How to Troubleshoot Microwave Ovens

In this day and age, our microwave ovens are one of the most useful appliances in our homes. It's become natural to use them to "nuke" meals, defrost meat and to prep ingredients for recipes. When something happens to them and they're not working properly, it can really put a kink in our food preparation plans. It's relatively easy to troubleshoot simple microwave oven problems and get things to running smoothly again.

Instructions

1. Check to see if your microwave oven is receiving power. Test the outlet by plugging in another appliance and turning it on. Or, you can use an electrical testing device to determine if the outlet is putting out full power.

2. Read the troubleshooting tips in your owner's manual. Often simple information about easy fixes is available here. If you don't have your owner's manual anymore, you can contact the manufacturer and request a copy. Additionally, many appliance parts stores carry manuals.

3. Use your microwave properly. For instance, if your food is cooking the way you think it ought to, check your settings. If power is set at 50 percent, your food will not be cooking correctly. Check the settings you're cooking at and make adjustments.

4. Take your microwave to a licensed repair service provider. Microwave ovens are very high voltage appliances. Any major repairs should be done by a professional. Electrocution or severe shock could be experienced otherwise.

Tips & Warnings

• Often, it's simple things that cause home appliances to not work correctly. Always check your settings before assuming major repair work needs to be completed.

• Microwaves are extremely high voltage appliances. Always make sure the power is off and the appliance is not plugged in before starting work.