How to Troubleshoot a Hotpoint Microwave

Hotpoint microwave ovens can make quicker work of cooking than by using a conventional oven. They can also quickly defrost frozen food or heat food that's already cooked in a fraction of the time spent on traditional defrosting or warming. But even though Hotpoint microwaves typically are reliable appliances, there's always the possibility of a glitch in their operation. By performing some simple troubleshooting steps, you may be able to diagnose the problem and correct it.

Manufactured by General Electric, Hotpoint microwaves are available in countertop and over-the-range models. Models may have slightly different operating instructions and troubleshooting tips, so it's best to consult the user manual for model-specific guidelines. Many troubleshooting tips, however, apply to all models.

Some sights and sounds you may experience during the operation of your Hotpoint microwave may appear to indicate problems when, in fact, they're normal occurrences. Steam or vapor that escapes around the door is OK, and moisture that collects on the oven walls and door is also OK. When you're finished cooking, simply wipe off the moisture with a soft cloth or paper towel.

You may hear a normal thumping noise when the microwave is operating, particularly if the oven is in defrost mode or when the oven is operating at settings other than High. And you may also see the oven light dim or hear the blower make a different noise when the microwave is on settings other than High, both of which are normal.

If problems begin before you even use your microwave because it won't start, first check to make sure the power cord is firmly plugged into an electrical outlet. It may have wriggled free if it was bumped. The oven will not turn on unless the door is securely latched; open it and close it again to see if this corrects the problem.

If there was a recent power surge, you may need to unplug your microwave and plug it back in to reset it. You may also need to replace a fuse or turn a tripped circuit breaker back to the "on" position.

If the control panel is lighted but the oven won't start, check to make sure the door is securely closed and press "START." Press "CLEAR/OFF" to cancel another selection you may have previously entered. After pressing "TIME COOK," be sure to enter the desired cooking time.

If you're defrosting food instead of cooking it, don't forget to enter the food weight after selecting "AUTO DEFROST." If you've selected "COOK," "REHEAT" or "SNACKS," be sure you've entered a food type.

If the control panel is locked, you should see "LOC" or "CONTROL LOCKED" on the display, depending on the model of your microwave. Press and hold "CLEAR/OFF" (for "LOC" error code) or "CANCEL/OFF" (for "CONTROL LOCKED") error code for approximately three seconds to unlock the control panel.

Some problems may be diagnosed with the help of a multimeter. For example, if the turntable isn't turning, you can use a multimeter to test the motor that drives it for continuity. And if your Hotpoint microwave stops working after a few seconds, the problem may lie with a faulty door switch, which you can also test with a multimeter for continuity.

The door hook connects with the door latch to close the doors securely with the help of the door spring. If any of these components don't work and the door won't properly open or close, the microwave may not work. You'll have to replace these parts to restore the door to an operable condition and start your microwave working again.