life of a microwave magnetron tube is 2000 hours. It’s possible to cook and heat food in a microwave oven for 2,000 hours before the oven loses power.
Why is my microwave not heating food?
A microwave that doesn’t heat may also have a broken magnetron. The magnetron is responsible for heat production within the appliance, and a malfunctioning magnetron could blow a fuse, ultimately causing other functions of the microwave to fail.
Does a magnetron wear out?
A magnetron tube may wear out and need to be replaced approximately every two thousand to eight thousand hours.
How much is a microwave magnetron?
Microwave Magnetron Replacement Cost
Replacing a microwave magnetron costs $100 to $200. This includes a part price of $50 to $100 and $50 to $100 for labor.
Is it cheaper to repair a microwave or buy a new one?
Consider a replacement if you have a basic model that can cost as little as $60. On the other hand, an expensive model with special features or a mounted microwave might be worth repairing. High-end microwave models can run from $500 to $1,000, so repairing these devices is often cheaper than replacing them.
What brand of microwave lasts the longest?
Models with a smaller footprint tend to be underpowered and usually don’t perform as well in our tests. Microwaves from Breville, Hamilton Beach, Insignia, LG, Proctor-Silex, and Signature Kitchen Suite stand out as the most reliable brands; all six brands earn an Excellent rating.
Can you test a microwave magnetron?
Take a resistance measurement between each of the magnetron’s terminals by touching each probe to one terminal each. Reverse the probes and take a second resistance measurement. Each measurement should read less than one ohm. TEST 2: Set your ohmmeter to its highest resistance scale.
Do microwaves lose their power over time?
A microwave oven’s power diminishes over time because its magnetron tube weakens.As the magnetron tube becomes weaker and less effective, the microwave oven becomes less powerful. If you notice the door of the microwave does not seal properly than this is a clear sign to replace your microwave oven.
How do I know if my magnetron is working?
Look for an open line reading to see if the magnetron works properly. Read the screen on the multimeter to find your reading. If it says “OL” or “Open Line”, then the magnetron works properly! If you register any other reading, then replace the magnetron.
Can a magnetron test good and still be bad?
Sometimes, when you’re troubleshooting a microwave, it can be tricky to tell whether or not the magnetron tube is bad. In the case with many GE microwaves, the magnetron can test good according to the filament resistance specifications yet fail when you’re actually trying to get the damn thing to heat up your bagel.
How long should a microwave last?
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, and even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat up snacks and leftovers, or to defrost meals.
Why is my microwave making a noise?
A microwave making noise is also an indication that there is a problem with the microwave magnetron.If the magnetron is defective, it may cause a loud buzzing noise, which indicates that the magnetron is nearing the end of its life or might be defective.
How do you know when its time to get a new microwave?
6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Microwave
- Smoke, sparks, and burning smells. These are signs of a serious and urgent problem.
- Food isn’t cooking properly.
- It makes horrible sounds as it cooks.
- The door doesn’t seal properly.
- The keypad doesn’t function.
- It’s over 10 years old.
Can you fix a microwave magnetron?
Smaller components like a fuse or door interlock switch are usually worth replacing, however. The cost of replacing a magnetron is usually as much or even more than the cost of buying a new microwave, which makes it an impractical option instead of replacing the whole oven, most of the time.
Contents