How to Fix a Microwave Fuse
Electrical fuses are safety devices in microwaves that automatically cut off the flow of an electrical current if the current becomes too strong. Slamming the microwave door shut can easily blow the microwave fuse, but they can also blow due to problems with the interlock switches. A microwave oven will not function until the fuse is replaced. Although it is recommended that professionals handle fuse problems, you can change the fuse yourself by following directions carefully. You will need to locate the fuse, test it and then possibly replace it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Unplug the microwave from the electrical outlet to prevent electrocution. Place the microwave in a well-lit area to be able to locate the fuse.
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Use a screwdriver to remove the outer cabinet of the microwave, and follow the power cord to the fuse. The fuse is located 2 to 3 inches within the microwave and is attached to the power board.
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Observe the fuse to determine if it is blown. Blown glass fuses will produce burn marks on nearby surfaces, or the internal fuse wire will be black and melted, while ceramic fuses show no outward appearance of being blown.
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Determine if a ceramic fuse is blown by testing it with an ohmmeter. If the ohmmeter reads zero ohms, your fuse is not blown. Other readings on the ohmmeter show that your fuse is blown.
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Replace the blown fuse by popping it out of its holder, and snapping a new fuse in its place. Tighten the fuse clips by squeezing them together with your fingers.
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Replace the outer cabinet of the microwave, and plug the microwave back into the electrical outlet. Test the microwave to see if it's working properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not test the microwave without anything in it.
References
- Photo Credit microwave image by andrey polichenko from Fotolia.com
