If you have been having maintenance issues with one of your kitchen appliances, you may wonder how to disassemble a microwave. Even the best microwaves, after all, can wear down over time, necessitating an inspection of their internal components. Keep reading to learn more about disassembling microwave ovens.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- You will need a Philips head screwdriver, pliers, and insulated work gloves to complete this project.
- Be very careful as you disassemble a microwave and always make sure it is not plugged in, as a safety precaution.
- You should also exercise caution around the magnetron, as it can include dangerous chemicals.
Why Disassemble a Microwave?
If you are fairly handy and your microwave runs into some issues, you may want to disassemble it yourself instead of hiring a professional for microwave repair. Learning how to disassemble a microwave oven can be helpful when looking for what to do if your microwave’s light doesn’t work, in addition to other issues. Taking a microwave apart likely will not solve problems if you are wondering how to mute a microwave.
Insider Tip
If you are unsure of how to proceed with the process, be sure to check a Youtube tutorial or hand the project off to a professional.
How to Disseemble a Microwave
Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver with insulated handle, pliers with insulated handles, heavy-duty insulated working gloves
Taking a microwave apart is not too difficult but there are some big-time safety considerations, which will be detailed below.
STEP 1 Gather Your Tools
- Once gathering your tools, make sure the microwave is not plugged into a power outlet. Microwaves are high-voltage appliances and could be a danger if connected to a power source.
- Microwaves also can store energy even after being unplugged. It is for that reason you should make sure your tools and gloves are insulated.
STEP 2 Remove Screws and Casing
- Use the screwdriver to remove any screws you see around the outer shell of the microwave cabinet.
- Remove the outer casing, which should give you a clear view of the unit’s internal components.
STEP 3Remove the Transformer
- Next, find the transformer and look for any screws holding it in place.
- If the magnetron is connected to the transformer, unscrew the magnetron carefully before moving on to the transformer.
- Do not open up the magnetron or interact with it in any way (other than unscrewing it) as it could contain dangerous particles.
STEP 4 Strip the Rest
- Use the screwdriver and pliers to carefully strip the remaining components of the microwave.
- These components include an AC pole motor, a fan, a light bulb, voltage capacitors, capacitor terminals, a turntable motor, and various electronics. Though this will depend on various microwave designs.
F.A.Q.S
How can I identify a microwave oven problem?
It will depend on the problem, and some can be difficult to diagnose. Take a look at the internal electronics, looking for anything out of the ordinary.
What can go wrong with a microwave oven?
When it comes to microwave oven repair, a lot can go wrong. The turntable motor can fail, the magnetron can wear down, and the electronics can go haywire.
How does a microwave oven work?
A microwave uses a magnetron to release heated radio waves, also called microwaves, to cook food. Modern microwaves may also include vacuum tubes, ceramic magnets, and other components.
STAT: The exploitation of high-frequency radio waves for heating substances was made possible by the development of vacuum tube radio transmitters around 1920. (source)
