Even if you have the best microwave, it may need some maintenance at some point. For example, if your microwave will not turn on, chances are you need to replace a blown fuse. Luckily, installing a replacement fuse is one of the most common microwave repairs. That said, common repairs for microwave ovens still carry a serious risk of getting shocked by the electrical components. Follow our repair guide, and we’ll show you how to replace the fuse in your microwave.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- A microwave oven fuse replacement is one of the most common appliance repairs.
- Once your microwave top grill and control panel are removed, you should see the fuse.
- A fuse simply pops in and out, but you need an exact match for your model of microwave.
If you’re wondering why your microwave keeps turning off, a bad fuse might be to blame. Unfortunately, when you perform a fuse replacement, your new fuse must match the original fuse. So, if you cannot find the correct fuse locally, contact your microwave manufacturer for a replacement.
Insider Tip
Unplug your microwave to avoid a power surge while using your metal screwdriver blade. You may suffer a lethal charge if you do not.
How to Replace Microwave Fuses
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, rubberized safety gloves, spare fuse
STEP 1 Prepare
- Make sure to order the correct type of fuse for your replacement. Using the wrong type of fuse in a microwave will lead to more issues. In addition, make sure to have microwave-safe tools before you begin.
- If you have safety concerns about replacing a fuse for microwave repair, contact an appliance repair schedule service. There are dangerous amounts of electricity in some parts of the microwave that will hurt inexperienced repair people.
STEP 2 Disassemble the Microwave
- Remove your microwave’s power source. Unplug the power cord and switch your circuit breaker off for extra-safe operation if you own a range microwave model. Wait for at least 30 minutes to begin disassembly.
- Locate the screws on the top of the microwave. Unscrew these to remove the grill. Next, unhook any plastic tabs, slide the grill away, and place it in a safe place with the screws you removed.
- Locate the screws on the side of the control panel and remove them. Once they are gone, you can pull the control panel away. Do not unplug any wires from the panel, but set it aside in an upright position. You should now see the fuse.
STEP 3 Replace the Fuse
- There are different fuses in a microwave oven. The primary type of fuse is a glass fuse, but you may need to replace a thermal or ceramic fuse. In addition, the fuse locations can differ, so make sure you aren’t looking at the wrong fuse.
- Remove the original fuse from the fuse holder. It should come out quickly, but you can use your screwdriver or a fuse puller to pry it out.
- Take your new fuse and place it in the fuse block. It should go in easily, so do not force it.
STEP 4 Reassemble the Microwave
- Follow the steps for taking apart the microwave but in reverse.
- Test your microwave, but not until it is fully reassembled.
Warning
Do not touch the high-voltage capacitor or any other microwave component you do not understand.
F.A.Q.S
Will a microwave turn on if the fuse is blown?
If it is a ceramic fuse, your microwave will not turn on. If your thermal fuse is blown, your microwave will shut off if you try to cook. So, you may see a digital display, but a blown fuse makes a microwave useless.
How much does it cost to replace a microwave fuse?
It should only cost between $50 and $100 to have a fuse replaced. A blown fuse is a standard electrical fault that should be easy to repair for professionals.
Is it worth fixing a microwave?
Yes, you should fix your microwave if it is five years old or newer. That said, never invest in repairs that cost more than a new countertop model.
STAT: In a US Department of Energy survey, 11 percent of respondents reported owning two or more countertop microwave ovens. (source)
