How do you diagnose a magnetron?

Set your ohmmeter to the lowest resistance scale. 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.

Why does my microwave magnetron fail?

Well, there are many reasons behind it to cause a magnetron to fail in a microwave oven. They are Magnets Cracking, Burned out terminals, Burned antenna/dome, a loose connection of magnetron, Resistance continuity. … etc. Some of the causes are visually seen and some are known only by testing.

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.

Why is my microwave running but not heating?

If the microwave is running but not heating your food, another possibility is the diode has burnt out. A diode allows the electrical current to flow in only one direction. If the diode fails, it could mean there is a short, which will allow the current to flow in both directions, or only part way in one direction.

Why a microwave stops heating?

If your microwave oven doesn’t heat, you may have a problem with the magnetron. This component is part of the high voltage circuit and provides the microwaves that generate the heat. If the magnetron is defective, the unit may blow a fuse, or you may still have all other functions operating normally.

Is it worth fixing a microwave?

Some experts say it’s not worth repairing a malfunctioning countertop microwave because the average cost of repairs runs about $70–$100 not including parts—about half the cost of a good-quality new one.

How much does it cost to replace a magnetron in a microwave?

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. A magnetron is the primary component that produces heat for the appliance.

Can you fix a microwave that doesn’t heat?

If your microwave oven doesn’t heat, you may have a problem with the magnetron. This component is part of the high voltage circuit and provides the microwaves that generate the heat. If there is no continuity, then the magnetron will need to be replaced.

How to test a microwave magnetron you microwave oven repair?

If you receive results other than what are detailed below, you will have to replace your microwave’s magnetron. Each test is described for you here: TEST 1: Locate your magnetron and label each of the wires attached to it so that you know which wires are to be replaced where. Set your ohmmeter to the lowest resistance scale.

Do you have to discharge a magnetron in a microwave?

That’s why you must do the microwave capacitor discharge test before examining the microwave magnetron. To release the capacitor, you have to create a short circuit between each of the two capacitor terminals and the terminal and the chassis. According to Easy Appliance Parts, the chassis is the bare metal surface of the capacitor.

What to do if you have a problem with your microwave?

However, the most likely problems are in the microwave generator. An ohmmeter can be safely used to quickly determine if the capacitor, HV diode, or magnetron are a dead short (as well as for an open magnetron filament). Use an ohmmeter to test the diode and capacitor.

How do you test the voltage of a microwave battery?

BE SURE TO UNPLUG MICROWAVE AND DISCHARGE CAPACITOR BEFORE WORKING ON ANY ELECTRICAL COMPONENT. Get a nine-volt battery and insert the readers of your voltmeter as a standard. Then use gator clips to put the diode in a series circuit with the battery to test the voltage.